For though we walk in the flesh, we are not waging war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds. We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ,

2 Corinthians 10: 3-5

What are the benefits of roots? For the tree, roots seek out moisture and nutrients from the soil. And roots provide a sure foundation so that the tree is not easily uprooted.

Growing deeper in our faith also nourishes our souls and strengthens us as we are living in and through Christ. I wanted to write about some of the spiritual struggles we face and today’s verses help point us in that direction.

Spiritually speaking we are in a battle against a foe that intends us harm. 1 Peter 5:8 tells us to “be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.”

Our strength is not our own, but the “divine power to destroy strongholds.” Still, we have a role to play. We are to take every thought captive in obedience to Christ in all things. Every thought. Every thought.  What kind of thoughts run through your mind? Do your thoughts hold you captive at times?

Just as an athlete trains the physical body, he also trains his mind to fight through the pain, maintain discipline, and to obtain the goal.  Our spiritual training begins in the mind and one way to practice the renewing of our minds is by following the instruction of Paul to the Philippians:

“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things” 

Philippians 4:8

Make a list of those things that are good. Write them down and remind yourself throughout the day.