Devotional Thought

The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.

-2 Corinthians 10:4-5

One of the most pervasive lies in our time is the redefinition of identity, particularly around sex and gender. A major stronghold today is the idea that gender is self-determined and fluid, and that we can alter the sacred design of our bodies. This message is not simply cultural—it is spiritual. As history and Scripture show us, this confusion is rooted in ancient spiritual rebellion and demonic influence, personified in false gods like Ishtar/Ashtoreth who sought to deconstruct human sexuality.

But God, in His mercy and truth, calls us to live by the Spirit, walking in the identity He lovingly designed for each of us. When we align our lives with the Creator’s design, we find peace, joy, and wholeness. Our task is to speak truth in love, to pray for healing, and to point others toward the freedom of life in Christ.

We are called to resist cultural lies not with fear or anger, but with compassion, clarity, and conviction—demolishing strongholds and taking every thought captive for Christ.

Discussion Questions

1. What are some of the lies or narratives you see in culture today that seem to oppose God’s design for identity and gender?

2. How has your understanding of gender and identity been shaped by Scripture? Are there particular verses that have helped you think biblically about this topic?

3. What emotions or thoughts do you have when you see the rapid rise in gender confusion, especially among young people?

4. How do you personally stay grounded in truth when culture constantly reinforces opposing views?

5. The sermon draws connections between ancient pagan deities and today’s cultural ideologies. Does that historical-spiritual link change how you view current trends in identity?

6. Have you ever experienced a moment when God corrected a belief or identity you had accepted from culture? What was that like?

7. How is the Spirit inviting you to “take every thought captive” in your own life, especially as it relates to truth, compassion, and courage in this conversation?