Spreading the Gospel while having OCD

[HopingForJesus]

I really am not sure how best to put this. I know as a Christian it is my job to live out my life worshipping the Lord and to bear fruit. I am still facing many OCD struggles and now my concern is how can I go about witnessing if that is what I am called to do. I am not ashamed of Christ, but I know that my head is playing games with me. What I mean is I am afraid of alienating myself further if I offend anyone. I wonder what the best way to spread the Gospel would be while dealing with this illness.
I still live a somewhat isolated life except for when I go to church now. At least I finally found a place where I feel God's presence. I am still afraid of going to hell. When I speak of Christ I want to do it for all the right reasons and not just because of my ocd and the fear of eternal punishment for bad thoughts. I hope I made some sense. This is really weighing heavy on my heart. Peace and blessings to all of you.

 

[LadyL]

*hugs* I know exactly how you feel. Some in this forum previously mentioned John Bunyon I believe and he supposedly had OCD. My thought was that since we know God knows all and He drew me to Himself, then HE knows the thoughts I will have and have had. He also must know that I will come outta this whole thing ok. So that helps me sometimes when I doubt my salvation.

As far as witnessing? Well I think about how without it, others are going to hell. I don't want that, so I just keep that in mind. Witnessing is about others and not about myself- and I know how hard it is to press forward when you are having so many strange thoughts going on.

Maybe we should pray and ask for prayer as Paul did, so that we can have boldness to spread the Gospel. And wisdom.

Hope this helps.

 

[HopingForJesus]

Thank you Lady L for answering my post. To pray as Paul did to have the means by which to spread the gospel to have courage is a great idea. I don't mean to be self absorbed but my stupid OCD tends to do that sometimes. Thank you for the encouragement and God bless.

 

[LadyL]

No problem, sister *hugs* I go through it and understand. Glad you were encouraged.
BTW, thanks for the blessings.

 

[Mayflower1]

feelings and thoughts may try to lie to us, but the Word of God will never lie to us. And the Great Commission tells us to evangelize the spiritually lost, grow in Christ-like character, and build up believers spiritually... yes, when you witness, there are going to be disgruntled people, because they don't like to hear about Jesus. all we can do though, is give the message and ask God for boldness to keep witnessing no matter the cost.

 

[frank1234]

I try to share about Christ and not hide who I am. That's why I try not to be afraid of telling people about my struggles(to the point that they would understand). I think that makes it real to people that there are christians, who even though are struggling with all kinds of different issues, still can maintain their faith to The Lord. It is actually a good sign of the power of God working in your life. Some people might not receive you(because they want to see an all put together person), but I think there will be a lot of people who will see that you are genuine, and not a made-up pretender. God bless you.

 

[HopingForJesus]

Thank you Lily and Frank. I am going to definitely have to pray and keep asking for courage and boldness because I am weak without his help.
Frank the point you made is a very good one and helpful. I am often ashamed to tell people in person about my mental health issues and my struggles, but if I could use it for the benefit of God then it would be well worth it.
Peace

 

[LadyL]

I try to share about Christ and not hide who I am. That's why I try not to be afraid of telling people about my struggles(to the point that they would understand). I think that makes it real to people that there are christians, who even though are struggling with all kinds of different issues, still can maintain their faith to The Lord. It is actually a good sign of the power of God working in your life. Some people might not receive you(because they want to see an all put together person), but I think there will be a lot of people who will see that you are genuine, and not a made-up pretender. God bless you.

Very good point, Frank!

You're right, it should be to the glory of God. I guess I should sincerely pray about not being afraid to show my weaknesses to others, in fear of their judgements.