Please remember that we cannot control the thoughts that come a-knocking. We have all had thoughts that surprised us and maybe distressed us. What’s important is to know that we can control the thoughts that we entertain – the ones to which we say, “Come on in! Have a seat! Stay a while.”

As you work to support survivors, practice managing your own thoughts. Notice when they are running away with you and when you feel that you cannot control your mind. It’s scary, isn’t it? Especially when you’re thinking thoughts that you don’t want. You may even have negative thoughts about the people you’re trying to help.

Ugly problems exist in our world and we have to think about them in order to address them. But we don’t want them to control us. Surround them with prayer, ask God how to handle them, and don’t let them settle in your  mind.

Decide to keep the door closed when intrusive thoughts come to you. Make up your mind in advance that, with God’s help, you will not be controlled by them. And when negative, painful, or ugly thoughts come to you, be ready with positive, Scripture-based concepts. Make a list of your push-back thoughts so you’ll have it ready when you need it.

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