Why Won't It Go Away

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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.”

Think

The Greek term for stronghold, ochyrōma, means “prison.” A stronghold is any area that is not surrendered to God’s control. Instead, these strongholds control us. More than mere sin, these strongholds embody the very essence of confinement. Their grip extends beyond our actions, ensnaring our thoughts and aspirations. The defeat of these strongholds calls for an unyielding commitment to spiritual warfare, donning the armor of God in the face of adversity.

Satan, the cunning adversary, employs a myriad of strategies to entangle and detain us, diverting us from the spiritual battle that rages on around us. He seeks to shroud us within our struggles, preventing us from stepping onto the battlefield of faith. He closes our eyes to the victory we’ve been given and leaves us without hope.

By equipping ourselves with this spiritual armor and invoking its power through fervent prayer, we break free from the chains that bind us. The belt of truth, breastplate of righteousness, boots of the gospel, shield of faith, helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit – each element of the armor serves as a vital piece in our conquest over the forces that seek to imprison us. Through prayer, we can take captive the wayward thoughts and destructive oppression and turn our focus to Jesus and his power.

Apply

Focus today on Jesus. Memorize 2 Corinthians 10:3-5.

Pray

Jesus, help me to be in constant communication with you. Guard my mind. Cause me to be alert and wary. You have a plan for me, and I know you have defeated the evil one. Remind me of that when I try to fight in my own power to put my armor on. I am grateful that I never have to fight alone. Amen.