Note from Pastor Al

 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)

How are you persuaded? What leads you to a certain decision? Why is it that you decide to cut your grass instead of letting it go two weeks? What leads us to certain beliefs and understanding of life?

Have you ever thought about decision-making as a type of battle? This verse from 2 Corinthians 10 uses military language to help us assess what it is that we experience every day: a battle. Arguments rise up to dissuade or convince us of a certain action. Lofty opinions, those wielded by convincing sources and credible personas have the ability to lead us to God or away from God.

Paul, in writing to the Corinthians, suggests a simple battle plan: “take every thought captive [so as] to obey Christ” (2 Corinthians 10:5).

How does this work?

Fear and anxiety are some very prevalent challenges to the security Christ would have us experience. Jesus said, “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33).

When fears and anxious thoughts rise in our mind, we have a battle in which the weapons involve our thoughts. Trouble, rumors of wars, chance of economic collapse, concern for epidemics or pandemic and unsafe conditions in our community could easily lead us to panic or fear. Jesus directs our thoughts in this way (and recognize that this is a wrestling match in our minds): troubles will come BUT I have already won the battle for your eternity (Paraphrase of John 16:33). 

We are to take thoughts of fear and confront them with the truth of Jesus’ conquering Kingship; He wins. He is powerful. He knows all and has an eternal connection to us because of the blood that He shed for us. He already paid for our lives with His blood. How much more will He continue to watch over every event, every virus, every infidel for our good! 

We are able to “take heart” by wrestling down negative and pessimistic thoughts about our future - Jesus has overcome!  

Let the blood that Jesus spilled, fill you with a recognition of His commitment to you. Let the life He now lives, as King of the Universe, watching over His family, the church, lead you to a life of battle-hardened trust! “But take heart; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33).

Blessings to you in Christ!