OCD Is A Struggle for Control and Valuing Certainty
There is the Power of Faith
Have you ever felt like you need to do things repeatedly, like checking if the door is locked or making sure everything is just right? Psychology labels this as Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). It defines OCD as when someone feels like they have to do specific actions repeatedly because their mind is stuck on a thought or fear. I don’t like labels because they seem to lack control over them. Yes, there is a struggle for control, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t control.
Even though OCD can make people feel like they have to control every part of their lives, it’s believing a lie that has just a tiny bit of truth within it—any truth attached to a lie is really a big fat lie. So why do some people continue to believe the lie?
When the Struggle for Control Becomes an Intense Need
When one experiences an out-of-control event or events in life, the mind experiences discomfort. This uncomfortable feeling can create three responses.
- It pushes us to reflect upon our behaviors and thoughts with emotional regulation in mind, within a trusting support network, to strengthen our self-identity and abilities.
- Avoid conflict and submit to a learned helplessness state of mind, creating a victim response.
- To focus on the strong need for control to protect one’s environment and thoughts through repetitive behavior and thoughts.
We often crave control, believing the lie that we can decide what is good and evil for ourselves, just like in Genesis 3:16. We think that if we are in control, life will be better. But true peace has always been in God’s hands, not ours. We get tricked into thinking we can find happiness on our own, apart from God, because we struggle with people and circumstances.
When we try to control everything, it can become an idol that takes the place of God’s power and love. The idol of control is strong and can sneak into our lives without noticing. From a biblical point of view, the idol of control happens when we want to be in charge of everything, instead of trusting God’s plan for us.
What is an Idol?
OCD is idolizing control. An idol is anything that takes the place of God in our hearts. When we try to control everything around us, we say that we trust our actions more than God’s plan. Instead of letting God be in control, we try to make everything perfect on our own, which can lead to anxiety and fear.
God wants us to trust Him with everything, not just the big but also the little things. The Bible tells us, “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7). We don’t have to carry all our worries and fears by ourselves. We can give them to God and trust that He will care for them.
How Christian Counseling Can Help
If you struggle with OCD, it’s essential to know that you don’t have to fight it alone. Seeking help from a Christian counselor can be a big step in finding peace. A Christian counselor can help you understand that you don’t have to control everything. They can show you how to rely on God’s strength and trust in His plan for your life.
A Christian counselor will focus on your symptoms and help you grow closer to God. They can help you replace the idol of control with a heart that seeks God first. When we let go of the need to control and trust God, He gives us the peace that only He can provide.
You Are Not Alone
If you are struggling with OCD or any other challenge, remember that God is always with you. It’s okay to ask for help. God has trained us counselors to help us understand our struggles in a way that honors Him. Don’t be afraid to contact a Christian counselor who can guide you toward healing.
Remember, you don’t have to face this alone. With God’s help and the support of a Christian counselor, you can find freedom from the need for control and experience the peace that God promises to those who trust in Him.
OCD is a serious struggle, but it doesn’t have to control your life. Trusting in God and seeking help from a Christian counselor can bring you the peace and healing you need. Let go of the need for control and let God lead your life.
If you or someone you know is struggling with control, consider reaching out to a Christian counselor. They can help you walk through your fears and guide you to a place of peace and trust in God.
Pray and trust in God, and let Him bring you peace.
Are You Ready Counseling offers Biblical support from an experienced licensed counselor recognized by most insurance companies. It also provides affordable self-pay rates. Experience the difference when you let God counsel you through life’s most challenging moments. Contact Jane Perkins, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who integrates Biblical Faith and Counseling to address your mental health needs.
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