When we find our desires are focused on worldly things (James 4:4) instead of Godly things, we allow a “foothold” (Ephesians 4:27) to become established. This may cause inner turmoil and also strife with others. In Galatians 5:24, Paul speaks of our position in Christ Jesus: Our position is one where we have crucified “the sinful nature”. We need to do this daily and along with this we also need to “renew” our mind by meditating on the word. Self-centeredness needs to be replaced with the desire to serve others. We need to place others above our self. Instead of pride we need humbleness (James 4:6). This is a daily battle and we must remember that our weapons are not those of this world but are spiritual and unseen. Let us practice living in accordance with the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:7), setting our mind on what the Spirit desires and not on what the sinful nature desires. When thoughts contrary to the word enter in, we must immediately do what it says in 2 Corinthians 10: 5b, “…and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” This word “captive” is a militaristic one indicating taking those thoughts captive as a soldier in battle would take captive a POW (Prisoner Of War). This is not a defensive measure but an offensive one. Today, we need to ask the Holy Spirit if there are any “footholds” the enemy may have in our lives. When He reveals them, we need to take them captive not allowing them any more control. Remember we are soldiers in Christ and it’s His battle. Our strength comes from Him.

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James 4:1