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 Cor 10:5)
One
thing I’ve noticed about my thought life is that I cannot always control what
thoughts pop into my mind, but I am in control of what I do with the thoughts
that are there. Here’s an example: When a pesky “what if” thought comes to
mind, stirring up anxiety, I can ask God to take care of it, whatever “it” may
be, and I can receive by faith the peace of mind He has promised. If I do this
I have taken that thought captive and made it obedient to Christ. I have cast
that care upon Him who cares for me. Here’s another example: The writer of
Psalm 42 is experiencing some depressing thoughts and asks himself, “Why are
you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me?” He then tells
himself, “ Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my
God.” (Psalm 42:5) The Psalmist is taking every thought captive and making
it obedient to the Savior who cares for him.
In
these examples, the “I” who is acting, petitioning God, trusting and praising
Him, is the spiritual part of the self and it is in control of the soul
(intellect and emotions). My spirit yielded
to the Holy Spirit within me is what takes captive every thought. This only became possible as I immersed
myself in the Bible because “… the word of God is living and active. Sharper
than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, …
it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart” (Hebr 4:12). It is actually the Holy Spirit within me
speaking through His Word that “judges the thoughts and attitudes of my
heart.” As I live in accordance with
the Spirit, my mind set on what the Spirit desires, then I am fully alive and I
know the peace of God that passes all understanding. Oh, would that I would always
listen to Him as He speaks to me! I would save myself so much trouble and
heartache. I thank you Lord that “… by one offering (You have)
perfected forever those who are being sanctified.” (Hebr 10:14 (NKJV))
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