On occasion, we’ve been talking about having victory over worry. Staying steadfast against worry can be a challenge. Let’s look at another way to stay tenacious and steadfast by following the truth of 2 Corinthians 10:5: “We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and we aretaking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ” (NASB).The truth of the phrase “we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ,” is most likely the key to my own success (though imperfect), in having victory over worry. I began to think of worry as an arrow being shot at my mind by Satan and I have a choice of whether I receive it or not. I envision grabbing that thought, that worry, that concern, and “taking it captive.” In other words, evaluating it and asking myself, “Is this the way God wants me to think?” or “Is this the truth?” By then I’m beginning to “stay” my mind to respond in prayer. And the best way that I can make my mind obey is to claim a Scripture verse.
Let’s look at some examples.
Instead of, “I love my mother so much but she’s elderly. How will I cope with her death?”
Take captive: “Second Corinthians 10:13 tells me, Lord, you promise not to give me anything more than I can handle. I’ll enjoy every moment with her now and know that You are in charge of her future.“
Instead of, “My prodigal son could be in big trouble. Maybe he’ll end up on the streets and his life in danger. I’m going to try to rescue him.“
Take captive: “Proverbs 19:19 says that I can’t really rescue anyone without preventing Your work in their life. I’ll believe You will use whatever pain my son has to suffer to draw him to Yourself.”
Instead of, “I may lose my job if I don’t make this sale.”
Take captive: “Father, give favor for my product to these buyers. Philippians 4:19 promises that you’ll meet all my true needs and I believe you will. You are my Provider.”
Instead of, “Our granddaughter has been born premature and her life is in danger. I just couldn’t stand it if she dies. What will I do?“
Take captive: “Heavenly Father, You know the plans you have for this little girl as you promise in Jeremiah 29:11. Heal her according to Your will and give us all the strength to go through whatever You have in mind.”
I truly believe taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ will break the stronghold of worry. Yet, don’t be concerned if you have to take your thoughts captive over and over again. That’s normal. Just be persistent and the threat and arrows will diminish.
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