The Devil Isn't Putting Things Into Your Mind

It is funny how mortals always picture us putting things into their minds: in reality our best work is done by keeping things out (The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis, 2001, p16).

Screwtape tells Wormwood that their best work is done by keeping things out of someone’s mind. Fighting to empty your mind—even of sinful thoughts—can be fighting for the wrong side. Why?

When an unclean spirit goes out of a man, he goes through dry places, seeking rest; and finding none, he says, ‘I will return to my house from which I came.’ And when he comes, he finds it swept and put in order. Then he goes and takes with him seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter and dwell there; and the last state of that man is worse than the first (Luke 11:24-26 NKJV)

An empty man just makes more room for more demons. Instead be cleansed by Christ.

You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you. Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me (John 15:3-4 NKJV).

Once Christ has cleansed you and you abide in Him and He in you, then you can think on good things.

Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things (Philippians 4:8 NKJV).

So instead of trying so hard to empty your mind of sinful thoughts—and falling into despair when it doesn’t work—turn to Christ, believe in His Good News, and fill your mind with good thoughts.

What do you think?
Joseph