3:66 – The Bad Thoughts

#faithbites #faithjourney #nostigma bad

Do you ever have bad thoughts? Thoughts you know are wrong and are sickened but them? Thoughts about actions you might take but fight against because they are that bad?

I do everyday. I won’t share them here because people will take it out of context. But if you were honest with yourself, have you every had one of these thoughts? You probably have.

Scripture

• If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. – 1 John 1:9
• But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart. – Matthew 5:28
• Submit therefore to God Resist the devil and he will flee from you. – James 4:7

Reflection

Old Testament sin were sins that you could see: murder, adultery, theft, among others. Jesus upped this in the New Testament by saying that even thinking about committing a sin, was a sin.

Here’s the thing, these thoughts are from the Devil. These are temptations. We can be forgiven for these sins. The hardest part about these sins, is others don’t see them. No one will call you out or support you through these. No one knows the bad thoughts you are having.

With this we have two actions. One is to confess to Jesus and be forgiven. The other is to be kind to those we meet as we never know the internal battles they are fighting.

Before we close, while we all have some bad thoughts, there Fe those that bckme dangerous. Through God, you may need professional help. I have meds and counseling to help. There is no shame in that. I am thankful to God for giving me the support I need.

Now, you know about these thoughts. To quote G.I. Joe, knowing is half the battle. Make the choice to stand against these thoughts with Jesus.

Challenge

Are you having bad thoughts? Pray on it. If they are too frequent and too strong, Seek out help. There is no shame in asking for Spiritual and mental help. Call a friend, call your spiritual leader, call the health department.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, we are always being tempted by sin. From our actions to our thoughts, sin is always there. Please help keep us away from temptation. Give us your strength to seek out the help we need. We love you and know we can do all things through you. In your name, Amen.