Judges 6:2 – And the hand of Midian prevailed against Israel. Because of Midian the Israelites made themselves the dens which are in the mountains and the caves and the strongholds. (AMP)

Strongholds! The root word means "castle". Instead of leaning on God, the Israelites tried to protect themselves from their enemy in "castles" of their own making. Only then, did they discover that a stronghold isn't really like a castle. No. A stronghold is dark, damp, and cold. Fear hibernates there, creating untold dangers in the mind. Castle stronghold "safe places" never give real peace, security, or freedom. Some castle!

When evil (Midian) attacks, many of us head for our own castle strongholds. My Midian (child abuse) sent me into a stronghold called "eating disorder". It was my self-preservation place where I could bury feelings, actions, and responsibilities. I thought I could take care of the problem on my own. I thought I was king of my own castle. I fooled myself into believing that freedom lay in diet plans, weight-loss groups, and gyms.

When I asked Jesus into my life, He gave me courage and strength to step out of that dark place and fight for freedom. He gave me real weapons.

2 Corinthians 10:4 – For the weapons of our warfare are not physical [weapons of flesh and blood], but they are mighty before God for the overthrow and destruction of strongholds. (AMP)

When we ask God for help, He will send it, like He raised up Gideon for the Israelites. But first, we have to decide if we will let Him be king of our castle.

Prayer: Lord, when we fall into the phoney cave of self-protection, remind us to ask You for help, and then, help us to use it. In Christ's name. Amen.

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About the author:

Brenda Wood <brenda.w@nextcom.ca>
Sandycove Acres, Innisfil, Ontario, Canada
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