seven requirements
“The weapons with which we fight are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds” (2 Cor 10:3-5).
Jerry grew up with a father who was a successful working man. Although he lacked nothing materially, he never felt much affection or compassion from his parents. Then, when Jerry was still in his teens, his father died suddenly. His large family left little support, and insecurity and fear became the dominating factors in the young man’s life. Promising himself that he would never lack financial needs again, Jerry worked hard at his business. The stronghold of idolatry brought dependence on self-accumulated wealth rather than prayerful dependence on God.
Arguments over money dominated their marriage. Mistrust and greed permeated his domestic and business relationships. No one can “stand before him” and tell him what to do. Ultimately, as his marriage broke down and his business showed signs of closing, Jerry abandoned the strongholds of insecurity and fear that had idolized money and shaped his distrustful view of God’s ability to provide for his needs.
As soon as the Holy Spirit brought conviction of the sins committed against so many people, He intended to seek forgiveness from each person and make reparations where appropriate. His priorities became focused on God and family, then on close friends and business. As a result God began to restore balance and intimacy with God and other people.
God created man with seven primary needs as depicted in Genesis 1 and 2. Each of us needs:
1. Dignity
2. Rights
3. Blessings and provisions
4. Security
5. Purpose and meaning
6. Freedom
and limit
7. Intimate love and cooperation
Whenever we seek to meet one or more of these basic needs outside of God’s plan we have set the stage for the development of a generational stronghold. In the case of Jerry, who in this case is the writer, he needed to discover the needs he was attempting to fulfill through the demonic stronghold of insecurity and fear.
Generational strongholds can impact our relationships with God and others. Today, why not start examining the root issues that may be affecting you or your family.
