Where Do Evil Thoughts Come From?

Q. I have a very intimate relationship with the Lord. I frequently ask the Lord to search my heart and see if there is any wicked way in me. Desiring for him to reveal attitudes or behaviors that need to be changed.

Lately it seems like thoughts pop into my head of an evil nature, like making a childish excuse or telling a lie over some small matter such as why I am late. I immediately recognize this as an evil thought and denounce it. It has been years since I felt I needed to make excuses when I am at fault. Dealing with such a situation honestly and asking for forgiveness has proved to be a blessing. I am disturbed and wondering why this is suddenly an issue with me.

A. Satan can plant thoughts in our minds as a form of attack, trying to make us sin. They can be anything from the normal things like anger, lust, envy, etc. to thoughts of a more sinister nature. These thoughts don’t become sin unless we accept them and begin to consider them. This is why Paul taught us to take every thought captive and make it obedient to Christ. (2 Cor. 10:3-5)