Have you ever had persistent negative thoughts about a person or group of people? Perhaps someone wronged you. You may have forgiven them, but negative thoughts persist. Maybe you find certain behaviors or language of someone annoying or offensive, but the Bible calls you to love them. How should a believer deal with persistent negative thoughts?
Spiritual Battle
It is important to recognize that persistent negative thoughts are a form of spiritual warfare. As with any type of battle, it is important to employ the correct weapons.
Choosing the right weapons
For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ 2 Corinthians 10:3-5
2 Corinthians reminds us that the battle we are fighting is not of this realm–it is in the spiritual realm. The battle will continue to rage unless we are properly equipped to face it.
What are the weapons that I can use?
The Whole Armor of God:
- The Belt of Truth
- The Breastplate of Righteousness
- The Gospel of Truth
- The Shield of Faith
- The Helmet of Salvation
- The Sword of the Spirit
- Prayer –Ephesians 6:13-18
According to Ephesians 6, the weapons listed above are ours to use to in the spiritual battle. The goal, according to Ephesians 6:13-18 is to stand and and do all to remain standing. These weapons will help us to bring those persistent negative thoughts, into captivity to the obedience of Christ.
