“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,”
‭‭II Corinthians‬ ‭10‬:‭3‬-‭5‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

Strongholds ~ Spiritual strongholds are persistent, negative patterns of thinking, behavior, or emotional bondage built on lies, hindering one’s walk with God, with examples including addictions (food, substances), deep-seated lies (self-hatred, worthlessness), emotional issues (unforgiveness, bitterness, chronic anger, rejection), negative thought loops (doubts, “what-ifs”), pride, and distorted views of God or self, often rooted in past trauma or deception. They function like mental prisons, where one agrees with a lie, solidifying a barrier against truth

There are different definitions on this topic but this one above I found pretty accurate. From my own experiences I can attest to this war of fighting against some of these strongholds or (habits) from forming again.

Unfortunately, to keep the ground you’ve won, means war at times! But if we listen to His instructions we will continue to grow and overcome these patterns.

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”
‭‭Philippians‬ ‭4‬:‭6‬-‭7‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

It is an uphill climb to keep those negative thought patterns from forming. If formed, it is an even harder climb. So as these thoughts begin knocking again…and they will, we need to respond immediately and replace them with His truth.

Example: “No one really cares or values me or my life”… Must be replaced with the truth of what Gods says about it!

“Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your cares upon Him, for He cares for you.”
‭‭I Peter‬ ‭5‬:‭6‬-‭7‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

Consistent negative thinking about our situations can be a form of pride and usually leads to depression.

The above scripture states to humble ourselves…and He will lift us up.

In our weaknesses and fears of not having control, we can get caught in these webs of thought patterns.

We cannot even control the next second from moving forward on the clock, so why do we think we can control certain situations and people.

The happy news is He understands us and loves us immensely. He wants us to fully rest in His plan for us. But if we are boggled down with negative, fearful, anxious thoughts about our future, ourselves and others…we won’t see the truth.

Here’s the truth…

“I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture. The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.”
‭‭John‬ ‭10‬:‭9‬-‭10‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

I pray that this mindset will be established in us in the New Year, 2026!

Blessings of peace, joy and heath to all.

Thank you for visiting my posts.

I pray God gives you insight, strength and wisdom in all things.