Romans 12:1-2 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God
For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds; Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled (2 Cor.20:4-6).
The work of the ministry is a spiritual warfare with spiritual enemies, and for spiritual purposes. The key to overcoming mind influences is the Word of God. When we are influenced by evil thoughts or sights, we must seek the influence of the Word of God in our lives through prayer, God’s Word, and fellowship with Christians. This is a constant battle in the minds of Christians. Significantly, we must keep transforming our minds in conformity to the Will of God.
Importantly, we have on our side the full armor of God. Note the reading of Ephesians 6: 11-13
“Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; 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: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.”
In defeating Satan and attacks on our mind, we must use the Word of God, God’s armor, and the Blood of Christ. God’s armor knocks down the devil’s strongholds, refute arrogant arguments, and change rebellious hearts.
Rev. 12:11 "And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death."
We are humans but do not need to use human plans and methods to win our battles. They do not work and have little power against the work of Satan. God’s mighty weapons are available for us to use to fight against Satan’s strongholds. They are the only viable weapons that we have when fighting against principalities and powers of spiritual wickedness. Nothing can break down those evil barriers like God’s weapons.
Prayer, faith, hope, and the Holy Spirit are powerful and effective. They break down human arguments against God and then knock down the walls that Satan builds to keep people from finding God. Importantly, they keep the saints of God from coming into the evil influence of wickedness.
The weapons of the world are riches, education, personal influence, impressive credentials, or fame. The weapons Paul used when speaking to the Corinthians were the proclamation of God’s Word and prayer. These are weapons with divine power. By worldly standards, they are weak and often criticized or degraded; but in reality, they are able to demolish every argument that would oppose the will and purpose of God.
Significantly, no thought or mind influence is beyond God’s power.
Much of what we do is influenced by the mind. In order to overcome these mind influences God requires fellowship and obedience. Felowship is important because we learn the mind of God and are in constant communication with the Holy Spirit who leads and guides us into all truth.Obedience to His Word is necessary for a life of spiritual abundance and peace. True knowledge of the power of God in our lives and the Word of God are keys to living the abundant life. This knowledge makes one humble and obedient to God’s will. When we bring every thought (intent of the mind and will) into captivity to the obedience of Christ (to obey Christ) we open the door for success and spiritual prosperity in our lives.