Hoarding Thoughts
In a previous post, we discussed how our thoughts contribute to our moods and feelings. Today, we are taking inventory of these thoughts and identifying what to replace them with.
Hoarding is a psychiatric disorder that is define to be “persistent difficulty discarding or parting with a possession, regardless of their actual values, as a result of a strong perceived need to save the items and the distress associated with discarding them” (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). In other words, no matter the value of the item, productive or unproductive, unwilling to let the item go even if the item is able to conduct harm to them and/or their space.
We may immediately recall the television show, Hoarders, where individuals who go through a process of discarding useless items in their home that occupy so much space that it is difficult to live in the home. Some were able to successfully part ways with items, downsize, and manage it to where they were no longer captive to the items. Other continued to struggle, holding on to items that served no other purpose than a sense of comfort. This is what it can look like in our own homes, and even in our minds.
“What are you hoarding?”
Philippians 4:8-9 states, “Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praise worthy - meditate on these things. The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace be with you” (NKJV).
If you are not experiencing peace, then it may be time to do some spring cleaning and take inventory of the things that you are meditating on. Consider the thoughts you have frequently when you’re alone or have downtime.
You can begin by asking yourself these series of questions:
What thoughts or ideas have been taking up space in my mind?
Why have I been holding on to these things?
What am I hoping comes about from me holding on to these? What purpose do they serve?
What fruit has been produced as a result of these thoughts or ideas? (See Galatians 5:22-23 for wisdom regarding bearing fruit.)
Are these fruits reflecting the life I desire to live? Is God pleased with these fruit and/or thoughts?
What are some things that are true, noble, just, pure, lovely, of good report, virtuous, and praises worthy that I can meditate on instead?
If you are finding that you would like to further talk about your thoughts and feelings with a trusted individual, please seek mental health support or pastoral support.
Take a look at our resources page for a list of contact to help get you connected!
With love,
Crystal