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Obsessive-Compulsive DisorderObsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) involves obsessions and/or compulsions. "Obsessions are persistent ideas, thoughts, impulses, or images that are experienced as intrusive and inappropriate and that cause marked anxiety and distress."1 Compulsions are repetitive behaviors which the individual engages in, the goal of which is to prevent or reduce anxiety or distress.1 "When attempting to resist a compulsion, the person may have a sense of mounting anxiety or tension that is often relieved by yielding to the compulsion."1 Some examples of obsessions:
Some examples of compulsions:
In order to benefit from this article, it is necessary to first get saved. It is also recommended that you read the following before continuing: The occurrence and severity of OCD is correlated with stress and anxiety. Anything you can do to reduce these will help. Secular treatment for OCD includes Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, psychotropic medication and, in extreme cases, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and even psychosurgery.2 I'm no fan of psychotropic drugs or the use of any other extreme measure. These are used because secular therapy, by itself, doesn't usually work. OCD sufferers are usually unable to make much progress using only secular therapy. Even though they realize what they're doing is irrational. That's because spiritual warfare is involved. That's where the Bible comes in. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder is, for the most part, the result of demonic activity. More specifically, there is a spiritual stronghold based on fear. Here's a definition of a spiritual stronghold that seems particularly appropriate for OCD: "A stronghold is a belief or habitual pattern of thinking that is not consistent with what God tells us is true. It usually results in behaviors that are out of character for a child of God."3 So, how do we break free? Jesus said: "If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." {John 8:31-32 NKJV} Behind every wrong behavior, there's a lie. That's why the truth sets us free. When the truth is mixed with faith and obedience. You are fighting with demons. Some suggestions follow. First: "Is anyone among you suffering? Then he must pray." {James 5:13 NASB} Pray when you come under spiritual attacks:
Second: Where is this thought coming from? If you recognize that a thought is coming from a demon, try using this simple affirmation: "I'm not receiving that." Then, think about something else. Third: Recite Scripture when you come under spiritual attacks. Examples:
Reciting Scripture, in and of itself, has supernatural power: "For the word of God is living and active . . ." {Hebrews 4:12 NASB} It will be more effective, however, if you combine this with faith and obedience. Believe Scripture and do what it says. Reciting Scripture out loud is more effective. Fourth: Make declarations based on Scripture. Examples:
These things are true—but you do have to believe them, and use them, to counter the spiritual warfare you are experiencing. Fifth: Address demons directly when you come under spiritual attacks. Two things to do:
Declaring truth:
Often, this is all that is needed. Casting out demons: "Lord, even the demons are subject to us in Your name." {Luke 10:17 NKJV}. Forcefully rebuke the devil, out loud, in the name of Jesus. And command him to leave. Five to ten sentences long. The word "Satan" works just fine; you don't have to also say demons. This must be audible so that the demon(s) can hear. Recognize that fear, including fear of demons, will sabotage your efforts. Do not try any of this unless you are saved; that is potentially dangerous (Acts 19:13-17). Sixth: Cast your burden on the Lord. "Cast your burden upon the Lord and He will sustain you; “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths (Proverbs 3:5-8 NKJV).” "For from days of old they have not heard or perceived by ear, This is simple, though not necessarily easy:
Seventh: You do have, as a Christian, the ability to succeed. "No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it." {1 Corinthians 10:13 NASB} Eighth: Monitor your self-talk. Your words have power. Your self-talk needs to be rational and comforting. Self-talk is always a choice. Correct negative thoughts. And, when you recognize that a thought is coming from a demon, you can also try this simple affirmation: "I'm not receiving that." Then think about something else. Ninth: You have a responsibility to walk wisely. "He who trusts in his own heart is a fool, But he who walks wisely will be delivered" {Proverbs 28:26 NASB} "Also it is not good for a soul to be without knowledge, And he sins who hastens with his feet." {Proverbs 19:2 NKJV} Practice walking wisely. And, again, practice not doing what the devil wants you to do. Tenth: Another thing to try: If you're used to giving in to compulsions, try waiting for one hour. The demonic pressure may subside. Eleventh: Use fasting. This will enable you to make progress faster. A partial-day fast, once a week, is highly recommended. Read the article entitled Prayer and Fasting. Another link is below. Twelfth: One qualifier: For very minor issues, a simple affirmation may be sufficient. Example: "The door is locked." Say it out loud once or twice. This may be all that you need. Thirteenth: It is especially recommended that you review the series entitled Stopping Spiritual Attacks, if you haven't already. Be sure to read the entire series. Finally: The following are also recommended: 1 Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM 4 TR), Pages 457-458. 2 http://www.webmd.com/anxiety-panic/guide/obsessive-compulsive-disorder?page=2 3: Neil Anderson. |
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