Terrible thoughts that are dwelled on

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When do terrible thoughts that are dwelled On become sinful?

Very recently I had a thought of something not going in my favour and then I had a terrible, evil thought of a hypothetical situation of myself doing something. I dwelled on it until I caught myself and my conscience told me it was wrong and evil. Then I got rid of it. I knew this thought is evil, I hate it. I have zero intentions on acting out on these thoughts nor would I ever want to act out on these thoughts if I could.

Is this a terribly grave sin? The thought was terrible, I hate it. It was one of the most evil things I think I could have ever had the displeasure of crossing my mind. And I’m scared I willfully brought it on.
 
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Ok, thanks for the article.

It may sound like I’m not in sin, as I got rid of the thought as soon as my conscience told me to. I had nothing else tell me to not think this, before my conscience. It just kinda popped up, and I dwelled on it for a few seconds, and got rid of it. So perhaps if I ignored that, then that would be the full knowledge, and complete content required with mortal sin? I felt really bad, and quite emotional after realizing this thought was so evil, and I had dwelled on it for a few moments, but I’m glad I kicked it out.

In any case I’m meeting with my priest on Thursday, and I can discuss this there, with him in more detail.

Thanks again for the article, it really did give me some peace of mind. God Bless you!
 
I also have another question you may be able to answer, though it may be a better question for the priest, though I don’t think there is any harm in asking.

Would I always know I consented to a mortal sin? Or could I consent in my subconscious, and not really know I consented?

I know mortal sin requires:
  • Grave Matter
  • Full Knowledge
  • Complete Consent
Also is the full knowledge knowing something is a mortal sin? Or is the full knowledge not only being aware of that X is a mortal sin, but also know you’re committing it?

Also is sufficient reflection required, for a sin to be mortal?

I’m a pretty new Catholic, so I don’t know a whole lot about anything.
 
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I found this helpful as well… though the account of the man who made a good and sincere confession on his deathbed, but then was damned because he consented to a lustful thought moments later is truly terrifying…if even a deathbed confession doesn’t guarantee heaven, who among us will avoid hell? I would like to think God’s mercy is poured out in earnest on one’s deathbed, particularly for someone who has received the sacraments.
 
Username7 said:
Would I always know I consented to a mortal sin?
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Yes. Because when you do commit a mortal sin you have no doubt - you know full well it is grave matter, (and the matter is grave), and you freely and deliberately choose to do it.
Username7 said:
Or could I consent in my subconscious, and not really know I consented?
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To sin is a free choice. One cannot sin by accident nor can one sin whilst asleep. If there is any consent then you consciously know it.

Judging by your past posts, your acknowledgement of OCD, and scrupulosity I can’t recommend highly enough that you take these questions to your priest. When scrupulosity is bad, monthly appointments with your priest may not be enough. Perhaps you ask him if you could email him your questions (it takes less time) and he may be able to fit answering an email in his day easier than weekly appointments.

Secondly. Obey his directions regarding Communion and Confession and do not give in to the temptation to seek “other opinions” in order to obtain relief either from the OCD or fear & anxiety of scrupulosity.

Thirdly, buy yourself a Catechism and study it. (I read mine from the cover to the end, some numbers or a few pages each night before bed).

Fourthly I recommend this book -
https://www.amazon.com/Pardon-peace-Alfred-Wilson/dp/B0007EDTUM
 
I never thought of asking if I could email him questions, I may ask him when I meet with him this week.

Also I will look into buying a Catechism. And I will check out the book ‘Pardon and Peace’

Thank you for your posts and help, it’s really given me some peace of mind. And I’m very great full for that.
 
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