Introduction: Have you forgotten that we are in spiritual warfare? At times, we lose sight of our real enemy. For instance, do you ever get resentful toward people? Your neighbors? Co-workers? Family? In-laws? Politicians?
Our devotion today lays out the PROBLEM of the real enemy and the PROVISION against the enemy.
1. The PROBLEM of the real enemy! (2 Cor 10:3) – “For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh.”
Unfortunately, we think our enemy is who we see with our physical eyes. But the following verses pinpoint the real enemy. Therefore, we need spiritual eyes to see the real enemy. Furthermore, we need spiritual weapons to engage in battle.
2. The PROVISION against the enemy! (2 Cor 10:4-5) – “(For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.”
The word “stronghold” is ὀχύρωμα (okh-oo’-ro-mah), which means a fortress, strong defense, or stronghold.
In other words, Satan builds a fortress (castle) in a person’s mind, which can take hold of one’s life. The manifestation of the fortress could be lust, pornography, jealousy, envy, lasciviousness, strife, bitterness, or other things.
Keep in mind, if we open the door of our mind to the devil, he will walk right in. Once in, he will refuse to leave. Only Jesus Christ can force him out. Then the cleanup job must be done.
“…bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.” (2 Cor 10:5)
The words “pulling down” are καθαίρεσις (kath-ah’-ee-res-is), which means taking down, razing, or destroying. The words “taking captive” are αἰχμαλωτίζω (aheekh-mal-o-tid’-zo), which means to take captive (in war); I subdue or ensnare.
This is not a passive battle! With the power of the Lord Jesus, one is able to “take down” the opposing forces, which insinuate lies. Instead of evil thoughts, the Holy Spirit impresses truth.
Conclusion: Aren’t you glad that our Lord has not left us alone? His work within us by His Holy Spirit produces holiness instead of sinfulness. Are you battling evil thoughts? How about asking and trusting Jesus to “demolish” them and then substitute those lies with the truth of God’s Word?
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese
