Evil is very powerful and pervasive; but must be invited-within if evil is to damage our souls. Otherwise, we can grow and develop by our interaction with evil - we may build our strength against its resistance.
Protection (spiritual protection) is universally available, but must be asked-for. The Good Shepherd, the Holy Ghost, are always there; but we must choose to follow them.
This is because we are all mini-gods, gods in embryo; spiritual beings of (in some ways) immense power.
Especially in a negative sense. We can defy any amount or intensity of evil, simply by knowing evil and repenting it in our-selves. We can also - alone, unaided - deny, defy, or reject God the creator! (Many do.)
Of course, such inviting and asking is not merely verbal; but is an act of thinking; what is more, a conscious act of thinking. And because it is an act of thinking; it cannot be compelled, nor can it be prevented.
(To invite evil or ask for protection is a free act - which it could not be if it were unconscious.)
The devil cannot take us against our explicit wishes; and also God cannot shape our lives without our request; not even 'for our own good'.
We must consent. This is how it is.
