and every arrogance that raises itself up against the knowledge of G-d; we take every thought captive and make it obey the Messiah.
The idea of capturing thoughts and making them subject to Messiah is empowering. I am pushing aside some of the context here, but I think this concept really deserves it. This feels like a gem. Do you ever have the feeling that you are lacking because of the things that pop into your head while praying or reading scripture or anything like that? It is a struggle for me. Whether it is an attack from the enemy or just the longings of my flesh, going forward I will consider this idea of taking captive these thoughts and subjugating them to Messiah. The best illustration for this I have at the moment are that as I am busying myself with godliness, these stray thoughts come along my path. I can indulge them and lose my way or slow my progress. I can ignore them or ward them off and nothing comes of them. Or I can bind them and offer them up to my King as a sort of spoils of war. This thing came and attacked me and I brought it to you to do with as you please. It is not for me, I seek only to serve you. Perhaps it would be better for the intrusive though to be likened to a beautiful flower, or a treasure of some sort. It is something that is not mine, but it creates an opportunity for me to deal with it and prove my mettle by how I react towards it. Regardless, I encourage you to join me in implementing this idea. May we be strengthened to make every thought obey the Messiah.