Question: I live in an area that is steeped in tradition and religiosity, and people tend to think I’m a bit strange since I believe there is a spiritual element in everything around us, especially Halloween. It seems that a lot of bad things occur around October 31st and I am wondering if Satan and his demonic forces have a stronger influence during this season?
Before addressing the spiritual aspects of Halloween, let’s consider the impact it has had on our country and our culture. Halloween has become the second most celebrated and decorated holiday of the year—second only to Christmas.
Total spending on Halloween this year will reach $7.4 billion.
$2.8 billion will be spent on costumes overall.
$1.1 billion on children’s costumes and $1.4 billion on adult costumes.
Americans will spend $350 million on costumes for their furry friends.
Consumers will spend $2.2 billion on candy this year.
$2 billion on decorations for the frightful holiday.
Throwing or attending a party (33.4%— up from 30.9% last year).
These statistics from NRF are staggering. Each year participation in the celebration of Halloween grows. It has mushroomed far beyond the in-school Halloween dress-up parties and the evening activity of trick-or-treating door-to-door. Halloween now begins early in October with indoor and outdoor decorations as well as parties and activities, much like the month-long festivities of Advent that lead up to Christmas.
The question before us is whether Satan and his demonic forces have a stronger influence during Halloween? I suggest that Satan does have a stronger influence at this time because people give attention (money and time) to the dark side of our world. Satan’s strategies at Halloween are to tempt people to celebrate evil, death, and darkness. I believe Satan delights in his greater influence during Halloween.
While Halloween can be celebrated in a fun, safe, and faithful-to-God manner, there is a spiritual dark side to this day and Christians must be cautious.
Remember that celebrating or not celebrating Halloween should never be used to create division, or even disharmony, among brothers and sisters in Christ. We should warn Christians who “cross-the-line” into the darkness of Halloween about the dangers of it, but always do so with kindness and love. Encourage them to remember that they represent the Lord Jesus Christ in all that they say and do (Ephesians 5:1-2)…even on Halloween! Remind them how easy it is to be influenced by others who walk in darkness.
Many Christians choose to celebrate Halloween in a traditional but without costumes that depict evil. Other Christians use Halloween as an opportunity to hand out tracts, along with candy, to the trick-or-treaters (check out our Halloween tracts). Still, other Christians have alternative events such as harvest festivals.
However you choose to celebrate, be discerning in how you do so. And, be cautious of Satan’s greater influence at this time of year.
Satan might have stronger influence at Halloween, but he has NO power over God’s children!
Where did the sin of Lucifer come from?
How Does Satan Attach Christians? What are His Big Three Schemes?