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The most dangerous battle ground on earth is the human mind. Each day is a war zone. Satanic attacks must be met with God's help and every thought must be captured and yielded to Christ. The victory or defeat of your Christian life hinges on your thought life.
"For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) 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 10:3-5).
We all face different "fiery darts" but we all fight the same enemy. The devil launches his arrows of lust, fear, pride, anxiety, criticism, unbelief - and they can only be overcome by divine resources. (Read Ephesians 6:10-20.)
Do not think for a minute that the only bad thoughts are immoral ones. Some of the most destructive thoughts are the ones that simply distract us from Christ or detour us into living in the realm of emotions. So many people right now are battling depression and despondency. Remember that the thoughts you cooperate with eventually will consume you, and finally will control your actions.
Today you will have to do battle with your thoughts in some way. Here are some practical ways to prepare for the fight...
Guard the Gates
Ancient city walls were vital to safety and security. However, if you left the gates open, the enemy could come right in the door! You may erect walls around your life but if you fail to guard the gates you have left yourself wide open to the enemy. The eye gate and the ear gate must be guarded! The only thing worse than not having sight or hearing is having them and wasting them. Be careful what you allow yourself to look at and listen to! It all influences your thinking.
Give Every Thought to God
Do not think that every thought is your own. To be sure, our flesh is wicked and weak. However, many thoughts are suggested by the world around us and the tempter who is against us. When a thought comes that does not honor the Lord we must stop at that moment and give it to God.
Get Your Mind on Good Things
It is not enough to cast out wicked thoughts if they are not replaced by righteous ones. In fact, the more holy thoughts take up our concentration the less room there will be for unholy ones. Christ crowds out other things. Listen to Christ-honoring music, read an edifying book, have a conversation with a Spirit-filled friend, meditate on Scripture. Fill your mind with good things. Do not accept thoughts, choose them...and choose carefully.
"Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things" (Philippians 4:8).
Are you "under it" today? Don't lose your ability to laugh. Choose to rejoice. Rehearse the goodness of God. May God help you to fix your heart on the One who is always thinking about you.