If you surveyed Catholic believers as to whether or not they believe in hell and the existence of the devil we might find a good deal of skepticism. C. S. Lewis certainly believes them to exist and in the Screwtape Letters, in a very entertaining fashion, points out how these devils exploit our fallen human nature. Of course, as Catholic Christians we do believe in the existence of the devil. I'm certain that most of our Protestant brothers and sisters believe as well.
Now, we may choose to incorporate this belief into our spiritual lives to whatever extent we wish. Certainly, instead of thinking of our quest for holiness as a battle with the demons we can instead look at it as a journey toward perfection through the practice of virtue. This is what most people would feel to be a more positive approach.
However, belief in an active and sinister demon at work attempting to move us into his house can have a positive side. It provides us with hope and reassurance. The hope is that there exists, as well, angels and saints whose purpose is to bring us into the house of our Father. We can be reassured that the communion of saints is out there ready to be called to our aid when we ask for it. Virtue is much more attainable with all the help they can provide. A belief in the presence evil forces can only make the existence of these holy forces more real for us.
The words of the Eucharistic prayers come to mind.
"May their merits and prayers gain us your constant help and protection."
"May he [Jesus] ... enable us to share in the inheritance of your saints, ... on whose constant intersession we rely for help."
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