Every Thought

We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ. 2 Corinthians 10:5 (New American Standard Bible)

The picture has been clear in my mind for days. I see myself within a cave with numerous caverns. The biggest and darkest part reveals chains hanging from a portion of the wall. Although they are long and foreboding they have no lock. I have three choices. I can stay far away from them, return to a close proximity of them, or wrap myself up in them and allow them to hold me captive. What are the chains? Thought patterns that would easily spiral me down emotionally. The enemy of my soul wants nothing more than to lure me to them and his attempts at doing that are endless. He uses various thoughts, situations, memories, even music, as bait that has lines leading right to the chains. I must be aware of the connection he will make if given the chance. If I don’t resist and I just keep dwelling on the thoughts, I will find myself wrapped in the chains.

So how do I keep that from happening? How do I stay away from the chains? I must stay acutely aware of what he is doing and how he is doing it. I must look for where my thoughts will eventually lead me. Those that lead to the chains must not be allowed to play out in my mind. The moment I am aware of dangerous thinking I must do what today’s verse clearly says…destroy them and take each one captive. The choice is mine, the responsibility is mine, and through Christ, the ability is mine.

It helps me to acknowledge what it would mean if I don the chains. It would mean sadness, shame, discouragement, and darkness. To that I say “no thank you!” I don’t want it and don’t need it. Resisting, renouncing, and rejecting each thought works! I may not be able to stop the enemy from his attempts, but I can certainly stop him from being victorious. Today, I still see the cave and the chains. I know this will be another day of battle but I also know the outcome as I obey the instructions Christ has given me. I have tasted defeat as well as victory in this area of mindsets and imaginations. Today I choose victory!

I stand on the truth that I am a privileged participant in a battle that truly belongs to the Lord. He has supplied me with all I need to fight successfully. I am aware of my enemy and his tactics, but even more aware of my Lord and the armor He has supplied for me. Through His Word and His Spirit I will stand. Stand indeed!

Father, so often I have been intimidated by the attacks and attempts of the enemy. Today, I straighten my back, square my shoulders, and poise myself for the battles You will help me win! I praise You for the triumph of Your ways. Amen.

The Battle Belongs to The Lord - Spiritual Warfare
http://youtube.com/watch?v=DMZ8D6nTKhg