For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh:  (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through god to the pulling down of strong holds;)  Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of god, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.
II  Corinthians  10:3-5  -  NEB


Lindsay A. Semmens, one of my beloved college professors, developed an unusually descriptive interrogative sentence for use when talking about the false religious philosophies of men.  He would hold his hand high in the air and then with a giant swoop would nearly touch the floor while exclaiming,  "Why dive through fifty feet of sewage to get one scintilla of truth?"  that provocative question has stuck with me during my years of preaching the gospel.


With prophetic eye Paul got a  glimpse of our day when he said,  "The weapons we wield are not merely human"  (Verse 4,  NEB).  Foolish speculations, self-centered philosophies, and godless psychology surely form a part of the arsenal of carnal weapons.  The casualty list for professed Christians is extremely high because Satan's methods are so subtle, refined, and appealing to the natural mind of man.  There are certain laws dealing with the mind that, if properly understood and obeyed, can contribute to our success and happiness.  But above and beyond our ability to utilize the mental equipment God has given us is the need of a spiritual power that assures victory over the enemy.


There is only one sure, safe path.  There is only one effective weapon against sin and error.  it is a "Thus saith the Lord."  The power of the Word sealed in a man's heart can "demolish strongholds; ... demolish sophistries and all that rears its proud head against the knowledge of god"  (verses 4, 5, NEB)


God, in prodigal love for His children, has made His Word available throughout the ages.  In these final hours of earth's history He has deluged us with the greatest amount of special revelation any group of truth-seekers has ever known.  the eternal Word, amplified so magnificently by the spirit of Prophecy, is a source of vitamin-packed food for the soul.  Studied and followed earnestly, it will keep one on the track of truth.


taken from: First Things First
                      November 11
                 by: Bob Spangler