When I first came to the Lord one of the most important things I learned was how to take captive every thought.

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.

2 Corinthians 10:3-5

This was one of those key scriptures that brought to the forefront the importance of thought life. What this passage reveals is that:

• We have ultimate control of our thoughts.
• The need to discern thoughts that are of God vs. those that are not.
• The Word of God gives us light to discern thoughts.
• Stop thoughts as they enter the mind to prevent sin and trouble.
• We have divine power in the “Name of Jesus” over all thoughts.

One of my very first mentors in the faith would say, “You don’t take captive something that is yours”. In other words thoughts can be like “invaders” that need tied up and cast down. The honest truth is the devil is always trying to put the wrong thoughts in your head. And God is always trying to get your attention.

Yet, God gives us the weapons to see what we will do with them – so use your weapons! As you grow in the Lord you learn to set your thoughts on things above and not on things of the earth – or of the flesh.

This is why I always emphasize the secret place with God because of the innate power that it carries. When your communion with God is strong, His Presence is much more living and real within you. Because of this God is much bigger in your thought life than anything else. Still, even with this there is the need to discern and recognize those thoughts that are not of His Spirit. Sometimes those differences can be subtle and other times obvious.

But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.

Hebrews 5:14

This is how we mature in our walk with God. Those who learn to discern good vs. evil, even making the right choices, are walking as sons of God and not mere children. The truth of God Word is essential as is the communion of His Spirit in our lives. This is how we grow in spiritual wisdom and understanding.

Keep your heart with all diligence, For out of it spring the issues of life.

Proverbs 4:23

Keep your heart with all diligence, the core and center of who you are, as that is where God wants to pour out His wisdom, revelation and Spirit in your life!

Have a great day and enjoy His Presence always!