“For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in Go for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ.” 2 Corinthians 10:4-5
I can speculate the words or actions of a fellow neighbor, friend or family member; until I work myself into a tizzy. That old saying, “Sticks and stones may break my bones but words can never hurt me,” is a lie from the pit of hell. If we allow them; words can wound a soul so deeply, the hearer can fall into deep, dark depression.
If we turn on the recorder in our head, we will play hurtful words over and over; until the conversation or action is blown up like a massive helium balloon, consuming our every waking thought. My thought life becomes totally out of control. It’s such a waste of time. Only God knows how many times I have allowed my enemy to influence my joy, hope and peace. All because of speculation!
Speculation brings strife and discord to every believer. It poisons the life of the one speculating and affects the ongoing relationship with the one about whom you are speculating.
Satan cannot have our souls, but he can and will gladly put weights upon you; that you were never meant to bear. He delights to render you fruitless in your life’s witness. He will pour out a heaping measure of speculation; so that a believer cannot think of anything else. The thoughts you should be having; those that are pure, lovely and of good report, cannot begin to form in your mind.
So what’s a Christian to do? We are to say: STOP! NO MORE! Next; we must choose to take that memory or thought captive. Put it in a prison cell and throw away the key. Replace those all consuming, joy stealing, hope depleting thoughts, with a promise from God’s Word.
“I can do all things through Christ that strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13
“No weapon formed against you shall prosper.” Isaiah 54:17
“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” Romans 12:2
“Therefore let us pursue the things which make for peace and the things by which one may edify another.” Romans 14:19
“No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.” 1 Corinthians 10:13
There is a powerful way to deal with this thing we call speculation. Hide God’s Word in your heart. Tell your enemy what “thus says the LORD your God.” Do not give him a toe hold. If you give him an inch, he’ll take a mile.
Prayer in Motion:
Jesus, I dedicate my mind to You this day. I choose to put on the helmet of salvation and ask that You help me to continually “take every thought captive to Your obedience.” May I not give in to my own thoughts. Your ways are higher than mine dear Lord. May I discipline myself to STOP, put those speculations into prison and replace everyone with the powerful WORD of God! In Jesus Name. Amen
