Most people struggle with things from their past because they do not allow the Spirit to renew them in the present. Their destinies are stolen or destroyed because they were unaware of how spiritual strongholds develop. Strongholds are built up through various methods, providing Satan with a base of operations.  We are well aware of Satan's sinister tendencies. However, it extends beyond that. Satan's troops want to establish long-term strongholds where they may rule and hold people prisoner, adding to the everyday harassing, tempting, or hit-and-run attacks. Demonic powers look for individuals and situations where they can flourish with minimal resistance. Spiritual strongholds are conflicts, stances, and ideas opposed to God's intentions. These mental patterns are based on what we know and believe and inevitably shape our actions. The Bible uses the term to describe harmful thought patterns, arrogant attitudes, or messages from the outside world that have left a lasting impression on Christians' minds and hearts. Over time, these beliefs can become strongholds in the spiritual realm that people need to destroy using the truth of God's Word. Samson, a powerful individual, capitulated to a stronghold. Like many Christians, Samson was born to win, yet the Philistines took him as a prisoner. Samson's life offers a wealth of lessons.  He was a strong man who would eventually turn into a man of sorrow. Samson's story is a picture for the downtrodden Christian: our sin is the biggest obstacle to receiving God's power. And despite having God's strength, we frequently fall short of our potential.  Samson had (literal and figurative) “climbed into bed” with the world, and as a result, the world had a firm grip on him. His obsession with Delilah and his love for her served as his stronghold. He lost his spiritual vigor because he had turned away from dedication and obedience to the Lord due to her great influence over him. This stronghold, which appeared like an angel, was a demon.  Judges 16 Today I glorify God in my life and walk in authority.  I surrender my thoughts, will, intellect, emotions and imagination in complete obedience to the Word of God.  I believe the Word and I speak in faith.  I command all strongholds and mental thought patterns not in Gods will for my life broken and cast out! I declare circumstances are changing in my favor & I have what I say! My body belongs to God and I make my flesh obey the Word.  I am healed mentally, emotionally and physically. I resist the temptation to sin or to go back to my old way of living. The devil is under my feet & nothing shall by any means harm me. No plague shall come near my house. I am anointed!  I overcome all attacks and any setback of the enemy by the blood of Jesus & the Words of my mouth. No weapon formed against me shall prosper! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/felicia721/message