“We are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ” (2 Corinthians 10:5).
Every word, attitude, and action begins as a thought. That’s why your thought life matters so much. Scripture tells us to take every thought captive. But too often we just let our minds run free. Left unchecked, a single thought can quickly grow into something that grips us—a stronghold that weakens our walk with Christ.
A spiritual stronghold is simply a lie you’ve come to believe. This doesn’t happen overnight. It begins with one worldly or fleshly thought, followed by a choice—accept it or reject it. When we entertain the lie, it grows into a habit. And once that habit becomes deeply rooted, it can control us.
Paul describes how strongholds form through, “speculations and lofty things raised up against the knowledge of God” (2 Corinthians 10:5). Speculations are conclusions we jump to without facts. They plant seeds of fear, resentment, or insecurity. Lofty thoughts are just as dangerous—placing our reasoning, emotions, or experiences above God’s Word. If not corrected, these prideful ways of thinking reshape our mindset in ways that oppose biblical truth.
But here’s the good news: no thought has to control you because Christ already reigns over your mind. As a believer, you have been given the mind of Christ (1 Corinthians 2:16). His Spirit within you empowers you to say, “No” to lies and “Yes” to truth. You don’t fight alone.
So where do you begin? Ask God to reveal every thought that doesn’t align with His Word. When He brings it to light, don’t push it away—replace it with truth. Set your mind on God and godly things (Romans 8:5-7, Colossians 3:2, Hebrews 12:2). And use Philippians 4:8 as a filter for your thoughts, “whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things.”
What thought have you let run free in your mind that contradicts God’s Word? Take it captive today. Deliberately bring your thought life into obedience to Christ. As you do, His peace will guard your heart, His truth will break down the lies, and you’ll find your mind resting in Him.
