A Captive Mind
July 26, 2024
We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ.
2 Corinthians 10:5 (ESV)
In human anatomy, the brain is command central for the entire body. Every action, response, and impulse originates here. But the brain is not only a mental organ; it is also a spiritual organ. Our thoughts have spiritual components as well.
You cannot separate the spiritual from the mental, emotional and physical because all of these parts interweave together. If we are to have victory over sin, we must control our mind. This is primarily a spiritual battle and our effort is crucial.
Before you accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior, your mind is enemy-held territory. Colossians 1:21 says, “Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your mind because of your evil behavior.” When you become a follower of Jesus, God moves in and reorders the priorities of your heart and mind.
But your mind needs maintenance. God wants to guide your mind and thoughts, but that requires your partnership. You need to surrender to His ways, reading His Word, so that His thoughts influence your thoughts.
You must make up your mind about your mind. You are responsible to make your mind, well, mind. You have to guide your thoughts, deciding what you will ponder or ruminate over, and what you will not.
Of course, the mental battle is also a moral battle. Right thinking leads to right living. God wants to not only direct how you think, but also how you live.
Each day, make a plan to guide your mind. You do not do this alone, God gives you His Spirit to help. From when you wake to the moment you place your head on the pillow, make your mind captive to life and peace.
Prayer: God, thank You that I can guide my mind and have control of my thoughts because of Your Spirit living in me. Help me to “take my thoughts captive” and to direct my thoughts daily toward You. Enable me through Your Spirit to think on the things which enrich my relationship with You. In Jesus’ name, amen.