Written by REVELATIONS FOR TODAY by Pastor Michael Obata
2 Corinthians 10:5 – New International Version (NIV)
5 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.
An individual’s life circumstances are shaped by their thought patterns and the issues they consistently focus on be it positive or negative. It is naïve to think the challenges we face as Christians in this world are physical. They are not. The challenges we experience as Christians are manifestations of spiritual battles (2 Corinthians 10:4). The battle starts in the mind where our thoughts are housed. It is up to you to determine what stays in your house. TAKE CAPTIVE OF YOUR THOUGHTS. What you consistently meditate on or think of will in turn become strongholds that work against you or stepping stones that will lunch you into GOD’s plan and promise for your life.
As Christians we have to be intentional with our thoughts. It is up to you take captive of your thoughts. It’s up to you to demolish thoughts that are inconsistent with the word of GOD. In the first place how can you demolish thoughts inconsistent with GOD’s word when you do not know the word of GOD. How would you know the word of GOD if you don’t have a relationship with HIM. As Christians it’s important to see yourself as GOD sees you. Through your relationship with the LORD, your thoughts and imaginations are shaped by HIM which in turn creates the destiny HE already prepared for you. Make every effort to filter the thoughts that do not align with the WORD of GOD. Therein lies prosperity and good success.
Joshua 1:8 says “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.” This scripture admonishes us to be intentional with our thoughts and imaginations. Anything that is inconsistent with what our heavenly FATHER has said should be thrown out of your mind. The meditations or continuous thoughts of a man impacts his words and actions. This in turn affects his lifestyle and destiny. The Bible in Proverbs 4:23 says “Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.” Our thoughts shape our lives. A positive attitude to life starts from the heart and it produces a positively rich life.
The world is currently challenging both for Christians and non-Christians. However, we have the advantage because although we are in this world we are not of this world (John 17: 14 & 16). All power and authority has been given unto us overcome every negativity or challenging situation in our lives and sphere of influence. Christians must refuse to be overwhelmed by whatever challenges we may face, that is why the HOLYSPIRIT in the theme scripture admonishes and encourages us to be proactive with our thoughts and imaginations of our heart. Focus on what GOD is saying and not what the challenge says.
Learn to control your thoughts with the WORD of GOD. Let your focus be on the ways and mind of GOD through fellowship with the scriptures (truth) and HIS SPIRIT (in prayer). Be a true worshipper: worshipping in spirit and truth (John 4:23-24). Even when challenges feel overwhelming, discipline your thoughts and imaginations on the desired positive outcome, praying in the Spirit with gratitude, speaking the WORD of GOD and you will definitely come out victorious.
Scripture meditation
Philippians 4:6-9; 1 Peter 5:7; Proverbs 4:23; Romans 8:28 & Isaiah 26:3.
Prayer
Glorious FATHER, You are my refuge and my strong tower, my ever-present help in time of need. I receive the grace of Your Word and SPIRIT to take captive of my thoughts that would shape the course of my life to align with Your will and purpose of my life. In Jesus name.
Confession
I take authority over my thoughts & imaginations for the Grace of GOD is at work in me!