Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), is a painful experience for those who have it and for their family members. Jesus says, "Come to me all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." - Matthew 11:28. Does the Bible really offer help for a condition like this? Yes, it does.
First, what is it? "Obsessions" are persistent ideas or thoughts that cause anxiety or distress. "Compulsions" are repetitive behaviors or mental acts that are done to get relief from the anxiety caused by an obsession (DSM IV). The reality is just about all of us have some thoughts that cause anxiety and we have compulsions as well. The key difference between someone with OCD and someone without it is how "persistent" these are. Someone with OCD has an obsessive compulsive pattern that causes great difficulty in a person's life. The person may have an obsession of having germs on their hands. The compulsion is to wash their hands. They do this over and over until their hands are literally bleeding. Sometimes the compulsion may have no rational connection with the obsession. One man would do anything to avoid driving on odd numbered streets.
So, how can the Bible help with something like this? First, the Bible describes it. Second, the Bible gives us the right framework to understand it and address it. Third, the Bible puts the condition in a hopeful perspective:
1. True, the Bible doesn't use the term "OCD," but behaviors that fit this pattern are not new. The Bible addresses anxiety and distress almost continuously. "Do not fear," is the most frequently repeated command in the Bible. The Bible also describes people who turned to harmful compulsions in order to deal with their anxiety causing obsessions. For example, King Saul was obsessed with the idea that David was going to take his place on the throne by some violent or illegitimate means. 1 Samuel demonstrates repeatedly that this obsession was irrational. Yet Saul went back to his compulsion again and again- seeking to kill David. Saul may or may not be classified as OCD by a psychologist today, but his behavior certainly fits the pattern. Paul (when he was persecuting the church) and Balak (wanting to curse Israel) are two other possible examples. The point is that the Bible takes seriously and wrestles with every type of problem that afflicts mankind.
2. The Bible also addresses the root problem. Sin separates us from a proper devotion to God and understanding of who he is. A biblical strategy for reducing obsessions would include identifying those heart issues and thinking issues that contribute to obsessions. For instance, various kinds of fears may be the underlying root cause of obsessions. The Bible teaches us how to identify sinful areas, repent, and find healing restoration. See trustthebible.blogspot.com/2017/02/do-not-fear.html for a biblical guide to overcoming fears. Whether we are classified as OCD or not, the Bible directs us to keep working on growing to love God, trust him, and follow his word more and more.
3. The Bible does not leave us without hope. The Bible tells us that one day sin will be defeated. All afflictions are the result of living in a fallen, sinful world. OCD in some cases may cause one person a greater level of difficulty than another because of biological factors like genetics. Regardless of the causes of OCD, the Bible can help us find hopeful answers to why we go through all kinds of challenges. The Bible also promises help from the Holy Spirit to grow in ways that can bring relief to some of the struggles OCD brings. The Bible also promises a time when sin will be completely defeated. We can move toward healing now and know that one day we will obtain it completely.
2. The Bible also addresses the root problem. Sin separates us from a proper devotion to God and understanding of who he is. A biblical strategy for reducing obsessions would include identifying those heart issues and thinking issues that contribute to obsessions. For instance, various kinds of fears may be the underlying root cause of obsessions. The Bible teaches us how to identify sinful areas, repent, and find healing restoration. See trustthebible.blogspot.com/2017/02/do-not-fear.html for a biblical guide to overcoming fears. Whether we are classified as OCD or not, the Bible directs us to keep working on growing to love God, trust him, and follow his word more and more.
3. The Bible does not leave us without hope. The Bible tells us that one day sin will be defeated. All afflictions are the result of living in a fallen, sinful world. OCD in some cases may cause one person a greater level of difficulty than another because of biological factors like genetics. Regardless of the causes of OCD, the Bible can help us find hopeful answers to why we go through all kinds of challenges. The Bible also promises help from the Holy Spirit to grow in ways that can bring relief to some of the struggles OCD brings. The Bible also promises a time when sin will be completely defeated. We can move toward healing now and know that one day we will obtain it completely.
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