Paul’s words about your life of faith sound like war, don’t they? “We 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 10:5). Demolishing enemies. Taking captives. Paul knows that to win the battle versus temptation you must go to war with the Word of God. You can’t sit back and hope that this time your temptation will be different. Put on your armor and get ready for a fight!

So, warrior, keep the sword of God’s Word at your side. Maybe a note card would help. Write down God’s mighty Word that will help you fight against those familiar temptations. If you anxiously think the worst will happen, write down Jeremiah 29:11: “‘I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans … to give you hope and a future.’” If you are tired of being a new parent or a caregiver or an unappreciated leader at work, write down Matthew 11:28: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” If you think you can’t be forgiven after that sin, smash that stronghold with John 19:30. Jesus cried out, “It is finished.” 

These words have divine power to demolish the sins that have a strong hold on your heart. Let the Word of God fight against the lies you believe, because God’s Word is the truth.