Strongholds! Where Do They Come From? II Corinthians 10:1-6 Introduction A thought only becomes a stronghold when we embrace it! Dr. Bob, Sr.: “Behind every tragedy of human character lays a long process of wicked thinking.” Introduction John 8:31-34 Notice it is only in knowing the truth that we find the power to overcome the bondage of sin. The Devil spends a lot of time convincing people that they are missing something if they give up sin. I. Does Your Mind Keep Focusing on a Past Event? A. God does not want us dwelling on past events. B. God wants us dwelling on Him. C. Bitterness means you’ve allowed a stronghold to develop. II. Are You Committed to a Course of Action Contrary to Scripture? A. Trying to justify it and disregarding what God has to say? B. Trying to excuse your action? C. A stronghold can be an action you know is contrary to scripture. III. You Have a Stronghold If You Resist the Word of God. A. Think, “God’s Word doesn’t apply to this situation”? B. Acts 17:11 C. Instead of resisting, we need to be accepting. The Bible is always right. IV. You Have a Stronghold If You Focus on the Actions of Others. A. Compare self with someone doing worse things? B. Romans 14:12 C. Actions of others cannot excuse our sin. V. You Have a Stronghold If You Are Defensive When Confronted. A. How do you respond when someone Biblically corrects your behavior? B. Proverbs 13:1 / Romans 13 C. If we won’t listen to authority, we remain bound by a stronghold. VI. You Have a Stronghold If Your Mind Holds Any Unscriptural Idea. A. Need to examine your thinking according to the Word of God. B. Ephesians 4:25-27 C. Danger- it can lead to sin and keep you from God’s blessings. D. John 10:10 – God wants us to have an abundant life. E. The Devil wants to ruin your life completely and absolutely. Philippians 4:8