“For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7.

Our Minds are often overwhelmed with fears, worries, and things that seem hard to understand. That old archenemy of our souls is constantly trying to evade our thoughts and convince us that we are unworthy, incapable, and unloved by God. His primary source of attack is the mind. But we can rest in the assurance of God’s grace that we have the power to defeat his subtle attacks. 2 Timothy 1:7 reminds us, “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” 

We need to be careful about what we let into our minds, especially things that bring unrest or slow, negative thoughts planted by the enemy. His goal is to hold back our physical and spiritual growth by filling our hearts with fear and taking away our peace.

Don’t let the enemy convince you that all is lost, that you’ll never overcome your struggles, or you’re not good enough; always remember that God is faithful and provides the victory for all His beloved children in His word, reminding us to think on these things: “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” 

My friends, staying clear-headed takes focus and discipline, which allows us to place our faith in God’s truth and rely on the scriptures to help us control our thoughts, emotions, and actions. This way of thinking helps us stand strong against the attacks and tricks of Satan and his forces. “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:” 1Peter 5:8.

Consider the Roman Soldiers’ battle shield, which was about 3.5 feet tall, 2 feet wide, and weighed 22 pounds. The boss, or center, of the shield was used to push the enemy to the ground, then stab him with a shorter sword. The shield was one of the most effective weapons for the Roman soldier because it served both in attack and defense.

As God’s soldiers, we are more than overcomers through the power of the Holy Ghost that lives within us; praise God that we have a spiritual shield and sword. The Apostle Paul says in Ephesians 6:16-17, “Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:” 

Our faith in God can drive away fear, anxiety, unrest, and any other mental attacks thrown our way by the enemy. Let us hold on to the unfailing promises and truth that we find in the Word of God …resting in His abiding love, presence, and protection now and forever! “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.”  Isaiah 41:10.

Let us resolve today to stay sober-minded, knowing that our Jehovah Nissi– The Lord is our banner, who has all power and is forever faithful- gives us the victory in every battle brought on by the enemy!  

“Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:37-29.

May God bless you all with peace and love.