Taking Charge

Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ. 2 Corinthians 10:5 (King James Version)

The purposes, thoughts, perceptions, and schemes of my mind are significant. They are powerful enough to direct the course of my day. If left unattended they can run rampant and cause major trouble for me. Until recently I was not too good at taking charge of the things that entered my mind or the things I proceeded to dwell on. Once a negative thought toward myself or another individual became a part of my thinking process, I either let it take over or had some ineffective battles with it. Usually my attempt at controlling my thoughts was to simply counter them with better thoughts. If it was a lie I would try to think on what was true. If it was negative, I would try to think of something positive. If I couldn’t ignore it I felt I could at least replace it. I thought this was what the Bible meant when it said to take every thought captive. At best I was barely staying ahead of the mental games. My thoughts were still more in charge than I was.

God has had to open my eyes to something I was missing. He did so by bringing today’s verse to mind. Within it are housed two essential steps for finally being in control of my thoughts. Step one is to cast down the subtle imaginations and speculations that come across my mental path. Much like a wall the enemy is attempting to build with one “brick” at a time, I am to pull down and demolish the construction of the wall. Step two is to then lead the thought away like I would a prisoner. And where better to lead the thought than straight to the throne room of God, where He will then cast it into outer darkness. It is not only a demolition, it is a dethroning!

The incredible part is that this does not take a long time to do. As soon as I am aware of an approaching dangerous thought, my effective prayer is as follows: I cast that thought down and command it to go right to the throne room of God! I ask for a fresh anointing of my mind by the Spirit of God and the blood of Christ. I take authority over my mind and my thoughts. In Jesus name I pray, amen. Sometimes the prayer may vary but the content remains. This prayer was birthed in me just three days ago and I am in open mouthed wonder at the powerful effect it has had on me. I gladly offer it to any who are barely battling their own thoughts. I am breathing the first precious breaths of emotional and mental freedom that I have known little of in my Christian life. To God be the glory!

Father, I praise You for the power of effective prayer. Rule my life as I reign in my thoughts. The many trips to Your throne room each day are a delight! Amen.