Thought Corral
Theme of the Week: Purity Guardrails
Wednesday, April 13, 2005
 1 of 1
Key Bible Verse: We take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5, NIV). Bonus Reading:Romans 8:5-14
Most sexual impurity is generated from women you don't even know. You view models, actresses, and receptionists in passing. But they're strangers. You don't live with them, so training the eyes defends against them. But what about women who aren't strangers? You live and work in close proximity with them, even worshiping with them on Sundays. The defense perimeter of the eyes can't screen out these "live" attractions. Impure thoughts and attractions may arise. So you need another defense.
"What am I supposed to do?" you say. "Those thoughts come on their own. I can't help them." That certainly seems true. Even in church, a daydream may suddenly transpire about some woman. Where do these thoughts come from? The mind is like a wild mustang, running free, one thought randomly triggering another.
Still, the Bible says we must control not just our eyes, but our whole bodies: "You must honor God with your body" (1 Corinthians 6:20). And not just our bodies, but our minds as well. The Holy Spirit, through Paul, is clear on this. But 2 Corinthians 10:5 is jarring. Is it really possible to take every thought captive?
—Fred Stoeker in Every Man's Battle
My Response: What "defense perimeters" am I erecting?
Thought to Apply: If you don't make up your mind, then your unmade mind will unmake you.—E. STANLEY JONES (missionary to India)
Adapted from Every Man's Battle (Group, 2001) by permission.
Copyright © 2005 by the author or Christianity Today International/Men of Integrity magazine.Click here for reprint information on Men of Integrity. 1 of 1
Your Word says that You bless those whose hearts are pure. Grant me the willpower to become and remain inwardly pure.
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