The common definition of a stronghold is a fortified place, which is protected from enemy attacks. These strongholds usually have walls around them that make it impossible for enemy approach. Paul said, “For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ” (2 Corinthians 10:4-5).
What are the Strongholds Paul Discussed?
The strongholds Paul talked about are things that keep us from trusting God. Things like jealousy, lust, anger, fear, anxiety, worry, sexual immorality, addictions, hobbies, sports. A stronghold I struggle with is anxiety, and it has different appearances – feelings of inadequacy, worry about the future, frustration in work or relationships. Recently, in preparing for the solar eclipse that will bring total darkness at 1:00 in the afternoon for about four minutes, I’ve watched videos and read articles about the New Madrid seismic fault that could devastate eight states, including where I live. It is the most dangerous of all the seismic areas in our country. And I thought California or Alaska had those ratings for the fault lines in them. This has become a stronghold, something that invades my thoughts, even my dreams.
Lay Those Strongholds Down
Do you have strongholds you struggle with? I think everyone does. God is bigger. Nothing is impossible for Him. Nothing is too big or too small that we cannot bring to Him, because He loves us more than we can dream or imagine. If we let Him, He will be a fortress around us. He is our protector and provider, our counselor and comforter. He loves us with an everlasting love, like no earthly father can. The verse that helps me with anxiety is: “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7). So, I say to you as Paul said, “We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God . . . ” (2 Corinthians10:5). Trust God to partner with you as you work to lay down your strongholds.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help us to lay down our strongholds to live in the power of your salvation. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
A Closer Walk with God 