learning DAILY



2 Corinthians 10:3-5, For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh.  For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ.

I have had trouble with my thoughts lately.  It seems when the devil wants to mess with me, he tries to put all sorts of things into my mind.  Sometimes he tries to get me to worry about something; another time it might be to want something I don’t need or cannot have.  He is pretty sly at slipping things in my mind and has had more success this week than normal. 

Paul discusses spiritual warfare in several of his writings.  It is important to know that the devil hates God and all Christians and does all he can to destroy or ruin their Christian testimony.  Because this warfare is in the spiritual realm, worldly weapons will not work.  Worldly weapons such as violence, political solutions, human ingenuity, talents, wealth, organizational skills, and charisma will not be adequate to battle against the schemes of the devil.  The only weapons adequate to battle the forces of Satan and his false teaching and lies are the weapons God gives.  These would include the blood of Jesus, the authority of Jesus’ name, the power of the Holy Spirit, and the spiritual gifts.

When I have these days where I know my thoughts are being attacked, I have two choices; I can either give into them or I can “take them captive to the obedience of Christ”.  What exactly does that mean?  Christian warfare involves bringing all our thoughts into alignment with Christ’s will.  If this is not done, the mind will think upon all sorts of things.  James tells us, “each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed.  Then when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and when sin is full-grown, brings forth death.” (James 1:14-15).   That is why we must stop the temptation that comes through our thoughts immediately.

Here are some things to consider to take your thoughts captive to the obedience of Christ. First, know that God knows even our thoughts; nothing is hidden from Him.  Second, be aware that some thoughts originate with you and others come directly from the enemy – the mind is a battleground!  You must resist and reject evil and unpleasant thoughts in the name of Jesus Christ.  Remember that the blood of Jesus Christ and His Name are spiritual weapons.  Third, keep your mind focused on Christ and heavenly things rather than on earthly things by filling your mind with God’s Word (see Philippians 4:8 – which has been a key verse for me!).  Lastly, be careful what you allow your eyes to see and your ears to hear.  There are too many opportunities to fill your mind with ungodliness today!

Be proactive when the devil begins to tempt you and do not put yourself into situations that allow you to be tempted.  Resist the devil and he has to flee from you! (James 4:7).  It really is our responsibility to “take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ”.  Why not begin today!

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