As I look upon this crazy world, I am often overwhelmed by the challenges many are facing in what has become the most chaotic season of my lifetime.
Chaos rages. The pandemic hangs on, and after 18 months of turmoil, many are weary. Mental illness is rising.
And the challenges of this day are not just tied to the virus. The amount of vitriol and hatred spewed over social media and in our communities is heartbreaking. The results of these challenges often lead us to confusion, frustration and despair.
I have many who have reached out to me in this season and asked, “What can we do to rise above the despair and live victorious and productive lives?” My response is that we “must set our minds on things above” (Colossians 3:2).
As a Christian, I am not surprised that the world in which we live is groaning. Scripture tells us there is an evil one who desires to steal, kill and destroy us. Spiritual warfare is real, and the battle for hope begins in our minds. If we are to win this battle, then we must take captive every thought.
For those who have a relationship with Jesus Christ, we have been given a hope and a future. Let us set our minds on the truth found in God’s Word. Never forget that Jesus said, “In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world” (Matthew 16:33).
So, how do we mentally fight the confusion and despair? We must interrupt the oppressive thoughts and set our minds on the things that give us clear direction and purpose.
Realize that “We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying in the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be manifested in our bodies” (2 Corinthians 4:8-10).
If we set our minds on the first part of each of the phrases above — afflicted, crushed, perplexed and forsaken — we will become overwhelmed with confusion and despair. The good news of our faith is that we are not defined by these things.
Rather, it is the second part of each of these phrases above that gives us hope in the chaos of these days. Because of Jesus Christ, we are NOT crushed! We are NOT driven to despair! We are NOT forsaken! And we will NOT be destroyed.
2 Corinthians 10:4-5 tells us the weapons we use to fight the mental battles with confusion and despair are not of this world. Rather, they are from above. Therefore, “We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ … .” Let us take captive every thought.
“Finally… whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things” (Philippians 4:8).
My friends, we who know Jesus Christ are promised victory! Let us battle with confidence the destructive thoughts of the enemy. Set your minds and walk in the truth of God’s Word!
Mark Adcock is pastor of New Life Christian Fellowship in Fortville. This weekly column is written by local clergy members. Send comments to dr-editorial@ greenfieldreporter.com.
