TAKE EVERY THOUGHT CAPTIVE
Diana Ordonez
Today's Scripture: "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
Theme: To better control our thoughts, we must first examine them closely.
EXAMINING YOUR THOUGHTS
Research tells us that the average person has around 60,000 thoughts each day. What’s even more surprising is that 75% of these thoughts are negative, and 95% are repetitive. Much of our thinking is influenced by the survival part of our brain, which is designed to look for threats, seek approval, and avoid discomfort. This built-in mechanism can lead us to constantly think in ways that aren’t aligned with God’s truth, producing feelings of fear, insecurity, or discouragement.
I’ve seen firsthand how powerful our thoughts are in shaping our lives. Thoughts impact how we feel, which in turn motivates our actions and ultimately determines our results. But here’s the part we often overlook: we don’t have to accept every thought that comes to mind. We have a choice. Every time we think or believe something, we can choose to either accept or reject that thought.
TAKING THOUGHTS CAPTIVE THROUGH EXAMINATION
We are called to “take every thought captive to obey Christ.” To do this, we must examine our thoughts closely. What is behind the thought? Does it align with God’s truth, or is it rooted in fear? When you notice a thought, pause to ask yourself, “How do I know this is true?” and, “What am I feeling when I think this?” Thoughts that are aligned with God’s truth will be rooted in love, not fear, and will draw you closer to His peace and purpose for your life.
As followers of Jesus, we’re called to destroy the lies and arguments that rise against the knowledge of God. This requires a commitment to recognize and reject thoughts that are not from Him. When a thought brings anxiety, doubt, or discouragement, we must pause, examine it, and bring it to Christ. The Holy Spirit can guide us in this process, helping us discern which thoughts to embrace and which to let go.
RENEWING YOUR MIND WITH SCRIPTURE
It’s essential to immerse ourselves in God’s Word. We control our thoughts by what we intentionally put into them. Scripture is a powerful tool for renewing our minds and aligning our thinking with God’s truth. By studying Scripture, we build a foundation that helps us discern between thoughts that lead us closer to God and those that pull us away. We can ask the Holy Spirit for guidance, inviting Him to reveal any thoughts that don’t serve God’s purpose for our lives.
Make It Personal: Are there recurring thoughts that cause you to doubt, fear, or feel unworthy? Spend time examining these thoughts. Ask yourself what’s behind them, if they align with God’s Word, and if they’re rooted in love. If they’re not, release them and replace them with a Scripture-based truth. Remember – you have the power to take every thought captive.
Pray: Lord, help me to recognize the thoughts that are not from You. Teach me to examine my thinking closely, to take every thought captive, and to replace lies with Your truths. Give me the wisdom to discern and the strength to choose thoughts that honor You. Thank You for guiding me and renewing my mind each day. Amen.
Read: Psalm 139:23-24
Weekly Memory Verse: “For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds.” 2 Corinthians 10:4, ESV