We can all deal with intrusive and unwanted thoughts. Those nagging, condemning, or shaming whispers that burden the heart and keep us awake at night. It can feel overwhelming, but here’s the overcoming truth: those thoughts are not your thoughts, and they’re certainly not from God. The Bible tells us to take every thought captive and make it obedient to Christ. Why? Because the enemy fires these darts to try and defeat us and rob us of the joy and peace that God has given us through Christ. It’s a fear tactic that loses power as soon as we remember the truth that sets us free.

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When oppressive thoughts arise, recognize their source. If these thoughts come with accusation and condemnation, paralyzing you with shame, fear, or guilt, they are not from your Heavenly Father. He will never speak to you that way. God is not an accuser, He’s an affirmer. God doesn’t condemn you, He comforts you. His thoughts toward you are filled with love, grace, and truth to give you hope and purpose. The enemy’s lies are no match for God’s truth, and you are not obligated to entertain every thought that pops into your head. That’s why Romans 6 says, “consider” (think) yourself dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus, free from sin’s power.

Taking every thought captive means filtering them through the truth of God’s grace. His Spirit reminds us that we are righteous in Christ, loved unconditionally, never alone, and free to live without fear. God is for you, not against you. Let His thoughts bring rest and peace. He loves you!

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Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.

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