“Capture every thought to make it obey Christ” (2 Cor. 10:5). “Be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Rom. 12:2). “Those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit” (Rom. 8:5).
Lord Jesus, nothing is more daily, automatic, important, liberating (or enslaving) than our thinking processes. Paul’s graphic expression, “capture every thought for obedience to Christ” made me think of walking around the North Carolina State Fair as a kid. Every game booth worker, food stand cook, and ride operator worked hard to get my attention, engagement, and pocket full of quarters.
Jesus, that’s kind of what it feels like in 2022. We live in a big State Fair with carnival barkers, sideshow operators, snake oil salesmen, and illusionists clamoring, not just for our “pocket of quarters,” but for our everything. Quite honestly, it’s discipleship—whole life formation.
They don’t wear clown outfits, for that would be too obvious. They come to us camouflaged as network broadcasters, social media voices, and our most trendy, envied peers. But they also live inside us, as our loudest fears, deepest insecurities, and most treasured idols of the heart. Help us Jesus, rescue us.
You alone deserve our attention, allegiance, affection, and adoration. Jesus, by the work of the Holy Spirit, may your beauty, truth, and love be the most compelling and transforming realities in our lives. You aren’t an add-on, App, or operating system. Jesus, you are our Creator, Redeemer, and King—our righteousness, peace, and hope… and so much more. Hallelujah! So Very Amen.
