Welcome back to our “Heart Song” series! In this second post, we’re diving deep into the topic of a deceptive heart. Our hearts are powerful, and whatever resides in them influences our entire lives. If we have a heart full of anger, it will color our actions and interactions with others. Today, let’s explore how to heal a deceptive heart, especially for us Christian women with ADHD who often struggle with self-deception and negative self-talk.
The Deceptive Heart
Jeremiah 17:9 in the New Living Translation says, “The human heart is the most deceitful of all things, and desperately wicked. Who really knows how bad it is?” This scripture highlights a crucial truth: our hearts can lead us astray. The heart, with its mix of emotions and thoughts, can be deceitful, making us believe lies about ourselves and our circumstances.
As women with ADHD, we may be particularly prone to this. Our minds can be a whirlwind, and we often find ourselves battling negative self-talk and self-deception. But there’s hope! Let’s explore three key strategies to recognize and challenge these deceptive thoughts.
Recognize and Challenge Negative Thoughts with Scripture
First and foremost, we need to recognize the negative thoughts that creep into our minds. Are you telling yourself that you’re not good enough? That you’ll never be able to manage your ADHD? These are lies from a deceitful heart.
Combat these lies with the truth of scripture. Write down verses that speak life and truth. Here are a few to get you started:
- 2 Corinthians 10:5 (NLT): “We destroy every proud obstacle that keeps people from knowing God. We capture their rebellious thoughts and teach them to obey Christ.”
- Philippians 4:8 (NLT): “And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.”
Whenever you catch yourself in negative self-talk, counter it with these scriptures. Let God’s Word transform your heart and mind.
Journal to Uncover Patterns of Self-Deception
Journaling is a powerful tool for uncovering the patterns of self-deception in your life. Set aside a few minutes each day to write about your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Pay attention to recurring themes of negativity or self-doubt.
Ask yourself:
- What am I feeling right now?
- What triggered these feelings?
- Are these thoughts based on truth, or are they lies from a deceptive heart?
As you journal, you’ll start to see patterns. This awareness is the first step to healing. You can then apply scripture to those specific areas where you struggle, using God’s truth to rewrite the deceptive narratives.
Seek Accountability and Support from a Trusted Friend or Coach
We were never meant to walk this journey alone. Seeking accountability and support from a trusted friend or coach can be incredibly beneficial. Share your struggles with someone who can offer you biblical counsel and encouragement.
Having an accountability partner helps you stay grounded in truth. They can remind you of God’s promises when you’re feeling low and help you see things from a different perspective.
Consider joining a small group or finding a coach who understands ADHD and can provide strategies for managing it while keeping Christ at the center. The encouragement and support from someone who gets it can make a world of difference.
Healing a deceptive heart is a journey, but it’s one that we don’t have to take alone. By recognizing and challenging negative thoughts with scripture, journaling to uncover patterns of self-deception, and seeking accountability and support, we can start to see real transformation. Remember, the song your heart sings matters. Let it be one of truth, hope, and love.
Let’s Chat!
- What are some ways you have found helpful in combating negative self-talk?
- How has scripture played a role in your journey to healing?
- Can you share a moment when journaling helped you uncover a pattern of self-deception?
Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Let’s build a strong and safe community of support!
Thank you for joining me in this “Heart Song” series. Stay tuned for more insights and encouragement as we continue to explore the issues of the heart. Let’s keep our hearts tuned to the song of God’s truth and grace.