How to Deal with Unwanted Intrusive Thoughts (for Christians)
Nobody wants to deal with unwanted intrusive thoughts! This article is written specifically with Christians in mind- authored by a licensed Christian Counselor. As Christians, we navigate all things related to mental health through the lens of His Word. Get the answers to the tough questions…
What are intrusive thoughts?
What are examples of intrusive thoughts?
Do intrusive thoughts mean anything?
Can intrusive thoughts be triggered?
Is it a sin if you have intrusive thoughts?
Are blasphemous thoughts unforgivable?
What are intrusive thoughts?
Intrusive thoughts are unwanted thoughts, images or impulses. When you look up the definition of intrusive, it is defined as “causing disruption or annoyance through being unwelcome or uninvited”. Intrusive thoughts can sometimes be triggered by something in the environment or they can just pop into your mind for no apparent reason.
Unwanted intrusive thoughts are something that everyone experiences at times. However, these thoughts can create distress; so why do intrusive thoughts create so much distress? Well, here is the short answer… If unwanted intrusive thoughts are causing you much distress, you are likely attaching meaning to a thought that means nothing.
Does everyone have intrusive thoughts?
Research shows that nearly everyone experiences intrusive thoughts at times. “Everyone” includes Christians having unwanted intrusive thoughts, as well. This can be encouraging to know you’re not alone. Every person is different; some may experience disturbing thoughts more frequently than others. The types of unwanted thoughts and images vary from person to person. Additionally, the level of distress that is caused by such thoughts will vary based on how we view and evaluate the thoughts that we’re experiencing.
Can intrusive thoughts be triggered?
This is a great question! The answer is sometimes yes. Sometimes we have intrusive thoughts triggered by an external event, memory or situation. Other times the unwanted thoughts can simply pop into our mind for no apparent reason.
People tend to ask if an intrusive thought can be triggered for a couple of reasons. First, due to shame often being associated with the intrusive thought, if we try to pin it on something external, then it feels less shameful. In other words, it’s a way to manage the emotion of shame. And secondly, if we can figure out a trigger then we can avoid the trigger, thereby avoiding the shame associated with the disturbing thought we are experiencing. The best solution is to change what we believe about the intrusive thought rather than trying to avoid the intrusive thought. (More on that shortly.)
What are examples of intrusive thoughts?
If you are reading this article, you’re probably experiencing intrusive or unwanted thoughts. Above I spoke of intrusive thoughts in a very general way. However, you’re probably thinking, “You don’t know what these thoughts are“… They are sexual, violent, bizarre, blasphemous or really dark and negative. Yes – that’s what unwanted intrusive thoughts are in nature. Remember everyone experiences these thoughts at times.
Sexual Thoughts
It is not unusual to experience sexual thoughts at times regardless of your gender. Sexual thoughts can be shocking or make us feel uncomfortable. As a result we work even harder to push the thoughts away and end up fixating on the very thoughts we want to get rid of. Remember, these are just thoughts and we can let them just pass.
Bizarre or Paranoid Thoughts
Experiencing bizarre or paranoid thoughts is another type of disturbing thought you may experience. But, once again, resist the temptation to believe this means something about you. Rather, allow the thought to simply pass.
Violent Thoughts
Sometimes unwanted intrusive thoughts can be violent in nature. The thought might be related to one harming themselves or others. This only becomes a concern if your violent thoughts move you to planning to follow through on the violent thoughts. If this is the case, seek professional help. Otherwise, allow the thought to pass.
Blasphemous Thoughts
Blasphemous thoughts are unwanted thoughts that call God‘s work evil. It refers to great disrespect shown to God. Many Christians have a fear that unwanted intrusive thoughts that are blasphemous in nature are unforgivable (more on that below). As a result, fear, guilt and shame can become overwhelming. Once again, remember that all fall short and nothing is too big for the forgiveness Christ offers. Christians must avoid the temptation to attach meaning to such thoughts. A Christian’s salvation and identity are in Christ alone and completely secure.
Are blasphemous thoughts unforgivable?
Many Christians worry that they have committed the unforgivable or unpardonable sin – blasphemy. Christians who are dealing with unwanted intrusive thoughts wonder, are blasphemous thoughts unforgivable? This fear may be rooted in the verse that indicates speaking against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven (Matthew 12:32).
However, we must take care not to take a verse out of context. Instead, we must look at the entirety of Scripture. This verse was not intended to bring further despair or overwhelm on anyone struggling with intrusive thoughts. Jesus was speaking to the Pharisees/religious leaders who could see the power of the Holy Spirit working in Jesus as He performed miracles and fulfilled every prophecy regarding the promised Messiah. They were willfully and knowingly calling God‘s work evil.
As we look to the entirety of Scripture, we know that Scripture indicates nothing is beyond the forgiveness of Christ’s work on the cross. A beautiful example of God‘s enormous grace is the testimony of Paul. Previously known as Saul, he killed Christians, persecuting and exterminating anyone who professed Christ. If God can save him and powerfully use him to expand his kingdom, then He can use you and I! Check out these verses on the amazing grace of God:
Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The Lord, the Lord himself, is my strength and my defense; he has become my salvation. Isaiah 12:2
“The law was brought in so that the trespasses might increase. But where sin increase, grace increased all the more,”… Romans 5:20
Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them. Hebrews 7:25
Is it a sin if you have intrusive thoughts?
As a Christian, disturbing thoughts can activate a great deal of shame. Shame is the heaviest emotion of human experiences in my opinion. It’s even the first human emotion identified in the Bible all the way back in Genesis regarding Adam and Eve and the forbidden fruit. Certainly, nobody desires to experience lustful thoughts or violent thoughts. But, the reality is that everyone does experience such thoughts. Labeling unwelcome intrusive thoughts as sinful thoughts or bad thoughts is not a productive way to address such thoughts.
Instead of condemning or beating yourself up, let’s talk about how to manage and even stop the intrusive thoughts so you can get back to putting your energy into the things God has entrusted to you.
Do intrusive thoughts mean anything?
People often ask, “do intrusive thoughts mean anything?” But what they really mean to ask is, “Do intrusive thoughts mean anything about me?” As I mentioned earlier, we tend to attach meaning to ourselves when we have an intrusive thought. In other words we personalize the thought. We wrongly believe that the mere existence of the thought means we are bad.
As a result shame and guilt gets activated within us. Shame and guilt are the feelings that flow from the thoughts. Let’s talk about how the sequence of events works.
First, the intrusive thought pops into your mind. Maybe something triggered it or maybe the unwanted thought just appeared. Second, the belief or initial thought comes. “This means something is wrong with me“. Next, we will experience emotions from the thoughts. Those emotions are shame and guilt typically. And a quick definition of shame: shame is a painful emotion that causes us to believe we are worthless and of no value to others or God, unacceptable and worthy of rejection.
Finally, this emotion will move us to isolate, withdraw and ultimately hide from God and others. Let’s summarize – intrusive thoughts activate a sequence of thoughts and emotions within us. Next, we believe and think something is wrong with us and then experience negative emotions (typically guilt and shame). As a result we act on those emotions by withdrawing, hiding and keeping our disturbing thoughts to ourselves.
Anxiety and Intrusive Thoughts
Unwanted intrusive thoughts and anxiety may or may not be connected. Remember, research shows nearly everyone experiences unwanted intrusive thoughts, although many researchers believe everyone has thoughts at times that are violent, sexual, blasphemous, bizarre or negative and dark in nature. Here is the main difference; how the thoughts are judged! Someone who may have clinical anxiety or OCD may have an unwanted intrusive thought and are more likely to view their thoughts as bad, immoral, shameful, sinful, etc.
As a result more time is spent worrying about the implications of the unwanted thoughts and increasingly focus on the thought and engage in self condemnation. Whereas someone who does not have clinical anxiety is more likely to dismiss the thought and move on with their day without giving the unwanted intrusive thought more headspace.
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and Intrusive Thoughts
Obsessive compulsive disorder (simply defined) is a pattern of distressing thoughts and fears (obsession) that lead to repetitive behaviors (compulsion) in an effort to decrease or manage the distress experienced from the thoughts. I can’t emphasize enough… Everyone experiences intrusive thoughts at times. Anyone with clinical anxiety will respond to such thoughts with negative judgment, focus on the thoughts and experience negative emotions such as fear, shame and embarrassment. In the absence of clinical anxiety, experiencing an intrusive thought will be easily let go and not assigned any meaning at all.
How to Stop Intrusive Thoughts
Nobody enjoys horrible thoughts popping into their mind. As Christians, we must figure out how to take thoughts captive. And the weapons of our warfare are knowledge of God‘s Word, and prayer. Both weapons wielded in the power of the Holy Spirit.
As a Christian counselor and life coach I weave biblical truth with research based treatment. God‘s Word has been telling us to take thoughts captive long before cognitive behavioral therapy came along, but the two are actually synonymous.
Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it. Proverbs 4:23
The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. 2 Corinthians 10:4–5
Christians who are seeking to take disturbing thoughts captive will become aware of thoughts, feelings and internal dialogue. We are trying to identify the lies; next we exchange the lies for the truth. While this sounds simple it is difficult. However, if God‘s Word calls us to do something such as taking thoughts captive, we can trust God to help us, empower and enable us to do His will.
Taking Unwanted and Intrusive Thoughts Captive as Christians.
1. Identify the activating thought. This step will be more straightforward. Name the unwanted thought that activates the distressing emotions.
2. What are you saying to yourself about the thoughts? You are likely attaching meaning to yourself based on the unwanted ant thoughts and images. Name the judgments you are making about the intrusive thought.
3. What feelings are coming up? Name those uncomfortable emotions. Shame, guilt, and fear are common negative emotions associated with intrusive thoughts. You may be interested in the article, “What does the Bible say about emotions?”.
4. Are you doing something to manage your emotions? Pay attention to your reaction. Do you tend to withdraw and isolate? What is your response to those emotions?
5. Now it’s time to seek God‘s Word to help trade lies for Truth. We find that in His Word, the Sword of the Spirit is one of our greatest weapons. Choose some Scriptures to confront what you’re saying to yourself. For instance if you are condemning yourself (as identified and step two), grab a verse that aligns with Truth.
“Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus”… Romans 8:1
Get the free five day email course on taking thoughts captive– authored by a Christian counselor trained in cognitive behavioral therapy and equipped with knowledge of God and His Word.
Get information on Christian counseling and life coaching here.
Wrapping Up Intrusive Thoughts and Christians
If there’s anything you walk away with today let it be this: first, everyone experiences unwanted intrusive thoughts at times. Second, resist the temptation to judge yourself for the disturbing thoughts. A thought is just a thought – let it go! Third, God calls us to take thoughts captive. He will help us in the battle of the mind!
Hey Sunshyne,
Thanks and God bless for this article. It’s really helpful! This is something i really needed in 2020 when I struggled with this a lot. I have a question though – when taking captive intrusive thoughts, it seems like someone might fixate on it whilst going through the steps rather than just let it pass. How do you merge these two concepts without falling into the trap of letting it pass and not fixating whilst taking it captive?
That’s a great question, Grace. Letting the thought pass would become a skill with practice; taking thoughts captive incorporates saying a new thing to ourselves. In other words- we attach meaning to intrusive thoughts, to ourselves. We have to identify if we are attaching lies to ourselves- the “letting the thought pass” would be what we do as a result of taking thoughts captive. Hope that helps:)
I appreciate your recommendation of these blogs because I am always searching for OCD blogs. I have also learned a lot of new things. I will share with others.
Wow. I have had intrusive sexual thoughts (People and Jesus.) since I was 11. ???? Now 44. I have had so much guilt and shame over it. I only recently learned that it’s linked to OCD. I pray about it. I wonder if this is my spiritual battle to deal with as long as I’m here. I don’t want to deal with it anymore. I’m tired. 33 years now. It’s gotten worse in the last couple of months.
I totally understand. I have to deal with that same thing. Since I was in 3rd grade I noticed these weird sexual thoughts popping up in my head and it has become worse as I have gotten older. I really want to get help but I feel embarrassed and shameful about it. I need some advice.
I’m really struggling with intrusive blasphemous thoughts.. but my sin is that I’ve worried that much, dwelt on them, trued tl work out if I meant them or did on purpose etc, to the point where they are triggered so easily and I feel like I’ve thought them (said them in my head) and agreed with the thought, so now I think I’ve completely blown it with God, when I didn’t want these thought in the first place.. I’m a mess..
Hi Karen, I get where you are coming from. Reading your post reminds me of myself in the past. But Karen, there is hope! Praise God! I no longer struggle near as much with believing that those intrusive thoughts will separate me from God & that they have condemned me. In fact, I rarely have them anymore (while before I had them possibly daily). Working with a counselor really helped me. Here are some illustrations that are also helpful: We can’t control that a bird flies over our head, but we can keep it from making a nest in our hair. We also can’t control that a leaf floats by us in the river, but we can let it keep floating out of sight, or we can pick it up.
Karen — birds and leaves (intrusive thoughts) will fly/float by. Don’t condemn yourself for that. Take Jesus’ hand. Tell Him what your experiencing. Ask Him to set you free — I believe He will. I don’t believe that that freedom is always instant. It may be a journey. But let that journey draw you closer & closer to Him. Back to the birds & leaves — they will come, but you can let them just keep on going out of sight. They don’t define you. They aren’t who you are. You can choose to dwell on them or just let them go. (I know that’s hard, but it is possible. Don’t let them condemn you — they don’t have that authority).
You are immensely loved by God, Karen. A hug from here.
I struggle with intrusive thoughts daily for that past few months, and the birds and leaves analogy has helped me realize how insignificant the thoughts are, and how they are not holding on to me, but I am just holding onto and looking at a meaningless leaf. And that I can learn to let go.
Thank you so much for sharing, and thank you Lord and I pray that all of us who has been struggling may find peace through Jesus who has brought all these tips and truths to light.
“The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake.”
Psalms 23:1-3
Hi Sarah, i’m struggling with the same thing but mines are kinda different. if i was to read God or Jesus’s name in a verse or even a comment on youtube the intrusive thought will say “ F*** God or Jesus” or if i tell God i love him the intrusive thought will say “ no you don’t “ everytime it happens i say “ i rebuke you in the name of Jesus” but they still come on a daily. i also struggle with lustful intrusive thoughts but i usually just let those pass me because ik that God knows i want to build our relationship to be very strong! i recently decided to come back to Christ and fix my relationship with God but these intrusive thoughts really scare me because i fear that God thinks those thoughts are coming from me and they make me judge myself and wonder if deep down those thoughts are coming from me even tho i LOVE GOD and i love what He’s done for me even though i’ve recently given my life to him .
( i grew up in the church but left at a young age, i still believed in God but was living a life of sin. now i’ve repented and want to fully give myself to GOD ) i also feel like i’m dealing with some type spiritual warfare because i’m only 17 and giving my life to God and i know that upsets the enemy.
I struggle with very similar thoughts. You need to remember that God knows that those thoughts aren’t from you. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered – Matthew 10:30, He knows your heart and everything about you, so don’t be afraid. The thoughts saying the opposite of what you believe like “you don’t really love God”, are such lies and God knows that completely. Ask for The Spirit’s guidance to help you discern truth from lie when dealing with your thoughts. Don’t let lies distract you from who you are in Christ. God bless you!
thank you so much Faye, i’m still struggling unfortunately but i did make the decision to get deliverances so i hope that comes very soon and gives me the freedom i need. God bless you as well❤️
Tiffany,
You are not alone! Im struggling with similar unwanted thoughts—so much so I’m scared to keep thinking because I don’t know what will come next. You are right, this is definitely spiritual warfare—I’ve dealt with this before, have someone pray over you. The last time this happened to me, my mother prayed over me and I put on a YouTube video for spiritual warfare and that helped tremendously. The enemy, is nit concerned with those who are already in a life of sin, but he will always look for ways to tear us down—the enemy fears what God has planned for us, because we are a vessel. Stay strong Tiffany, praying for you!! God Bless you
Thank you both. It’s so relieving to know that other people are experiencing such similar things. I’ve felt practically incapacitated, fearing that any thought at all would be blasphemous. The things I wanted to think the least (the ones I’m worried are unforgivable or would separate me from God) are at the forefront of my mind it seems, and the more I struggled to not think them, the more they permeation my mind.
Like Tiffany, I’ve been living years in sin, and only recently repented and started trying to live for Christ. While I was living in sin, I’d never had any of these thoughts, but once I became involved in the church, helping with recovering addicts, and reading the Bible daily, they started coming harder and harder. I agree, the enemy is angry that people who were formerly doing his will are now doing the Lord’s.
I’ll be praying for all of those in this comment section who are struggling, but reading your comments and the article have been tremendously helpful for me.
May God bless you all.
This is exactly what started happening to me! I gave my heart to Jesus when I was 28 years old and over the course of many years I developed the best and loving relationship with God. Years later, I met a man that I loved so much and started living in sin with him which put a wedge in my relationship with God.. after 8 years the Holy Spirit pricked my heart and opened my eyes. I broke off that relationship and came back to the Lord whole heartedly. The attacks from the devil started almost immediately. He thought he had me but God had other plans for my life, Praise God! I rebuked those thoughts of f**k God, etc because I knew that was NOT from me!! Now the devil is trying a new trick.. as I am studying God’s Word or when I read or hear the phrase “Give all the glory to God”, I feel jealousy or a rebellious spirit. I am struggling so hard with this one which is why I am reading this article to try to help me get beyond this one.
I love God so much and I want nothing more than a deep and loving relationship with him. God deserves all of the Glory so why on earth would these thoughts pop up in my head? Its disturbing and its stealing my peace and joy in the Lord. I refuse to allow the devil to win! My heart and my soul belongs to Jesus! We must draw closer to him and pray and talk with him. With God, all things are possible and I fully trust him to help me overcome this too. What’s next? I don’t know but I do know that I’ll never ever allow anything or anyone to separate me from the love of God again!
Exactlyyyyyyy how I feel
hi Karen, my name is Tiffany and i’m struggling with the same thing. the thoughts say very negative things about God and Jesus, it really upsets and scares me because i would never want God to think i agree with it or that the thoughts are coming from me so i’m stuck. all we can do is Pray, Ask God to forgive us and ignore our intrusive thoughts because we love him and those thoughts aren’t true or even from us. also remember that when the enemy doesn’t want you to go to God it will try and turn us away from God or want God to turn away from us but that will never happen! we have to fight against the thoughts and continue to talk to God.
Jesus loves us. I am tormented with blasphemous thoughts at times but I know he knows our heart! Hang in there look to the Lord. Frank
Wow. I have had intrusive sexual thoughts (People and Jesus.) since I was 11. ???? Now 44. I have had so much guilt and shame over it. I only recently learned that it’s linked to OCD. I pray about it. I wonder if this is my spiritual battle to deal with as long as I’m here. I don’t want to deal with it anymore. I’m tired. 33 years now. It’s gotten worse in the last couple of months.
I feel I have battled with these intrusive thoughts for so long that they have completely taking over my life. I feel numb and insecure and it seems like the light in my eyes has gone. I’m constantly smiling a fake smile and just trying to keep whoever I talk to from peeking into the messed up head that is mine. Even when I pray it seems the worst of the worst pops in my head and I just hope Jesus can forgive me 🙁 These thoughts are not me!!! But they are slowly killing me. Making my life an unending nightmare and now I’m officially so insecure that I can no longer seem to connect to anyone and focus on there physical flaws. Another thing that I never used to do!! I hate this.
Hi ellen, i’m going through something VERY similar so i can’t give much advice but please don’t let the ENEMY WIN! We are weak but we receive our STRENGTH though God because HE is our strength! please don’t give up, you are loved by your brothers and sisters in Christ and OFC GOD! remember there no sin too big that He can’t forgive you for, He loves us and He wants us to always come to him! I’m struggling really bad myslef with the intrusive thoughts and they say stuff like “ f*** God “ and they deeply upset and scare me because i don’t ever want God to think those thoughts are mine or that i don’t love Him because i most definitely do. Please understand that God knows our hearts and he knows where we struggle and where we need help, always pray for a peace of mind, peace, sound mind, positive thoughts and thoughts about Christ! I do all of this and i STILL struggle BUT i put trust in God even tho it’s very hard! but please don’t give up and allow the enemy to win because God is a promising God and he wants the best for us as long as we believe in Him and believe Jesus is Lord because he most definitely is❤️
Hallo Ellen, mijn naam is Sebastian. Ik ben exact door dit proces heen gegaan. Je hebt echt demonische opressie. En het zijn oude bolwerken en je hebt bevrijding nodig. Ik weet niet hoe ik je hier kan contacteren. Contacteer me op mijn mailadres: [email protected] als je hier behoefte aan hebt. Want je hebt recht op een heel fijn en gellukige wandel met de Heilige Geest ????️❤️ Ruach Hakodesh Jezus Adonai Hallelujah King of Kings
Great post! This gives a fresh perspective on handling intrusive thoughts through God’s Word. Thank you!
Oh my days Tiffany I’ve been having the exact same thoughts as you, I’ve only recently understood what it’s means to have a close relationship with God, after living a life of sin for the past 30 years or so (grew up in a loving Christian home, and always believed in christ). It’s been absolutely wonderful and too difficult to put into words the joy, peace and closeness I’ve experienced in the last 2 – 3 months. But I read a passage in the bible about not being blasphemous towards the holy spirit, and immediately heard out of nowhere f the holy spirit, I couldn’t believe it, and focused on the bible, it kept coming back and over the last couple of days it kept occurring, felt like it was losing the holy spirits presence, but after reading the support here, I prayed and felt god draw near and holding my hand. God loves you like nothing else, and it’s what in your heart that matters. The brain has a way of playing tricks on you!
[…] How to Deal with Intrusive Thoughts {for Christians} […]
So ever since my faith has been tested I have had these blasphemous thoughts. Aka really bad ones. And for a while it caused me to backslide from God, every time I try build my relationship with him I get this feeling of anxiety or I get agitated and It’s just an uncomfortable feeling I get. I struggle to focus on him, it causes me to doubt stupid things like ”Whys wisdom important?” Or ”why do I need a relationship with him?” Its so stupid. I wanna know Jesus but I also think ”Ugh you just fell in love with the feeling. not him, you don’t know what he looks like. I mean, what if I don’t like the way he looks? NONONO! I shouldn’t care.. I’m so sorry Jesus.” yeah. Every day images or thoughts pop up, I’m dying because I fear I will one day lose my salvation. I have no desire to do evil, yet I keep backsliding going into my old habits. I haven’t even built a relationship with him when I got saved, I’ve never been in a trial so I don’t know how to start one WITH these thoughts. I trial the bird method, it works I guess. But I still don’t feel like he loves me or wants me, I feel condemned. I’m scared I won’t know him, since I still have time I try make it work but Idk if im chasing his heart or heaven, or out of fear. I try pray, read and study as much as I can but it scares me, I don’t know what to do. I loved him and now I’m struggling to love him for who he is. I can’t use his death, I feel numb. I’m 13 years old, please help me I feel hopeless.
Hi luna,I hope this gets to you,I want to let you know that God loves you.I am also battling with intrusive thoughts and I know how overwhelming it can be.But we are not alone,our God is with us.I pray every one of us here will experience God’s wonderful love.He cares,he won’t leave us alone.Amen.Glory be to him in Christ Jesus.Amen
Hi Dear Luna,
I just want to say you’re so strong for being 13 and going through this. I also experience intrusive unwanted thoughts. Know that JESUS LOVES YOU SO VERY MUCH and nothing will ever change that, for Romans 8:39 (NLT) say’s, “No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
John 3:16 NLT is the way of our salvation:
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
Hi Luna, I know that i can’t know exactly how you feel but just know that God does. I am 13 years old also and also trying to build my relationship with God and have been struggling with similar thoughts so i know its not easy. Remember everything we feel is not always how things are because the human heart is decietful and can be affected by evil but God’s word cannot be affected because He is pure so instead try and focus on His words which is the Bible. He has told us that he will not leave us nor forsake us but help us at the break of day and save us so trust that. The Bible are God’s promises and He will never lie to us so believe. I know it is easier said than done and I myself struggle and fear that God will leave me alone but we have to remember that these anxieties aren’t your truth Jesus is. These thoughts want to keep you scared and hopeless because they know the truth is that God cares and has wonderful things stored for you. I pray that God will keep you safe in his truth and shine his light that can overcome all your fears. Dont give up Luna i really care and acknowledge your struggles but God cares more than anyone could. You can ask me anything and ill try to answer God bless you❤️
Hi, I’ve been dealing with blasphemous and lustful intrusive thoughts basically 24/7 for the past couple weeks. It’s gotten really bad recently. I’m petrified that I committed the unforgivable sin by the things I say. These thoughts have also been telling me that there is no after life and these thoughts have been scaring me. I’ve developed a fear of death also. I feel this weight on me like I’m guilty of the things I say.
I’ve also been dealing with them for weeks. Allow yourself to let them pass. Don’t accept them or agree with them, just let them pass
I’ve been having intrusive thoughts and it’s really tough. Bad blasphamous thouts just cross my mind.. This article has really helped me and all I do is pray day and night and read the bible often.. God knows our hearts and it’ll be over.. nothing is too big for him he’ll free us never stop praying and worshipping him.
I’ve really been struggling with really bad blasphemous and sexual intrusive thoughts that I can’t even get myself to write, it’s bringing in so much fear that what if this keeps going on and on and will God keep forgiving me? They’ve taken a hold of my mind that when I wake up they are first things that come to mind and I just hate myself for it, to the point that i thought it would be better if I didn’t even wake up (d*e) cause I don’t wanna keep disappointing God with these thoughts ????
Terreur van het boze, je hebt bevrijding nodig. Ik heb met hetzelfde geworsteld. Sterker nog, recent is het nog zelf opgekomen in me. Vasten 72 uur en bidden en het woord induiken heeft mijn geholpen. Vergeving van andere bij het kruis brengen. Vergeving van jezelf ook vooral. En weet, je oude natuur is het (je vlees) die vooral niet begrijpt waarom je eigenlijk in de geest hoort te wandelen.
Mijn ziel keer terug tot Uw rust want de Heer is goed voor U geweest Psalm 116:7
*Proclameer dat ook vaak op een dag, hardop uit geloof*
Hier mijn mail adres: [email protected]
Mocht je hier behoefte aan hebben dan kan ik je wel advies en tips doormailen.
Jezus met ons Hallelujah
I found this after having a really frightening experience with a blasphemous instructive thought. It really helped to calm me down and remind me that Jesus is Lord, the ultimate redeemer who has truly forgiven us of all of our sins – God knows your heart. The devil uses intrusive thoughts to try and distract you and encourage you to backslide. The accuser sees how close you are to your breakthrough and uses intrusive thoughts to try and remove you from the path of blessings that is meant for you.
I pray for healing for everyone who is on this page and is battling with intrusive thoughts. Those thoughts are not your own, and they are not a reflection of who you are and the love you have for God. May God bless you all ❤️
This place is great for help. I have issues, too. Weeks of thoughts that would not quit. Had to pray to trust in Jesus. Faith is a gift from God. Pray for some and keep praying. Do not give up. On top of keep praying and seeking God, try to memorize Bible versus. When one does not “work,” find others. John Piper is a great Bible teacher who teaches with compassion. He has a YouTube channel Desiring God which helped me a lot. I broke down crying with many of the things spoken. Find a quiet place and listen. Things will get better. We need to keep our eyes on Jesus. Hope in Jesus. Hope in God. Hope in His Word. We parish from ignorance. Many of my thoughts were lies I believed until someone explained to me what things really mean. That is where getting a good Bible teacher is great. There is a point, today, where God was in control. It is not a perfect place, but it was far better than before.
Do you ever feel like your friends dont understand why you keep going through troubles? For me (I am a Christian) Its been recently that ive become irritated with my Christian friends. I dont mean to get irritated but thoughts come into my head like saying they dont understand you, dont care, or like you, or thoughts about my friend that say they know everything and for them to get off their high horse and why they are treating me like I dont know anything and thoughts like everything that my friends say are is to fix me and they dont listen to me. As well as thoughts like why are the rest of my friends seeking the attention of my one friend and I am just standing here it is a competition for their attention. This being said, ive had strong desires to remove myself from being a part of the body and isolate myself from my friends and everyone to the point where my mind is convinced that I dont need any friend or person and thoughts saying they dont care come into my head. I dont understand why thoughts like these are coming, I dont know if there is something wrong with me but I dont know what the underlying root is.
I just wanted to share that I also been struggling with this for a long time. Since October of 2020. While the world was being hit with Covid , I believe the enemy was attacking others with intrusive blasphemous thoughts. I just want to tell you that Jesus hears Us. I can remember when it started, it was very very bad. But I knew only Jesus was and is my hope . There is times that you feel like not praying, singing worship songs or anything that is from God . Not even reading the word of God but I have to put it in my heart to say no to the thought or feelings. I surrender to Jesus. He is my Lord. When my flesh and mind doesn’t want to summit, I start praying. It could be a 5 minute prayer or whatever you can but surrender all to Jesus. Yes be 100% honest to Jesus. I tell him that I don’t have the strength to pray or that I can’t even praise him. I ask him to forgive me and to help me throughout the day and He does help me. He has been my strength every second. If you feel like crying because you feel anxious, scared, afraid, desperate, annoyed or any other negative feelings cry out to Jesus. Let him know everything that you are feeling. It doesn’t matter if your in the car, doing shores or any of our daily activities. Run to Jesus. Even when you are praying or about to begin pray those thoughts will come but you let God know. He knows they are coming but tell Him the lies that are forming in your mind. That’s what they are LIES. We have to rebuke all lies. Only the truth of God prevails. Everything else is under his feet they have no truth. I only want the Truth from Jesus. This trial has made me realize that I need to forgive others and ask for forgiveness, we need to examine ourselves. I thank God for his mercy and grace to allow me to see how I need to align my life in his ways.
A sister in Christ told me to hold my head and to say “my mind belongs to Jesus , my brain belongs to Him, is meant to think like Jesus. He created me for his purpose, my heart belongs to my God, my whole body, mind , soul everything that is me belongs to My Creator . He made Us. Remind yourselves that we belong to God. Every second of our lives is his. He is in control. Nothing surprises God. He knows what we are facing but we need to learn to trust him, have faith in him ,learn to be patient. Daily we need to learn to surrender all to him. I hate what is happening to me but this has open my heart to recognize my position with my God. Is not easy. For the last 2 yrs and 10 months , I have been in this dessert, but my strength has been Jesus. I have seen his mercy and grace. Thank him for EVERYTHING. Learn to be grateful. I couldn’t even drink water without having a awful thought, I couldn’t even do my normal human life things , like brushing my teeth or take a shower or watch news, or hear or read something. Anything would trigger a thought . Thats why is important for us to put boundaries at what we hear, and see . Am learning to put boundaries. Pray that God will give you the strength to do Everything that you can for that day. A day at a time. Yesterday is gone ,today God has grant us mercies , grace and above all Love, and tomorrow belongs to God . God willing he will give us another day. Put worship songs . Listen to Christian music. Read what you can from the word of God , hold tight to scriptures that bring hope. I still have difficulty reading the word of God but I read what I can. God knows, we are not perfect but the important thing is to open up our hearts and to put effort into listening to God speaking to us. Don’t hide from your family or friends . Thats exactly what the enemy wants. He wants us to be alone so he can continue to manipulate and continue the lies. Pray to God so He can to put loving Christian believers that will help you pray for you and not gossip or judge you. For God to put people that will help you walk through this season in your life in a loving compassionate and merciful way. . Not everyone is understanding or mature enough in the faith to understand. Believe me I know…but I began to pray to my Lord and God puts the right person to speak life to you when you needed the most. He has surprised me I know that he hears our prayers and our cries to him . God knows exactly where our brothers and sisters are so they can help us. GOD uses his children so we can help each other. Remind your self, For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.
2 Timothy 1:7 NLT,
For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.
Jeremiah 29:11 ESV
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
Joshua 1:9 ESV
DO NOT GIVE UP!!! EVEN IN THE WORST DAYS YOU KEEP CRYING OUT TO JESUS. HE HAS NEVER LEFT US. When this started I thought I was the only person in the world but as I started to research about why this was happening to me I was amazed that I was not the only one. This has open up my heart to pray for everyone that is going through this or anything similar. You have to become your own counselor or therapist at times. We all can afford to go to one of them but God has put resources and tools so we can hear and listen and find hope in Jesus.
I hope ya can listen to this podcast, it has help me alot. https://open.spotify.com/show/3t3TDvjeCIgop43pIDHZMl?si=96tls76MRe-uI_chZdyWKQ
Therapy and Theology by Lisa TerKeurast
https://open.spotify.com/episode/0OUddvDjZ9jUMcp5lCClHb?si=B1VX7lt4TMWmYYzplJ62qw
Debra Fileta
Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.
Philippians 4:6-8 NLT
The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need. He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams. He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name. Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me. You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You honor me by anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings. Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the Lord forever.
Psalms 23:1-6 NLT
The Lord hears his people when they call to him for help. He rescues them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed.
Psalms 34:17-18
And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.
Romans 8:28
Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying.
Romans 12:12 NLT
I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”
John 16:33 NLT
The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure.
1 Corinthians 10:13 NLT
Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me.
2 Corinthians 12:9 NLT
I just wanted to share that I also been struggling with this for a long time. Since October of 2020. While the world was being hit with Covid , I believe the enemy was attacking others with intrusive blasphemous thoughts. I just want to tell you that Jesus hears Us. I can remember when it started, it was very very bad. But I knew only Jesus was and is my hope . There is times that you feel like not praying, singing worship songs or anything that is from God . Not even reading the word of God but I have to put it in my heart to say no to the thought or feelings. I surrender to Jesus. He is my Lord. When my flesh and mind doesn’t want to summit, I start praying. It could be a 5 minute prayer or whatever you can but surrender all to Jesus. Yes be 100% honest to Jesus. I tell him that I don’t have the strength to pray or that I can’t even praise him. I ask him to forgive me and to help me throughout the day and He does help me. He has been my strength every second. If you feel like crying because you feel anxious, scared, afraid, desperate, annoyed or any other negative feelings cry out to Jesus. Let him know everything that you are feeling. It doesn’t matter if your in the car, doing shores or any of our daily activities. Run to Jesus. Even when you are praying or about to begin pray those thoughts will come but you let God know. He knows they are coming but tell Him the lies that are forming in your mind. That’s what they are LIES. We have to rebuke all lies. Only the truth of God prevails. Everything else is under his feet they have no truth. I only want the Truth from Jesus. This trial has made me realize that I need to forgive others and ask for forgiveness, we need to examine ourselves. I thank God for his mercy and grace to allow me to see how I need to align my life in his ways.
A sister in Christ told me to hold my head and to say “my mind belongs to Jesus , my brain belongs to Him, and it was made to think like Jesus. He created me for his purpose, my heart belongs to my God, my whole body, mind , soul everything that is ME belongs to My Creator . He made Us. Remind yourselves that we belong to God. PRAY FOR A CLEAR UNDERSTANDING, CLEAR CONSCIENCE, GOOD THOUGHTS . PRAY FOR JESUS TO TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR THOUGHTS. Every second of our lives is HIS. He is in control. Nothing surprises God. He knows what we are facing but we need to learn to trust him, have faith in him ,learn to be patient. Daily we need to learn to surrender all to him. I hate what is happening to me but this has open my heart to recognize my position with my God. Is not easy. For the last 2 yrs and 10 months , I have been in this dessert, but my strength has been Jesus. I have seen his mercy and grace. Thank him for EVERYTHING. Learn to be grateful. I couldn’t even drink water without having a awful thought, I couldn’t even do my normal human life things , like brushing my teeth or take a shower or watch news, or hear or read something. Anything would trigger a thought . Thats why is important for us to put boundaries at what we hear, and see . Am learning to put boundaries. Pray that God will give you the strength to do Everything that you can for that day. A day at a time. Yesterday is gone ,today God has grant us mercies , grace and above all Love, and tomorrow belongs to God . God willing he will give us another day. Put worship songs . Listen to Christian music. Read what you can from the word of God , hold tight to scriptures that bring hope. I still have difficulty reading the word of God but I read what I can. God knows, we are not perfect but the important thing is to open up our hearts and to put effort into listening to God speaking to us. Don’t hide from your family or friends . Thats exactly what the enemy wants. He wants us to be alone so he can continue to manipulate and continue the lies. Pray to God so He can to put loving Christian believers that will help you pray for you and not gossip or judge you. For God to put people that will help you walk through this season in your life in a loving compassionate and merciful way. . Not everyone is understanding or mature enough in the faith to understand. Believe me I know…but I began to pray to my Lord and God puts the right person to speak life to you when you needed the most. He has surprised me I know that he hears our prayers and our cries to him . God knows exactly where our brothers and sisters are so they can help us. GOD uses his children so we can help each other. Remind your self, For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.
2 Timothy 1:7 NLT,
For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.
Jeremiah 29:11 ESV
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
Joshua 1:9 ESV
DO NOT GIVE UP!!! EVEN IN THE WORST DAYS YOU KEEP CRYING OUT TO JESUS. HE HAS NEVER LEFT US. When this started I thought I was the only person in the world but as I started to research about why this was happening to me I was amazed that I was not the only one. This has open up my heart to pray for everyone that is going through this or anything similar. You have to become your own counselor or therapist at times. Enjoy life, laugh, stop and smell the roses . Take steps to exercise and eat healthy. We all can’t afford to go to therapy or counseling but God has put resources and tools so we can hear and listen and find hope in Jesus.
I hope ya can listen to this podcast, it has help me alot. https://open.spotify.com/show/3t3TDvjeCIgop43pIDHZMl?si=96tls76MRe-uI_chZdyWKQ
Therapy and Theology by Lisa TerKeurast
https://open.spotify.com/episode/0OUddvDjZ9jUMcp5lCClHb?si=B1VX7lt4TMWmYYzplJ62qw
Debra Fileta
Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.
Philippians 4:6-8 NLT
The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need. He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams. He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name. Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me. You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You honor me by anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings. Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the Lord forever.
Psalms 23:1-6 NLT
The Lord hears his people when they call to him for help. He rescues them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed.
Psalms 34:17-18
And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.
Romans 8:28
Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying.
Romans 12:12 NLT
I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”
John 16:33 NLT
The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure.
1 Corinthians 10:13 NLT
Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me.
2 Corinthians 12:9 NLT
DON’T STOP PRAYING, DON’T STOP BELIEVEING, DON’T STOP LOOKING FOR JESUS. JESUS LOVES US . IF YOU STUMBLE OR FALL DONT STAY THERE. GET RIGHT BACK. . THATS WHY GOD HAS GIVEN US TWO HANDS TO GET BACK UP ; MY DAD USE TO SAY “WHILE THERE IS STILL LIFE THERE IS HOPE IN JESUS..” IM PRAYING FOR EVERYONE. I MIGHT NOT KNOW YOU BUT YA ARE IN MY HEART AND PRAYERS . MAY THE PEACE OF GOD BE WITH US ALL. BLESSINGS.
I’m sharing some links I hope ya can listen to this podcast, it has help me alot. https://open.spotify.com/show/3t3TDvjeCIgop43pIDHZMl?si=96tls76MRe-uI_chZdyWKQ
Therapy and Theology by Lisa TerKeurast
https://open.spotify.com/episode/0OUddvDjZ9jUMcp5lCClHb?si=B1VX7lt4TMWmYYzplJ62qw
Debra Fileta
I live in the Houston TX area, we have a Christian radio station is called 89.3 KSBJ God Listens . You can download there app. You can request prayer. Is a blessing. Is the only radio station I listen .
Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.
Philippians 4:6-8 NLT
The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need. He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams. He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name. Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me. You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You honor me by anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings. Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the Lord forever.
Psalms 23:1-6 NLT
The Lord hears his people when they call to him for help. He rescues them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed.
Psalms 34:17-18
And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.
Romans 8:28
Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying.
Romans 12:12 NLT
I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”
John 16:33 NLT
The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure.
1 Corinthians 10:13 NLT
Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me.
2 Corinthians 12:9 NLT
DON’T STOP PRAYING, DON’T STOP BELIEVEING, DON’T STOP LOOKING FOR JESUS. JESUS LOVES US . IF YOU STUMBLE OR FALL DONT STAY THERE. GET RIGHT BACK. . THATS WHY GOD HAS GIVEN US TWO HANDS TO GET BACK UP ; MY DAD USE TO SAY “WHILE THERE IS STILL LIFE THERE IS HOPE IN JESUS..” IM PRAYING FOR EVERYONE. I MIGHT NOT KNOW YOU BUT YA ARE IN MY HEART AND PRAYERS . MAY THE PEACE OF GOD BE WITH US ALL. BLESSINGS.
I also used to have such blasphemous thoughts the worst one’s ever it was like a music continously playing in my mind i thought i was the only one in the world with such kind of thoughts i thank God for directing me to this website i feel much alive having to have the encouragement that there are people in similar situations who despite the challenges are standing firm in God’s word and i pray that we all come out victorious i have picked out loads of grace filled words and i strongly believe that my relationship with God will be fully restored
Hi I’m Valerie and I’m having bad intrusive thoughts ever since October 2, 2023 it’s about like killing people at first I was panicking I was like no because when I first thought about it I was awake watching a movie at night and then it popped up in my mind I started to have a panic attack and I started to pray it calmed me down but by the days went by it got worse I felt like the worst I didn’t even wanna think about that that I would sleep all the time to not think about it and then I realized I wasn’t happy no more, I felt like I was gonna live with these thoughts then I found a girl online that had the same thoughts as me and it calmed me down knowing I wasn’t alone before those thoughts happened I would always pray at night, after those thoughts started happening I stopped watching crime shows,horror movies because I loved watching them it was interesting but me doing a crime is a no, it’s November 18 2023 and I’ve gotten better I learned to control it but it pops up sometimes and it stays then leaves but when I’m talking to my love ones I forget about the thoughts, does anyone have any advice? Honestly don’t wanna live in worry and fear no more!! I also bought a bible cause of it and a Jesus plushie any advice would be helpful, other then that I would look how to stop these thoughts and looking it up made me fear and cause a other panic attack because it would say look into to it even tho I did not because I hated it so much and I still hate those thoughts I wish to be free and feel happy again.
I’m going thru Intrusive thoughts too. Mine are blasphemous against The Lord. It sucks because it happens while I’m praying/talking to Him. So it’s like I’m being rude to His face. It’s so disrespectful and makes me mad. I do remember that God knows these are not from my heart. He knows I fight them. One thing I do when I get one is to say STOP as soon as it comes. I also call on His name too. I love Him and can’t bear it. But I know He understands.