Examining what we focus our thoughts on may reveal areas in which have become idols or strongholds.

To the followers of Yahweh, a stronghold is any area in our thinking that is not in line with the truth of God’s Word and who we are in Him. An idol is anything that we put more faith in than we do the power and goodness of our Heavenly Father. For example, I had a stronghold in the belief that God was an angry and just waiting to punish me. The wonderful truth is that those who believe in Jesus have been made righteous by His blood, and have become children of the Most High God. My fear of punishment did not line up with the Word of Yahweh. 1 John 4:18 states that love never brings fear, for fear is always related to punishment, but His perfect love drives the fear of punishment far from our hearts. Thinking and mediating on His love will bring freedom from fear.

Idols are just not just figures of animals or people that are worship or pray too, but are things, people, and or circumstances that take more precedence in our lives than Yahweh. An example, an idol in my life was food. I used food like someone would use alcohol. I turned to food to calm my anxiety, instead of turning to Yahweh, who has promised peace and security. Running to food first instead of seeking Yahweh’s rest, was affecting my health and did not bring lasting peace. The breaking down of wrong belief systems and idols in our lives begins with trusting our Creator, who has made us and wants to see us prosper and be in health. Where do you focus your thoughts? Are they producing more fear or despair? I encourage you today to go to the Father, and ask Him to reveal His love for you. He is very very good and He loves you.

For as he thinks in his heart, so is he. Proverbs 23:7

You will keep him in perfect peace, Whose mind is stayed on You, Because he trusts in You. Isaiah 26:3