Exposed

Sometimes, when I let it all go-my inner struggles, my insecurities, my downfalls-I feel exposed. Naked. It's not the liberating feeling like walking around in your house in your birthday suit with not a care in the world. It's a vulnerable, cold, frightening situation in which we almost miss those things that we cling to for comfort, for "normalcy". I know it sounds jacked up, but seriously, think about it! Why do we continue to do hold onto things we know aren't good for us?

 They make us feel  "safe" and "in control". Honestly, I think I enjoy worrying, obsessing, and trying to achieve perfection. It's empowering. Lists make me feel in control. Obsessive thoughts make me feel on top of my game and motivated. Achieving perfection in every way gives me a sense of accomplishment. However, it's dangerous-mentally and physically...and spiritually.

These struggles and worries that society sometimes deems ok and normal AREN'T ok. They are called STRONGHOLDS. The Bible makes it completely clear where they come from and what they can do to a Christian. They keep us in the shadows. They can pull us into the complete darkness. We aren't in control-Satan has the chains bound to your thoughts, your body, your mind.

Ephesians 6:12 strongly warns: "For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places."

When we expose these things, we bring them to light. Once in the light, we can become aware of the truths and dangers of the strongholds. Peter 5:8 states, "Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour." This can be liberating. It can be completely freeing. So go ahead. Get naked. Expose what's inside. We as Christians have the power to conquer our strongest demons, our debilitating fears and our own worst enemies. It should be the best feeling in the world. You can truly be in control---if you give God the control.

"For though we walk in the flesh, we are not waging war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds. We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ." ~2 Corinthians 10:3-5