In the Old Testament, the dignitaries would sit in the gates. Archeologists have unearthed some of the of Solemonic gates at Gezer, Hazor, Meggido. Men would approach the city, but they had to stop at the gate and request permission to enter. You must realize that you sit at the gate of your own soul. To have a fortified soul you must remain sober, and diligent to guard the entrance with an undeminishing resolve, to ward off anything that would compromise your stand on the word of God. Then the mind remains strong and so does your life.
1 Peter 5:8,9
8 “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:” 9 “Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.”