Just when I told the Holy Spirit I had trouble controlling my thoughts I stumbled upon Sirach 21:11

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DrawNearToGod

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“Whoever keeps the law controls his thoughts”
Sirach 21:11

I have had depression for years and part of the reason I don’t have hope for change is that I can’t seem to control negative thoughts, it seems like my mind is just a space for the same repetitive negative thoughts to come and dominate.

Does anyone know what this verse is saying and how one controls their thoughts?
 
  • [21:11–28] The mind of the wise is a fountain of knowledge (vv. 13, 15); their will is trained to keep the Law (v. 11); their words are gracious, valued, carefully weighed, sincere (vv. 16–17, 25–26); their conduct is respectful, cultured and restrained (vv. 20, 22–24). The mind of the foolish is devoid of knowledge and impenetrable to it (vv. 12, 14, 18–19); their will rejects it (v. 15); their talk is burdensome (v. 16), their laughter unrestrained (v. 20), their conversation shallow and meddlesome (vv. 25–26); their conduct is bold and rude (vv. 22–24); their abuse of others redounds on themselves (vv. 27–28).
 
Perhaps what God means by “control” is as you’ve defined it?
 
Without going into an in depth study of Sirach 21, I think my answer and Sirach 13, 15 would be really good.

Mind what you assent to and train your will accordingly.

Thanks, @Guest1
 
I’ve dealt with depression and obsessive/intrusive thoughts for a long time myself. It’s quite a bad trip.

Just focus and don’t be swerved by your thoughts.
 
I get intrusive thoughts too. But we aren’t our thoughts.

Gain knowledge of your faith via reading the bible Catechism for two examples if you are unlearned. That way you know what God says versus what the world and your thoughts say.

💖
 

Romans 12:2 Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (RSVCE)​

2 Do not be conformed to this world[a] but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that you may prove what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.[b] 🌷🙂
 
Reading good spiritual books helps as well.

And, when an intrusive thought enters your mind use it as an occasion to say a short prayer such as “Jesus, I trust in You.”
 
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