Spiritual strongholds are negative thought patterns and behaviors rooted in deception that hold us back from freedom in Christ. As a believer, learning to identify and tear down these strongholds is key to walking in victory.
What is a Spiritual Stronghold?
A stronghold is a mindset, belief or habit that has such a firm grip in our lives that it feels unbreakable. Strongholds develop through repeated deception, sinful choices, or by believing lies from the enemy. They manifest through ongoing issues like addiction, anger, anxiety and more.
Ephesians 6:12 reminds us that our battle is not against flesh and blood, but against demonic powers. The enemy uses lies and accusations to gain footholds that anchor strongholds. 2 Corinthians 10:4-5 declares that we demolish these with God’s truth.
Strongholds Lead to Spiritual Bondage
Where there is spiritual bondage, there is deception. Strongholds keep us trapped by directing our thoughts, emotions and behaviors. The enemy uses them to wreak havoc in our lives.
Many Christians accept defeat as normal. But Jesus said the truth sets us free (John 8:32). We can break free from ingrained strongholds through His power. The truth exposes the enemy’s lies behind the issues we face.
Identifying Open Doors That Allow Strongholds
Certain “open doors” give demonic influence access to anchor strongholds. These include:
- Unhealthy connections – Bad company corrupts good character (1 Corinthians 15:33). Ungodly influences impart compromise.
- Unguarded eyes and ears – What goes in affects the mind. Violent, immoral or occultic input creates vulnerability through images, ideas and words.
- Negative emotional states – Anger, exhaustion, confusion, fear. While not inherently sinful, they reduce self-control.
- The mouth – Destructive substances that harm the body weaken our physical and spiritual condition.
By becoming aware of open doors, we can close them through godly discipline and the Holy Spirit’s help. This removes the legal ground that the enemy uses to deceive us.
Common Stronghold Types
- Accusation – Constant guilt and shame over past or present sins. The feeling of undeserved blessing.
- Fear – Anxieties, phobias, worry. Imagining the worst case scenario.
- Pride – Self-importance, arrogance, lack of teachability. Disdain for correction or advice.
- Addiction – Reliance on alcohol, drugs, sex, pornography. Any compulsive behavior that controls us.
- Bitterness – Resentment, unforgiveness, anger issues. Holding grudges and desiring revenge.
- Rebellion – Disobedience, defiance, distrust of authority. Resisting God-given order and counsel.
- Insecurity – Feeling unloved, inferior or condemned. Doubting one’s value and belonging.
How to Tear Down Strongholds
2 Corinthians 10:4-5 says we demolish strongholds with “divine power to destroy strongholds.” Here’s how to tear them down:
- Rebuke the enemy – Take authority in Jesus’ name for him to flee (James 4:7). Don’t tolerate demonic harassment.
- Renew your mind with truth – Combat lies with Scripture. Receive God’s acceptance and breakthrough promises.
- Receive inner healing – Emotional wounds often accompany strongholds. Pray for Jesus to heal past hurts. Forgive those who caused pain.
- Change behaviors – Starve fleshly habits and ignore condemning thoughts. Make choices to walk in freedom.
As we dismantle strongholds through these steps, replacing them with God’s truth, we’ll see transformation in every area of life.
Key Bible Verses
- Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. (James 4:7)
- You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free. (John 8:32)
- I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. (Galatians 2:20)
- Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. (Romans 12:2)
Let’s devote ourselves to knowing God’s truth, rejecting the enemy’s lies, and seeing every stronghold demolished! Jesus alone is the way to freedom.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some symptoms of a spiritual stronghold?
- Habitual sin or addiction
- Chronic anger, anxiety, fear or depression
- Ongoing difficulties in a specific area of life
- Hyper-emotional reactions and behaviors
- Hearing condemning voices in one’s mind
- Intrusive thoughts that won’t go away
What does the Bible say about spiritual warfare?
The Bible acknowledges real spiritual battles but insists believers have power and authority in Christ to overcome. Key verses include Ephesians 6:10-18, James 4:7-8, 2 Corinthians 10:3-5, 1 John 4:4, and Romans 8:31-39.
How do you break a stronghold?
- Ask God to reveal any open doors giving the enemy access. Confess and repent.
- Command demonic spirits fueling the stronghold to flee in Jesus’ name.
- Identify any lies you’re believing and replace them with God’s truth.
- Receive inner healing through prayer for emotional wounds. Forgive those who hurt you.
- Persevere in faith that you are free in Christ as you walk out the transformation.
What is spiritual blindness?
Spiritual blindness is being unable to perceive God’s truth. It often accompanies demonic strongholds keeping us trapped in destructive thinking and behaviors. It results from believing lies and resisting the conviction of the Holy Spirit.
How does fasting help break spiritual strongholds?
Fasting is abstaining from food for spiritual purposes. It humbles us, expresses reliance on God, and intensifies our prayers. Fasting weakens the fleshly cravings the enemy uses against us. It also helps refocus our minds on eternal truths versus temporary gratification.
