| 2 Corinthians 10:3-5 – For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. |
Unsettling events across the world, within our own communities and families can make us feel we are constantly under siege. However, our tactics to fight the battles swirling around us need not look like those employed by many throughout the world.
Today’s scripture provides an essential battle tactic, taking every thought captive. One effective way is by countering negative and troubling thoughts with scripture. Jesus used this strategy when the enemy tried tempting Him following His solitary 40 day fast in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11).
For instance, when having nagging concerns about our health or the health of a loved one, we focus on scripture such as “….by His wounds you have been healed” (1 Peter 2:24).
We refute intrusive thoughts of inadequacy and of falling short of expectations with “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well” (Psalms 139:14).
A remedy for financial worries is reflecting on His promise “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of His glory in Christ Jesus (Philippines 4:19).
When embattled with continual thoughts of hopelessness, we can reflect on Hebrews 10:23 “Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful.” Responding to troubling thoughts with His Word engages weapons having divine power to demolish strongholds.
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, Help us remember when troubling thoughts occur to immediately fully turn our attention to you. Thank you that invasive and troubling thoughts are no match for the powerful weapon of your Word. In the Strong Name of Jesus, Amen.
–Phyllis Hooten
