John Eldredge is an author and therapist. Recently in an interview he said: “The war for the human heart is the epicentre of the war in the world.”*

That made me stop and think. I hope it makes you stop and think as well.

First, it reminds us that there is in fact a war for the human heart. This is a war for our very souls. It is about ultimate allegiances and priorities. Who are we? Who do we belong to? Will I live out my God-given calling, or not?

Second, his statement reminds us that this war is the “epicentre” of another one—the war in the world.

Usually when we think about wars “out there” in the world, we don’t usually make a connection to what is happening on the inside of us. And, of course, to a degree that’s true. As far as I know, none of us—or, at least, very few of us—are making far-reaching decisions about global conflicts.

Eldredge’s point, however, is that what happens inside of us the main battleground. All over the world, what is happening “out there” is the overflow of what is happening on the inside of people.

In 2 Corinthians 10:5 Paul explains that in spiritual warfare we need to “take every thought captive to obey Christ…” The implication is that unchecked thoughts and ideas can run wild. In fact, they can work against us in the fight against evil and darkness. Our thoughts need to be taken captive. Only then can we wage (spiritual) battle effectively.

What is happening on the inside of you?

Are your thoughts rooted in the Word of God, or the modern spirit of subjectivity? Are they predominantly proud, or humble? Are they self-serving, or others-serving? Are they angry, or patient? Are they calibrated to the kingdom of Jesus, or the domain of darkness (Colossians 1:13-14)? 

Let’s take every thought captive to Christ. “The war for the human heart is the epicentre of the war in the world.”*

Notes:

-“What God is doing—not only around you, but in you” Click here. Sermon.
-*Quoted in: “Giving The Enemy No Foothold with John Eldredge” on The Exorcist Files podcast. February 4, 2026. Interview with host Ryan Bethea.
-Bible quotes are from the ESV.