This prophetic teaching is submitted by Jana Alcorn (JAlcorn@aol.com)

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[Moderator's note: Usually we circulate prophecies on this list. But occasionally at the Lord's direction, we circulate a prophetic teaching. We believe that this teaching from Jana Alcorn is also from the heart of God and that He is speaking this to many in His church today.]

WHEN LITTLE PYTHON GROWS UP

Paul was an apostle well experienced in spiritual warfare. Anyone in pursuit of their destiny will encounter various levels of spiritual battle. What did your battle feel like? What did it look like? What were the after-effects of the war?

Remember that a battlefield is a place that effects change. Things are shifted. Landscapes are altered. Reformation takes place and modifications are sometimes made.

Paul encountered a spirit of divination in Acts 16:16. This spirit is translated as the spirit of python.

Let's take a look at some principles of this subtle spirit.

1. PYTHONS ARE NOT SO DANGEROUS WHEN THEY ARE SMALL.

Actually, pythons are non-poisonous and are often pets. Just because you have discerned a "little" spirit at work, doesn't mean it won't grow up. Never think that any demonic spirit can ever be your "pet."

Jesus said, "The prince of this world cometh and hath NOTHING in me." Be aware that just as God plants seeds and not trees, even so the enemy plants "little" foxes to spoil the vines of ministry. Be aware that spiritual skirmishes can turn into full-scale spiritual battlefields.

A little python can become a big python.

Don't ever trust a "snake" in your ministry, even if it's a small one.

2. PYTHON'S POWER IS IN ITS ABILITY TO CONSTRICT.

Constrict means to squeeze, to limit, to tighten, to apply pressure. Do you sense this happening in your ministry? Are you being "squeezed" by a spirit? Has the enemy tried to "limit" your ability to progress in your vision? Is something or someone being used that is "applying pressure"?

The only press we should feel is forward progression by the Spirit of God. Never should we be "pressured" by the enemy to make a wrong move. Don't let this python spirit gain strength.

The Delilah-like spirit is one that always presses a Samson-like minister. Judges 16:16..."And it came to pass when she pressed him daily...."

3. PYTHONS SUFFOCATE AND CRUSH THEIR VICTIMS.

Spiritual asphyxiation transpires when python grows and is able to have the strength to overcome its victims. With their strength, pythons are able to, not only suffocate, but to crush, even to the death.

Are you being overwhelmed by this spirit? Is your ministry under such an intense attack that you sense the "breath of God: is being snuffed out of your life? Are you in a time of spiritual crushing, brought about by the spirit of python?

Satan is clearly referred to as a dragon that has the power to take one's breath. (Rev. 12)

The wind of the Spirit is blowing in the Body of Christ. Just as on the day of Pentecost, a rushing wind is filling the Church. This wind will bring cleansing and refreshing. No wonder this spirit of python is set to destruction against the leadership.

Leader, this spirit must be defeated and victory must be declared! Recognize it. Don't pet it. Don't feed it. Don't let it grow. Get it out!