The weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of strongholds. 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, and we are ready to punish all disobedience, whenever your obedience is complete. 2 Corinthians 10:4-6 (NASB)
I pray that your spiritual eyes will be opened this week.
Paul says in Ephesians 6 that our ultimate battle is against spiritual forces of evil.
Phrases like “spiritual warfare” or “familiar spirits” or “deliverance” are associated with this battle against the unseen forces of evil.
Today, I would like you to ask one question in prayer, “God what are the strongholds in my life?”
In ancient cities, fields surrounded the city, walls surrounded the city, and in the middle of the city there was a fortified tower. From the tower the defense of the city was conducted. This stronghold remained the last defense if the walls of the city were breached.
When Paul used the word “stronghold” those reading his letter to 2 Corinthians would understand the image of strategic control. In the context of “destroying strongholds”, Christians have weapons powerful enough to destroy the fleshly/demonic influences that control our thoughts and actions.
What are your strongholds? What areas not of God control your attitudes and how you respond to everyday situations?
Do you have a stronghold of anger, control, sensuality, or materialism? Are your strongholds familiar in the sense of “Oh, that’s the way that I am?” Have your strongholds become obvious in bursts of temper, addiction, debt, or broken relationships?
Paul says that we have powerful weapons that can break strongholds. He then writes in verse 5 that we need to take our thoughts captive to the obedience of Christ.
How?
God delivers from strongholds in three easy steps:
First, identify the stronghold. If you don’t know your stronghold, ask God to reveal it, and if that doesn’t work, ask a friend!
Second, memorize scripture that counteracts the stronghold. Romans 12:2 tells us to be transformed by the renewing of our minds.
Third, look for your moment of obedience. God will give you a moment to say “no” to temptation or “yes” to blessing. The Spirit will provide the conviction and the power needed. You know the moment is now because Jesus will be standing next to you knocking at the door of your soul.
Obedience in this moment will bring instant deliverance (or blessing) or begin the path of obedience (or blessing). Follow Jesus. The Spirit brings freedom – step by step and day by day!
Ask God right now, “What strongholds are in my life?”