Podcast Summary: The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast – "What to Do About Intrusive Thoughts"
Episode Information:
- Title: What to Do About Intrusive Thoughts
- Host/Author: Ascension Presents featuring Fr. Mike Schmitz
- Release Date: November 7, 2024
- Description: Fr. Mike Schmitz explores the nature of intrusive thoughts, their origins, and offers both natural and supernatural strategies to manage and overcome them.
Introduction to Intrusive Thoughts
In this episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz delves into the challenging topic of intrusive thoughts—those unwanted, often distressing thoughts that can cause significant anxiety and self-doubt. He begins by acknowledging the confusion that many experience when grappling with these thoughts, questioning their own mental and spiritual well-being.
Defining Intrusive Thoughts
Fr. Mike defines intrusive thoughts comprehensively:
"These intrusive thoughts can be intrusive sexual thoughts. They can be intrusive thoughts of anger or of violence. They can be intrusive thoughts about harming others, harming themselves..."
— Fr. Mike Schmitz [01:30]
He emphasizes that intrusive thoughts are not indicative of one's character flaws but are a common human experience, particularly among those who are "good and broken."
Understanding the Natural Explanation
Fr. Mike explains that on a natural level, our brains are incredibly active and dynamic:
"Our brains are amazingly always working. They’re always moving. They’re always changing."
— Fr. Mike Schmitz [02:10]
He highlights that the constant activity of the brain means thoughts are perpetually in flux, making it natural for unwanted thoughts to arise. Distractions during prayer, work, or daily activities are normal due to this inherent brain activity.
The Role of External and Internal Prompts
Fr. Mike discusses how both external influences and internal states contribute to the emergence of intrusive thoughts:
"Am I inviting any unwanted external prompts? Maybe I've been listening to a bunch of angry people online..."
— Fr. Mike Schmitz [04:45]
He suggests that consuming negative or impure content can lead to the proliferation of unwanted thoughts, encapsulated in the adage "garbage in, garbage out." By identifying and reducing exposure to such content, individuals can mitigate the frequency and intensity of intrusive thoughts.
The Supernatural Dimension: Grace and Brokenness
Transitioning to the supernatural level, Fr. Mike introduces the concept of original sin and concupiscence—the inherent inclination towards sin that affects all humans:
"We experience ourselves, our minds being brought to this place where there's thoughts that are intrusive, thoughts that are unwanted, thoughts that even we would say are evil."
— Fr. Mike Schmitz [07:15]
He reassures listeners that these intrusive thoughts are part of human brokenness and not a reflection of one's true self. Recognizing this brokenness is essential in seeking divine grace and support.
Practical Steps to Manage Intrusive Thoughts
Fr. Mike outlines actionable strategies to handle intrusive thoughts effectively:
-
Attend to the Thoughts:
- Examine if the intrusive thoughts signal underlying issues.
- Determine if they indicate physical needs such as rest or nourishment.
"Attend to them to see, like, is this teaching me or telling me anything?"
— Fr. Mike Schmitz [14:20] -
Acknowledge and Seek Divine Help:
- Recognize that these thoughts are unwanted and seek Jesus' assistance.
- Utilize simple prayers to invite divine protection over one's heart and mind.
"Jesus, just surround my heart."
— Fr. Mike Schmitz [16:05]"Lord Jesus, in your name, I invite you, please surround my mind."
— Fr. Mike Schmitz [16:25] -
Surrender and Protect:
- Surrender the intrusive thoughts to God, asking the Holy Spirit to guard against them.
- Maintain peace by not giving these thoughts undue importance.
"Father, send your Holy Spirit to wrap my heart in your protection. Send your Holy Spirit to guard my mind."
— Fr. Mike Schmitz [17:10]
Maintaining Peace Amidst Intrusive Thoughts
Fr. Mike emphasizes that peace is attainable even when intrusive thoughts persist:
"You can be at peace even in the midst of intrusive thoughts, when you know there's a natural explanation, there's a supernatural explanation, and there's a natural and supernatural solution."
— Fr. Mike Schmitz [18:40]
He encourages listeners to refrain from letting these thoughts dominate their emotional state, advocating for continual prayer and reliance on God's support to maintain inner tranquility.
Conclusion and Encouragement
Wrapping up, Fr. Mike offers reassurance:
"Have no anxiety about anything, but in everything with prayer and petition, make your request known to God..."
— Fr. Mike Schmitz [19:30]
He invites listeners to embrace both the natural understanding of their mental processes and the supernatural aid provided through faith, fostering a balanced approach to managing intrusive thoughts.
Key Takeaways:
- Intrusive thoughts are a common human experience and do not reflect one's character.
- Understanding the natural activity of the brain can alleviate self-blame for unwanted thoughts.
- Reducing exposure to negative external influences can lessen the occurrence of intrusive thoughts.
- Recognizing inherent human brokenness necessitates seeking divine grace and support.
- Practical steps include examining the source of thoughts, seeking Jesus' protection through prayer, and surrendering control to maintain peace.
Notable Quotes:
-
"Our brains are amazingly always working. They’re always moving. They’re always changing."
— Fr. Mike Schmitz [02:10] -
"Jesus, just surround my heart."
— Fr. Mike Schmitz [16:05] -
"Father, send your Holy Spirit to wrap my heart in your protection. Send your Holy Spirit to guard my mind."
— Fr. Mike Schmitz [17:10] -
"Have no anxiety about anything, but in everything with prayer and petition, make your request known to God..."
— Fr. Mike Schmitz [19:30]
This episode provides a compassionate and faith-based perspective on managing intrusive thoughts, blending psychological understanding with spiritual practice to offer listeners both relief and actionable strategies.