Understanding Mental Strongholds

Understanding Mental Strongholds
Part Two:
Have The Mind Of Christ

This Scripture defines strongholds for us: “arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God.” Where do arguments that challenge truth form, and where does our personal knowledge reside? They both inhabit our minds. The mind is where strongholds are formed and maintained. We walk with God, spend time in prayer and worship, and study the Word, but yet we excuse many of our thoughts, attitudes, beliefs, and perceptions.
These are our thoughts, our opinions, and our perceptions. Our identity has been molded based on our experiences in our family of origin, our communities, and our peer groups. These have created our beliefs and thinking patterns that we now deem as an indicator of who we are as a person.
In Proverbs 16:25 we see that our ways must be measured against the Lord’s truth. “There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death.” (NIV)

We are commanded to, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.”
Matthew 22:37

The essence of who we are is encapsulated in our thought life.
“For as he thinks in his heart, so is he.”
Proverbs 23:7 (NKJ)

We surmise that our thoughts are a part of us, representing our personality and individuality. We are who we are, right? We all feel that our thoughts, opinions, and perceptions are valid, but unless we test them to stand or fall in agreement with the Word, we can and will be lead astray. Who then should examine and change our ways? God! He can and He will if we allow Him.