The mind is where we experience our most private thoughts, emotions, and ideas.

We retreat to this inner place when we have difficult decisions to make, life gets rough, or someone treats us badly. Ironically, our last bastion—our inner fortress and personal sanctuary—is also our greatest battlefield.

In our minds we fight our own desires, which, if left unchecked, give birth to sin. It’s also where we face our deepest fears, doubts, and insecurities.

In his word God warns us of the dangers of temptation:

“Let no one say when he is tempted, ‘I am tempted by God’; for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He Himself tempt anyone. But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death” (James 1:13–15 , NKJV).

Our temptations do not arise from God.

Rather, we battle a sinful nature that infiltrates our thinking and pulls us toward rebellion. So what’s the best defense? In military terms, we need to secure the perimeter. We must reject destructive thoughts rather than dwell on them. Then we should turn our hearts and minds toward God.

When temptation or misguided thoughts creep in, pray and meditate on God’s Word. Quote the promises of Scripture. Lift your voice in praise. Invite the Holy Spirit’s presence to permeate your mind and claim this battlefield of your mind for Jesus.