Word Prisons
One of the most formidable prisons ever created is the prison manifested by words; words that become brick and mortar, ceilings and bars. These prisons are as inconspicuous as they are common. The security system is so cunning they are often unnoticed by their victims: “I don't know why I can’t move on,” “I wish I could push past this,” I don’t know what’s stopping me,” “Something just has me stuck.” Thoughts like these emanate from inside prison walls forged by the very words downloaded from those we respect and love.
But how do I find a way out of here if I can’t even see that I’m in here? Ahhhh turn the lights on! Yes, the light of truth for “the truth will set you free” (John 8:32) Prisons built by words can only be deconstructed by truth. Lies prefer to remain in the darkness, buried in the recesses of our minds where we cannot see that they are shaping and molding us. Turn on the light of truth and the lies will not only become crippled, they will have to vacate the premises of your thoughts and thereby your emotions and behavior. Every truth you proclaim over false words spoken into you will remove a brick.
Be aware that the first truth to be proclaimed is that of authority. “Life and death are in the power of the tongue”. You have power to speak life, hope and truth because of the Holy Spirit within you. You must understand that your atmosphere, yes even inside of a prison, responds to what you speak. “You will also declare a thing, And it will be established for you; So light will shine on your ways.” (Job 22:28) Or as The Message Bible puts it “your life will be bathed in light.” Ahhhh a bath in light… how refreshing is the very thought? And even more so after being dragged through the mud emotionally and psychologically. You have the power to speak well over yourself until prison walls crumble and you walk in freedom and light.
I’ll give you some starters to decree:
God has not given me the spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind. (2 Timothy 1:7)
I am strong in the Lord and the power of His might as I put on the whole armor of God and stand against all the wiles of the devil. (Ephesians 6:11)
God is my refuge and strength, a very present help in times of trouble. (Psalms 46:1)
Wealth and riches shall be in my house because I fear the Lord. (Psalm 112:3)
This is a wonderful place to include God in this conversation. Let’s pray. Father, I thank you for the present help you are. Without you I would have never been able to navigate the pits and emotional prisons to survive this far. I bless you for the power you have given me by your Spirit and I will not leave this power dormant a day longer. Today I speak life over my heart. I speak peace to the troubled waters of my heart. I speak abundance over my ability to love myself and others. I speak joy over my soul. Thank you Lord for directing me to a place of peace and power and out of these prison walls. You are more intimate than the light of the world, you are my light in darkness. In your name Jesus, Amen.