Strongholds

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“A wise man scales the city of the mighty and brings down the stronghold in which they trust.”

Proverbs 21:22

 

A stronghold is in fact something that has a strong hold over us. Strongholds are not easily dislodged otherwise they would be called weak-holds. It takes more than strength of will to bring down a stronghold. It takes wisdom.

Wisdom can be defined as “knowing what the greatest goal is in any situation, and what the best way is to achieve it.” (John Piper) When you talk about pulling down a stronghold, courage must also be involved. Knowing that a stronghold must go does not make the act of getting rid of it any easier. It takes hard work and great skill to scale the stronghold, whatever it may be.

It would seem that the greater the stronghold, the greater the wisdom is needed to bring it down. Every stronghold is different. Therefore, the solution to each one is different. Wisdom that is effective in one area will not be sufficient for another area. This is one reason why the wise are humble. The humble know that they need help and seek it out. Likewise, the wise know that “in abundance of counselors there is victory.” (Proverbs 24:6)

Some strongholds are pulled down by our own understanding and will. Others need the help of a team or even an army. Wisdom helps us to know what is needed for victory.

Lord Jesus, as we look to you for help against the spiritual strongholds in our lives, we ask for wisdom in the fight. Grant us victory for the sake of your name and your glory. Amen!

Devoted to keeping Jesus Christ the main thing.

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