We all have them: thoughts or desires that pop into our heads—some uninvited, others invited. There have been many times when, after such a thought, I was relieved that it was only in my mind and not flashing in lights for all to see.

On one occasion, a thought had been plaguing me for several days. I just wanted to be rid of it. This thought was not helpful and would not further my relationship with Christ or others. Although I had prayed about it many times, my heart felt restless. I knew the temptation itself was not sin, nor had I acted on it, but why would this thought not leave me alone?

That Sunday, my pastor talked about the importance of being real in our relationships. A few days later, I was having coffee with a close friend. As we shared the normal and the messy, I felt like God kept prompting me to share the messiest. But what would my friend think of me?

God reminded me that He sees all of me—including the parts I am most ashamed of—and His love for me is unshaken. I knew I needed to be open and honest with my friend, who also loves God. I took a deep breath and said, “Could I tell you a thought I’ve been having that I know isn’t good? I need someone to listen and give me some godly wisdom.”

After I told my friend, I felt such freedom. She listened, gave wise advice, did not judge, and committed to pray for me. I also asked her to keep me accountable to make sure I did not cross the line into sin. Being open and honest healed. • Savannah Coleman

⦁ Temptation is not a sin (Hebrews 4:14-16), and neither are intrusive thoughts, a common mental health struggle that happens when the brain overfocuses on something that horrifies or disturbs you. When a thought pops into your head, you are not bound by it. It’s just a thought. It only becomes sin when it begins to impact how you view and treat God, yourself, and others. Who are trusted people—such as counselors, friends, parents, or pastors—you can be open and honest with? How can you be a safe person for others, someone who will listen without passing judgment and offer to help shoulder a burden?

Carry one another’s burdens; in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. Galatians 6:2 (CSB)