COMBATING EVIL THOUGHTS

The Church Fathers teach us how to combat evil thoughts. The epidemic of mental ill-health is partly the fruit of the harm caused by evil thoughts.

[@FatherSpyridonROCOR]

My new book "Orthodox Wisdom" can be seen here :www.amazon.com/s?k=father+spyridon+bailey&crid=IXK2CSJX2LX3&sprefix=father+spyridon%2Caps%2C171&ref=nb_sb_ss_ts-doa-p_1_15

[@user-zt8ri7pw6j]

Deus vult..!

[@JosephPopovic-ku2jq]

Hello Father Spyridon, I don't know if you will see this, it's fine if you don't. I am young and am discerning a monastic vocation, in the future could you possibly make a video on monasticism and marriage? Thank you so much father you are so awesome at teaching, may the lord have mercy on us all.

[@abointedtoyblingofmats]

Why did Yahweh allow me to be a Cainite, fr?

[@constantineremia6241]

Viva Yeshua

[@user-wf4fv4oc1h]

@@abointedtoyblingofmats Old Covenant. It is no longer. You have the Holy Spirit to Acquire! You are legit. Seek Christ through the Orthodox Church. The West is a goner.

[@UnworthyBranch]

Father, I was hazed by a frat 5 years ago and about 8 months ago all the suppressed trauma from what happened became unmanageable. I was forced to do many things including eating disgusting foods in order to vomit over 100 times in a 3 day span, and not sleep for the 3 days as well. At the end we were forced to smoke an extraordinary amount of weed and I was singled out to smoke a dab which is 90% THC concentrate and I had a nervous breakdown. About a year and a half ago I came to Christ and Orthodoxy and watched most of not all of your videos. For the last 8 months my spiritual father has been visiting me at my house because I have been unable to leave my house. I have not been able to swallow solid food because of what happened and liquids are still difficult. I am in constant pain all throughout my body and it has been labeled as “Complex PTSD” by doctors. Please pray for me, this has been the most difficult time for me and my family who is struggling as well. I’m not sure if all of this made sense but I am completely devastated at the moment and could use your prayers. My name is Alex and I am from California. Thank you

[@Real_Life_Eren_Yeager]

Lord have mercy

[@joseph-medicis]

Jesus Christ have Mercy upon us 🙏🏻

[@UnworthyBranch]

@@normalchild1998 thank you

[@kathyw7303]

Pray with all your heart, unceasingly "Lord Have Mercy" over and over. I will pray for you. God hears our prayers! Every day thank God - even if it is one small thing. His mercy is infinite !

[@bezagebremedhine5102]

May The Holy Virgin Mother of God be close too you dear beloved child of God♥

[@carolineshenouda8453]

As my confession father says, you cannot stop the birds from flying over your head (thoughts), but you can stop them from making a nest and settling on your head. This has helped me a lot. 🙏

[@joshnyvox1525]

That reminds me of a quote of Saint Paisios, I think he got the inspiration from him. Saint Paisios: “Thoughts are like airplanes flying in the air. If you ignore them, there is no problem. If you pay attention to them, you create an airport inside your head and permit them to land!”

[@carolineshenouda8453]

@@joshnyvox1525 yes possibly inspired. Each priest has their own version but same concept. God bless

[@guspapadopoulos]

Very well said. Saint Paisios says something similar in :Evil thoughts are like air planes flying above you; the motive here is don't let them land on your runway. God love you.

[@kennygold217]

I need this beautiful.

[@carolineshenouda8453]

@@kennygold217 God bless you and keep you in His loving arms 🙏

[@kv8625]

Pray with humility, hate sin, crush thoughts in infancy, fill mind with virttue, shake off evil thoughts like flies, remain on guard.

[@chrrymshrms]

realll. nice way of summing this up

[@tylerfast106]

What do you do when sexual temptation DOES NOT STOP !!!! I’m trying so hard but the fight is not only daily but minute by minute. I feel worn out at times and have to turn to God CONSTANTLY. I don’t know what I would do without Him but it’s tremendously tough. I’ve quit drugs, smoking…. Nothing compares to the temptation of lust

[@user-qs3zt8xe5t]

@@tylerfast106 Run. Lust and sexual sin is the only sin which God recommends us to run away from, Ignore lust, do not feed it, destroy anything that enables you to lust. when you think of it, pray and fill it with virture and focus on God. when you start to Focus more on God than sin, sin will naturally fade awy.

[@tylerfast106]

Thank you. I appreciate your advice. God bless you ❤

[@scope.7013]

@@tylerfast106 Mark 9:29 “So He said to them, “This kind can come out by nothing but prayer and fasting.” certain sins can only be overcome by prayer and fasting. it helps me a lot to spend time in a quiet room and praying alone, telling God about my temptations and asking him to deliver me from them. maybe ask the Mother of God to intercede for you and others who have the same temptation. i will pray for you brother, may God bless you 🙏

[@waynecampbell8531]

I have immense struggles with anger, wrath, lust, and addiction to weed. I often lash out at people in public, which has put me in dangerous situations several times. Later, I’ll deeply regret my rudeness and evil thoughts towards these people. I wish I had more patience. Because of this, I isolate myself. I don’t have friends or a girlfriend. I just sit in my apartment, often in despair, and smoke weed. I worry about how this affects me physically and spiritually, but it’s so hard to stop. I’ve gone a week without smoking, but I always fail during the weekend while I’m at home. I’ve tried exercising and eating healthy, and I’ve gotten in great shape, but my mind is still in the same dark place. Lately, I’ve felt a strong calling to come to Jesus. I’m glad to have found Father Spyridon, and I hope I can overcome this adversity and grow closer to God with his help. Please pray for me.

[@tracerfacer6234]

I could have written this verbatim. 😢 Praying for the both of us.

[@waynecampbell8531]

@@tracerfacer6234 Thanks, bro. I will pray for you also.

[@spartymatt9627]

Brother, your story is so similar to my own, even though my struggles were primarily with depression, but I tried coping with drugs, food, exercise, therapy, medication, etc and the best I ever got was white-knuckling it (things are going okay for awhile, but I'm always fearful of, not if, but when the next ball will drop and I will fall back into darkness) At my worst, I was convinced (by thoughts that I know now to be from evil) that my family and friends and the world would be better off without me. My life changed when I decided to drop my questions on specifics of theology, my fears of what people will think of me, even my disbelief, and said "I don't know if there is a God, but if He is out there, and actually created all the heavens and earth, and actually is Love and Truth and Justice and Goodness itself, and actually sent his Son Jesus to walk the earth as a human and die for our sins, and not only that, but this God of the universe loves ME and wants to help me and have a personal relationship with me, like I am his child? ....I would want that! And if that is true, of course I would hand my life completely over to him!" And in that moment of decision, the Holy Spirit came into my heart and has been changing my life. I have not known peace until I met the Lord. I did not know how amazing and beautiful and valuable PEACE is, and how badly I needed it, until God gave it to me. You can have peace brother, you just need to give your heart and offer your love and devotion to God, and he WILL take care of you. Everyone needs someone to take care of them. In my life, I realized I was unable to do a good job of taking care of myself, so I asked the God of everything and everyone if he could help me, and He mercifully and gently and lovingly embraced me and is taking care of me now. "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30

[@LostAndFound110]

You do not have to stop smoking weed my friend weed is not a sin that addiction is pray and belive jesus christ died on the cross for you and god will save Will from hellfire I WENT TRHOUGH THE SAME EXACT SITUATION GOD HELPED ME NOT EVE KIDDING I FELT IT YOU CAN REALLY EXPLAIN IT EXCEPT LET HIM IN YOUR HEART. READ THE TEN COMMANDS LOVE YOU MY BROTHER

[@phantomsoru5373]

Praying for you 🙏🏻

[@flyabove8168]

I want to share my experience with evil thoughts in case it helps anyone!! out there. About 13 years ago when I was about 20 years old and sinning a lot with pornography, I started having sexually descriptive thoughts and images in my head about other people I was looking at (let's say in the bus, at school, pretty much everywhere...). I tried to fight those thoughts by myself for several months and they were only getting worse. I was getting exausted as every day from waking up to going to sleep it was a constant struggle to push them away. Eventually (I can never forget), one day as I was getting out of the bus and I was at the end of my mental energy to try to fight those thoughts, (mind you I was going to church every Sunday for 3+years at that point) I finally gave in and asked God for his help. I said in my mind "God please help me, I cannot fight this on my own anymore" (crying now when remembering that moment). And like a weight being lifted off my shoulders I NEVER had that fight again not for 1 minute even since!!! Grace to God!!! If ever I have evil thoughts I say like Saint Silouan tought us: God I am a bigger sinner than everyone else. Have mercy on me! And I find peace again right away! God bless us all!

[@earlbegay1534]

I stopped drinking, smoking committing adultery. I was addicted for over half my life. But pornography is now my greatest stronghold. It is this sin that is crushing me and pushing me away from Jesus.

[@ChickenSandwitch-rs2fj]

Amen✝️

[@ChriisSky]

Give it all to Jesus ❤

[@irishcountryman4866]

Say the St Benedict prayer. Very powerful.

[@djxotic5168]

Ima pray for this because ugh these evil intrusive thoughts are just so annoying and they truly affect me, I don't act on them but it disturbs me that they just appear in My mind, im a child of god always and forever, I hate the devil

[@dimitritsat1]

Intrusive, evil, unwanted thoughts should be thought of like the sound of a barking dog, to be ignored. You can’t stop a dog from barking but all it is, is noise Fr. Ephraim of Arizona

[@crusader5256]

I am desperately trying to have faith in my salvation, father, but great evil seemingly dwells within me. I pray you, and you(whoever reads this comment) that you shall pray for me. I pray blessing over you, and peace for your troubled hearts.

[@FatherSpyridonROCOR]

The capacity to recognise darkness in ourselves is the work of God’s grace. This does not mean the darkness is not there, but that you can be assured you are not abandoned by God because of it. Our only hope is God’s mercy, every one of us is deserving of punishment, but we may have hope because Christ came to save sinners. Trust in His love for you and His willingness to forgive if we repent. God bless you

[@RedDeckRedemption]

the Scriptures tell us to test ourselves to see if we are in the Faith. that's why Saint John wrote his epistles. read 1st John for your encouragement. also, be aware of the duel attack strategy of the demons. the first attack is the temptation to whatever sin, then after you commit the sin, they strike you with guilt and say "haha you say you're a Christian but you did that? God won't forgive you for that one" (as an example) and try to keep you from repenting. also don't focus on the failures, and don't base your assurance on your works....for as Saint Paul says "for by grace you have been saved" and Saint John "if we sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the Righteous" confess your sins in prayer to God, in faith that Jesus paid the full price when He declared on the cross "It is Finished" remember the account of Jesus walking on water, and then when Peter got out of the boat and walked toward Him on the water. it was when Peter looked around at the waves and wind and stopped looking at Jesus, is when he began to sink. pray continually that God would send the Holy Spirit to give you faith in Christ. and not just prayer alone, but pray and then Read the scriptures, for that is where He will open your mind and show you the answers. I'm new to the faith as well and this has helped me greatly. God bless

[@bro4539]

Stay strong, brother.

[@abrahamicreligionsbowbefor3585]

i feel same as you.

[@user-mg5ed3qk1b]

I'm like a renegade christian, that might sound like an oxymoron but in this fallen world maybe it's not, any way, the point I would like to make to you sir, who feels like you can't be saved....the Russian Orthodox padre here ain't lying to ya....Christ doesn't have the power to forgive some sins, he doesn't have power to forgive only these sins......he has the power to forgive ALL sin! If the devils are putting you on a trip, hey no sweat....what did Michael say to Satan when they contended of the bones of Moses, "what do I have to do with thee Satan, the LORD God has rebuked thee." What's the point here, don't argue with Satan, he is rebuked by he who speaks and one is or one is not....hang in there kid....your doing fine, praise Christ!

[@marie22tully10]

Father. I feel very angry about the evil being pushed on society and especially children. I try to remember to pray for these people but I get overwhelmed by anger. Thank you for reminding me to keep my focus on God.

[@kiriaioulia]

Yes! How easy it is to fall into the devils trap by having anger and hate towards those who are lost to his ways!!!! This was an excellent reminder for us all! Glory to God!

[@SRBOMBONICA86]

​​​@@kiriaiouliabut they are so prideful ,THAT angers me,Lord have mercy

[@damnmexican90]

Why shouldn't you be angry? Did your lord not say it's better to toss pedophiles and other abusers and predators of children to be thrown into a lake with a boulder chained to their neck? There's a reason why our Lord said what he said, and prescribed that specific form of execution. Even in judgement we are expected to show mercy and compassion, even within the context of war and or capital punishment.

[@Magdalena-ow7gy]

I too struggle with the anger of the injustices and abominations against the children, then we children grow into adulthood watching these same things go on. No one holding the perpetrators accountable... Girls grow up labeled as wicked fornicators, young bots growing up too become sexual predators. Our Lord said the little ones that whatever is done onto them is sin against Him... He will heal us eventually even though so often that healing process hurts and makes us feel abandoned at times... Love you in Christ...pray 🙏🏼🙏🏼 for me I will pray for you

[@christinechancy6468]

It's horrific what is happening to our country and the persecution of Christians here in the West. We have to pray! ☦️🙏🏼

[@VIKINGHUN]

Young people being taught Good is evil and evil is Good. You nailed it! God Bless!

[@BroughtBackToBreathe]

"Sinful thoughts continually disturb a man. But if he does not cooperate with them, then he is not guilty of them." Those are very beautiful words you have found.

[@bennmullins3064]

That almost made me cry, I deal with OCD so I'm barraged by bad and terrible thoughts, it is literally like living with demons in my mind.

[@user-nt4cr3rv7k]

@bennmullins3064 I’ll pray for you🙏🏼

[@Trevordank]

@@bennmullins3064I’m with you, developed like symptoms after the last time I smoked weed, had a breakdown &. It’s been 5 years but I’m almost back to normal but still battle with such thoughts & feeling sometimes

[@Trevordank]

@@bennmullins3064just know you’re not alone, was made 90% of my old feelings & thoughts calm down and go away was to surround myself with positive people, workout 5-6 days a week, & eat healthy and refrain from my phone. No medication can give you the same benefits

[@Julians1996]

Thank you. I have been hazed in the military so badly that even after many years of being out the pain still lingers today. I asked for some prayers please because it destroying my mental health

[@user-nj4we4uq3c]

Thanks father, I am a japanese and so I have no opportunity to hear a preach of christian in usual life. In Japan there is no culture of religion, and so as I, I can't let me believe something transcendental. But at least I believe humanity and faith, and sometimes I need a salvation and strength.

[@CopticCommentary-nu6xj]

Note to self. Take action & save your soul. Confess & partake of the Eucharist weekly. Be intentional with every call, every meeting, every video, every music. Do an inventory of your friends, pray for friendships & relationships that are Godly. Block that friend, limit screen time, watch every word that comes out of your mouth, spend time in prayer, forget the world & the lust of it for it is passing away

[@carolineshenouda8453]

Amen 🙏

[@liamcarlson5377]

Father Spyridon, I could not help but notice there was an inch worm crawling up your garment near the end of your lesson, and this made me smile.

[@countdooku75]

Same, it was kinda cute tho

[@tedcorey3054]

"Angels Praying for us", is an amazing thought . How can we lose ? Thanks for the guidance , Father .

[@orthocoinbitzantium1002]

Fake account

[@antonkirani2758]

Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me a sinner. Thank you for your words Father.

[@surafel.t949]

On all of us❤

[@bezagebremedhine5102]

Amen

[@antonkirani2758]

@Father_Spyridon Thank you for your videos on KZbin. They provide me with a lot of comfort and guidance.

[@antonkirani2758]

@Father_Spyridon Thank you for your videos Father they provide me with a lot of strength and comfort....

[@AlexandarShmex]

@@antonkirani2758 Brother, that's a fake account you responded to, it's a scam. Just report it.

[@Idkwhattonamess]

Father Spyridon, I used to be more of a Buddhist, a spiritualist and pantheist, God has been giving me so many clues to lead me to orthodoxy. Starting with a video about a Buddhist man seeing hell on my recommended page IMMEDIATELY after questioning spirituality. I became more orthodox after SO SO many clues that could not be explained by simple coincidence, I was on the right path. In the past few days though, I started feeling like I was falling away, I was scared. I had been attacked by the devil one night I could barely sleep, the next day (or two days later, can't remember) I was attacked again during prayer, getting uncontrollable, wicker thoughts that I knew weren't from me. The fear and the thoughts went on... Tonight, I got a video recommended to me about how to combat evil thoughts, telling me to ignore it, that trying to truly "defeat" the wicked one is putting less attention to almighty God. Satan is the best actor, unfortunately. I realized that the message was meant for me, it was on my page for a reason because every time I got a single thought from the devil, I immediately turned my attention from God to "defeating" Satan. To cursing him and calling out bible verses in my head to make the psychological torture go off and it stemmed from the fear, the fear I had of straying away from God made me fall farther away from God. After I watched the video, I turned my attention to a small prayer, I turned my attention to God, I ignored any evil thoughts and after just a little bit of that, I was immersed into my prayer and all thoughts of material all faded away as the picture of God grew so vivid in my mind, it was like I was standing in front of God himself. After the prayer, I realized I was in earth, which seemed to be a shock. RIGHT AFTER this, this video gets recommended and I am shocked. There are no orthodox churches in my area as most of the people here are non-religious or catholic, but I wanna get baptized by orthodox church, I have never been baptized, I am still pretty new to Christianity, but have been studying it daily and reading about different denominations and can confirm that orthodoxy, in my opinion, is the best.

[@ayonio5723]

Keeping moving forward my friend and continue to read and rely upon the words of Christ and the Holy Fathers in the Orthodox Church

[@orthodox1717]

May GOD BLESS you on your journey to Orthodoxy. The demons have hit you hard because Orthodoxy is the TRUTH! They don’t want you to pursue the TRUTH of Christ’s Holy Church! Do not give up! Pray to our Lord and Savior to help you endure. Pray to the Theotokos and the Saints to intercede for you. Where do you live?

[@mizchulita]

Focusing on God and not them is indeed the key. "Oh, magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together!" Psalm 34:3

[@user-wf4fv4oc1h]

Stay on the right path. Good reading helps - Orthodox Study Bible, and books by Fr. Spyridon and Fr. Seraphim Rose.

[@gianina3125]

Are you in Uk?

[@OGgiraffeneck91]

The world needs to be more exposed to spiritual wisdom like this, rather than mind numbing garbage. Thanks for what you do man. God is love.

[@imwantedin42countries]

I am being bombarded with evil thoughts very often. Sexual sin, lying, hatred, gluttony and sloth all plague my mind and cause me to act against God. I feel horrible when I realize this. I was recommended this channel by a friend of mine and I am happy for these resources. I aspire to talk to God more than I talk to people, and to serve Him every second of every day. Of course this is impossible, but I would like to believe.

[@joana_sweetness]

Father please pray for me. I am a rising freshman attending a liberal school and it’s literally propaganda. I have never seen anything like it and I don’t know what to do. If I speak up about it’s perversion, things will happen to me and I’m stuck. I don’t know what to do. I feel so lonely. You are absolutely correct about social media and I had the guts to delete all of it but it was such a strong passion and desire for me not to give it up. Regardless please pray for me because this is something I struggle with extremely, and I feel God enlightened you so much to make this video. May God grant you salvation and eternal blessings. Please have mercy upon me a sinner.

[@OrthodoxInquirer]

Joana, please don't feel like you have to stay there. People can transfer schools. May the Lord guide you.

[@GThomas-qq6mp]

Hey Joana, what I can tell as I'm a little older. You as a younger individual should try to focus on your education and your relationships with your friends. Try to find rest and focus on succeeding and don't forget to have fucking fun! The adults need to solve this!!!! Not you and your peers. Let it not ruin your fun years. We see the guilt tripping pushed on the younger generations, even during covid. Everyone has had enough with their bullshit, we are in the millions if not billions around the world.

[@MegaAlhaqiqa]

We all feel the same way! Always bless these lost people and leave the rest to God

[@joana_sweetness]

@@OrthodoxInquirer thank you for your kindness. I feel so lost but I know I have to keep trying. Don’t be like, and may God grant you salvation.

[@joana_sweetness]

@@MegaAlhaqiqa thank you for the encouragement, may God have mercy upon your soul and heart. May God bless you and grant eternal life to you. Please pray for my soul.

[@copticvillage]

Father you have been a great inspiration for me on my journey to orthodoxy. I have recently become a catecumen in ROCOR. I have OCD, and this means i have many obsessive thoughts daily, many of which are sinful and blasphemous. Please pray for me, and thank you for this video, I really needed to hear this as i do give the thoughts more power than they should have.

[@emmap1159]

When the thoughts begin to invade say to Jesus, Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me a sinner. Repeat it over and over. It works every time because you're looking toward Him rather than self. Peace through Christ, my dear.

[@orthodox1717]

I have pure O, so I know EXACTLY what you’re talking about. Like Fr. Spyridon says, do not engage or converse with the demons, it doesn’t work. Push the thought away quickly. It helps, trust me. Say the Jesus prayer. Hang in there. OCD is extremely difficult, but God, the Theotokos, and the Saints are right there with us. Never forget that. The evil one tries to convince us otherwise. Thank God you’re coming to the true faith! ☦️

[@KatAdVictoriam]

I have had a lifelong struggle with OCD and rumination with Intrusive thoughts. Best advice.. The Jesus Prayer. It calms me, focuses my mind and spirit, delivers me from sinful thoughts. I pray it will bring you peace and comfort too.

[@panagenesis2695]

You're not alone. Prayers for you.☦⛪🙏

[@panagenesis2695]

@@nitrobitde2609 What do you call your father? Bill, Steve, John?

[@dvtch]

This video is quite literally a Godsend, thank you Father.

[@vashimy7158]

amen

[@hannahoron9740]

Father Spyridon, I want to thank you for your lessons and encouragements! In the world we live in, this can never be too much! Thank you so much! May you be blessed!

[@chickensrcool67]

Father , I had evil thoughts today, and tossed them aside, asked for forgiveness and then wondered if just having the thought was sinful. GOD is amazing!! I arrived home opened KZbin and Then straight from God your video popped in my feed and had me exclaiming AMEN AMEN AMEN then laughing with tears of JOY!!

[@kalebsmith3942]

Father you have been a huge help in my conversion to Easter Orthodoxy. Thank you so much for your amazing advice☦️🙏

[@joshnyvox1525]

God bless you.

[@erxfav3197]

Matthew 23:9 King James Version 9 And call no man your father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven.

[@joshnyvox1525]

@@erxfav3197 so i can’t call my earthly father a father?

[@christhiele4476]

@@joshnyvox1525 of course you can call your dad “father” it’s just referring to the man who conceived you. The context of this verse is in relation to spiritual teachers. Jesus was warning not to call any teacher “Father” for there is one “Father” who is in Heaven. I’m not sure where the tradition of calling priests “father” in Catholic traditions came from but I’d be curious to hear why they do it when it’s in disobedience of Jesus word.

[@joshnyvox1525]

@@christhiele4476 I was being sarcastic FYI………

[@viktoreisfeld9470]

Thank you for preaching. Your words come in a time of need that you couldn't know.

[@christiane934]

Living in the Divine Will is the safest protection ever. Jesus reveales this Gift for the church and mankind to the servant Luisa Piccarreta. God bless

[@SuperGreatSphinx]

Luisa Piccarreta Servant of God 23 April, 1865 - 4 March, 1947 Also known as the "Little Daughter of the Divine Will" She was a Catholic mystic and author whose spirituality centred on union with the Will of God. For some time, her confessor was Saint Annibale Maria di Francia. Piccarreta is currently under investigation for possible canonization as a Saint of the Catholic Church.

[@hendersonshuntinglodge1207]

Thank you, making the link between the evil taught to our children and the rise indepression etc seems so obvious when it's said, but there aren't many voices who say it these days.

[@Zoverture97]

Really needed to hear this Father thank you 🙏🏾 God bless you and God bless everyone evil will not prevail!! ✝️☦️

[@toxicpanda09]

Mathew 23:9 call no man your father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven.

[@felixbernard6066]

Father bless! By the grace of Christ your words and advise are medicine to the soul. I used to be an active homosexual, such a lifestyle became a passion. It all started with thoughts and suggestions. I was chrismated in January and left that lifestyle behind. But the thoughts and temptations torture me day by day. Lord have mercy! My name is Matthew and I’m from Illinois, please keep me in your prayers.

[@Vibekilla]

God bless you in your walk with Christ.

[@joserodriguez-kn4iu]

God bless you brother keeping you in my prayers.

[@christianmaldonado9071]

🙏

[@mike_is_nice]

I’ve recognized that a part of being a Christian is doing as archangel Michael has done and Jesus has done and rebuke evil spirits in the name of Jesus. That’s one way that spiritual warfare works. God bless and shalom!

[@tolubakare_]

Even while watching this, i got the thought of doing an old habit i did and 30 mins as of now, i felt short yet again… Working on controlling an evil thought is what would you’ll say is the key of how to better than your old version of yourself. Fleeing from that thought and letting God take control with prayer is the only answer I believe is right. This deep hole Im struggling with and anyone else that is, I pray that God will be you with protection of armor ❤

[@DOMINATION456STUDIOS]

I battle these thoughts constant everyday and I pray that they will cease in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit Amen

[@laurencescrenci1460]

I pray God helps you with your struggles, God bless you

[@aubreysnyder338]

I needed this. Thank you

[@febshowers]

Thank you for this wonderful video! It helps me tremendously, as I am tormented regularly with evil thoughts

[@gregkareem9824]

I am too and recently I got baptized I think I know why but evil thoughts piss me off I pray everyday to get it off my head 😢😮‍💨

[@thomasjones7115]

….. be aware of the evil thoughts and simply replace them with good pleasant thoughts … also and most importantly be aware of the present .. your breathing , the sun on your skin , a breeze on your face , people talking , birds chirping etc … being in the present with God …

[@JustinBrasfield-dk8kt]

At about 8:30, he talked about flicking evil thoughts away like flies, at which point he flicks away a fly, which you can hear stops buzzing.

[@johnharris2213]

Please pray for me to receive wisdom from God and a closer walk with the Lord in Jesus mighty name!!!

[@peter7624]

It sounds like great advice, being mindful agains sin and satans attacks of evll thoughts. I will strive to incorporate it into my daily life. It will be so much better if I can. Many thanks Father Spyridon, may God Bless you.

[@LavenderBliss-ll9qo]

Father I'm a Roman Catholic but I love listening to your nuggets of wisdom. Thank you.

[@militarygecko78]

Christ is the way, the truth, and the life Great video.

[@NJP9036]

A good teaching of strength. Thank you Father Spyridon.

[@zladtheimpaler8241]

This has been a struggle that has made me feel dead for many years until recently. I was badly addicted to pornography, starting at age 12, and on top of that struggled with entertaining very violent thoughts for many many years. I had pretty much desensitized myself through the internet and movies to all kinds of wickedness. I got better and indulged less over time but it was still a habit I gave in to fairly regularly. Almost three weeks ago I finally began to attend a Orthodox church about a half hour from me, and the first service I ever attended I felt a peace I haven't felt in ages, probably ever. I've felt closer to God lately than I ever have and have been putting up a fight against temptation like never before, refusing to give in ever since. I've abstained from sins of sexual lust and have felt a peace from hatred/rage lately like I've never had. Beforehand I felt like the Holy Spirit was tugging me elsewhere, now I feel I'm where I belong. God bless the one true apostolic church.

[@A9les]

Amen Father, and to add a cherry on top of it… The love of God, with his love that we can win against hate… The love that God teaches us and show love to our enemies, is the biggest weakness that Satan cannot win against with, love is from God and is from nonetheless than our Lord Jesus Christ

[@123falcocastillo]

What a fresh of breath you are, father. God bless

[@olgapedinski6115]

Thank you Father Spyridon

[@Imperial_Boltgun]

Thank you father. I struggle with dark thoughts. Although I know they do not originate from my heart. I will pray for Christs guidance and mercy and continue to struggle.

[@FRP1144]

Couldn’t have said it any better, thank you father get well soon

[@paulgitaukinuthia3916]

Severe Anxiety struck while listening to this, and I could barely make it to the end, but its message was sweeter than well-brewed coffee at dawn.

[@thinkitoverpodcast]

wow thank you father, i asked god for some help and you and this video popped up for me regarding exactly my problem. thank you sir

[@Snnsnsnsnsnsksm]

Thank you father for spreading your knowledge and thank you lord for leading me here today , your wisdom is amazing father and I’m so grateful for your mercy lord ❤

[@dacunhaeuclides]

Thanks, Father! I'm a Roman Catholic, but your wisdom helped me. God bless!

[@TruthseekerGoldburg]

Thank you sir. I really needed to hear this.

[@tuckersguitarfiasco]

I am a protestant but I absolutely loved this message. Thank you for the encouraging words!

[@144Seal]

Those who follow Christ are Christians. Denomination has no weight, it's time for all Christians to come together.

[@LeviShinah-gy2fl]

​@@144Sealamen

[@miketemple7686]

@@144SealI couldn’t agree more. I’m a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I truly pray that those who recognize Jesus Christ as our Savior can come together and fight back against Satan. 🙏✝️

[@jeanfredperez1631]

@@miketemple7686yeah but joseph smith was a fiend. Get out..

[@matiaspoyry8506]

@@144Seal Orthodoxy is prenominational my friend

[@yeah7598]

a good priest. Truly inspirational.

[@yourlocalgermanstormtroope1679]

Thank you father. i am a budding catholic but i find your videos and your voice so calming. You have given me more deeper thought in spiritual advice and I thank you and our orthodox brothers for helping me on my journey to stay clean.

[@David-tu4dn]

LISTENED A SECOND TIME KNOWING THE FATHER IS CATCHING MY TEARS. PRAISE THE FATHER HE SPOKE TO MY HEART THROUGH YOU. I"LL LISTEN TO THIS DAILY. THANK YOU.

[@Oshianis]

There is no denying the glory and light of God that is present on this Man's face. This man has clearly been enlightened

[@AscendedGrey]

Thank you Father. Peace be upon you.

[@soulfulplaya5508]

Amen Father may God protect you and all who speak God's truth ...Lord Jesus Christ son of the holy father have mercy on my soul a sinner ..God bless world family...

[@_EatShit_]

Your God is weak. Your God is cruel. Your God is Narcissistic. Your God can't stop women and children from being raped. Your God can't stop wars in his name. Your God admits there are other Gods in his 1st Commandment. Your God can't stop hunger. Your God cant stop cancer. Your God can't stop murder. Your God can't stop aborting thousands of babies every day. Your God can't show his face. Your God can't. Or maybe he won't. Or maybe he doesn't know. Regardless of why your God can't, won't or doesn't know, he has done nothing about these things. And since he is so weak, why do you worship him as a God? Your God is not real, and you are weak for believing in a Middle Eastern Myth.

[@cbl336]

Father Spyridon 🙏 Your videos were delivered to me and I'm learning and understanding so much more than I ever imagined at an accelerated pace. I feel a heart-felt connection with your teachings and messages for which I'm deeply grateful. Thank you brother, may God continue to bless you, and may your light shine to all of God's children 🙏 ❤️ ✝️

[@guspapadopoulos]

Father Spyridon l know l thank you constantly, but it is not to riddle your personal pride; it is only to say thank you for putting these videos out there. For they have helped me immensely in keeping me on track.

[@peterm13]

"The first stage is prayer" - yes, prayer is the first key for victory. This is a revelation. This is the secret. Prayer is the key.

[@CopticCommentary-nu6xj]

Hate sin! The big takeaway. Be it a thought, a word, a KZbin recommendation, a connection or anything & cut it at its source.

[@maryagneshaagensen269]

After reading all these comments I feel I understand more deeply why "Jesus wept".

[@davefekete7187]

Yes people don't fool yourself into thinking that hate is always bad but that doesn't mean you have to be a hateful person, Amen.

[@Eleleth833]

Slava Ocu i sinu i Svetome Duhu.

[@user-zz6yp1rl4e]

Our only Father is the Father in heaven.

[@JohnnyWalkerBlack142]

Father you have showed up on my KZbin recommended for months. I kept ignoring it until I recently came to Christ. You are doing God’s work, and the holy spirit must be working through you. Thank you

[@BelieveInJesusChrist.]

Matthew 23:8-9 Woes to Scribes and Pharisees …8 But you are not to be called ‘Rabbi,’ for you have one Teacher, and you are all brothers. 9 And do not call anyone on earth your father, for you have one Father, who is in heaven.

[@Kostas_Dikefalaios]

​@@BelieveInJesusChrist.You wannabe scholar dont even know about St. Paul calling himself father in scripture itself. You are a perfect example of whats wrong with protestanism. You dont know how to properly interpret the scripture and try schooling people online with no authority whatsoever. If you take this passage word by word you wouldnt even be allowed to call your biological father, father, or an actual teacher, teacher. This was a rebuking of the pharisees, not a ban on using these words. I hope you feel ashamed for this stupid comment.

[@daylight44ful]

Thank You, Father Spyridon. 🙏Amen 🙏

[@BelieveInJesusChrist.]

Matthew 23:8-9 Woes to Scribes and Pharisees …8 But you are not to be called ‘Rabbi,’ for you have one Teacher, and you are all brothers. 9 And do not call anyone on earth your father, for you have one Father, who is in heaven.

[@daylight44ful]

@@BelieveInJesusChrist. While our priests are not our biological fathers, they are our spiritual fathers. Just as a father leads his family and protects them from harm, so do our priests guide and defend us, the people God has entrusted to their care. They also provide us with the spiritual nourishment we need to grow in holiness and ultimately reach Heaven: in particular, the nourishment of the Eucharist and the healing power of Confession. 1 Thessalonians 2:11 (NIV): "For you know that we dealt with each of you as a father deals with his own children..." Here, the Apostle Paul again likens his relationship with the Thessalonians to that of a father with his children, underlining the concept of spiritual fatherhood and guidance. These passages provide some scriptural context for the idea of spiritual fatherhood and the use of the term "Father" for clergy in the Catholic and Orthodox traditions. It's important to interpret these verses in light of the broader teachings and practices of the Church and consider the historical and cultural context in which they were written. 1 Corinthians 4:14-15 (NIV): "I am writing this not to shame you but to warn you as my dear children. Even if you had ten thousand guardians in Christ, you do not have many fathers, for in Christ Jesus I became your father through the gospel." In this passage, the Apostle Paul refers to himself as a spiritual father to the Corinthians, emphasizing his role in their spiritual growth and guidance. During their daily prayer and Liturgy of the Hours, they are praying and interceding for us and our intentions, placing our needs and petitions at the feet of the Father, God. Priests are called to sacrifice so much in order to serve us. A man whom God calls to the Roman Catholic priesthood gives up having his own earthly marriage and physical family in order to be fully and wholehearted available to whomever God places on his path. Priests dedicate every day of their lives to serving their flocks sacramentally and practically, and sacrifice biological fatherhood in order to live out God’s gift of spiritual fatherhood.

[@daylight44ful]

@@BelieveInJesusChrist. Here are just a few more Scripture references for you to read...1 Corinthians 4:17 (NIV): "For this reason I have sent to you Timothy, my son whom I love, who is faithful in the Lord. He will remind you of my way of life in Christ Jesus, which agrees with what I teach everywhere in every church." In this passage, Paul refers to Timothy as his "son," highlighting the spiritual relationship and mentoring role he has with Timothy. Philemon 10 (NIV): "I appeal to you for my son Onesimus, who became my son while I was in chains." Here, Paul describes Onesimus as his "son," again indicating the spiritual relationship he has with him. Hebrews 12:9 (NIV): "Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of spirits and live!" This verse draws a parallel between earthly fathers who discipline and guide their children and the divine Father who is the source of all spirits. It reinforces the idea of spiritual leadership and guidance. 1 John 2:13-14 (NIV): "I am writing to you, fathers, because you know him who is from the beginning. I am writing to you, young men, because you have overcome the evil one. I write to you, dear children, because you know the Father." In this passage, John addresses different groups within the church, including "fathers," indicating a spiritual maturity and leadership role among them. It's important to note that while these passages may support the concept of spiritual fatherhood, the use of the term "Father" for priests in the Catholic and Orthodox traditions also stems from the historical development of these traditions, their theology of priesthood, and their understanding of apostolic succession. These scriptural references, along with tradition and theology, collectively contribute to the practice of addressing priests as "Father" in these traditions.

[@squinty144]

We are in the final war we just don’t know it. Keep fighting the darkness.

[@kelvinjames6344]

Thank u from Australia Jesus is the only way

[@nancyincanada5553]

Thank you so very much for these teachings. In addition to these teachings, a book that has been very helpful in my struggle with evil thoughts is, "Our Thoughts Determine Our Lives", The Life and Teachings of Elder Thaddeus of Vitovnica. Lord have mercy.

[@sm3756]

Thank you Father

[@RUForeal-sg3uf]

Father, I once felt victorious over one of my weaknesses, but occasionally I struggle with it again after vivid dreams. I have been repenting for years over the same sins that I once held proudly and I now pray quickly whenever a memory of these events returns, though sometimes not quickly enough. Asleep is the one state where I don't have the ability to control evil thoughts. I know that there is no complete victory and that by declaring victory is foolish thinking with the malevolent forces that we face. The past two days I watched a dream become thought that led to considering pursuing a sin,. In prayer I am recovering from this now. I'm also stepping up my prayers before bed time where I have become lazy. Thank you for this video.

[@garymorgan75]

Thought of of demonic forts go away if you tell Satan to go away, may the grace of Jesus be with you

[@lia1159]

Thank you Father!

[@BelieveInJesusChrist.]

Matthew 23:8-9 Woes to Scribes and Pharisees …8 But you are not to be called ‘Rabbi,’ for you have one Teacher, and you are all brothers. 9 And do not call anyone on earth your father, for you have one Father, who is in heaven.

[@Connor00345]

A very powerful message indeed BROTHER. Hallelujah, in the mighty name of Jesus Christ.

[@millionmilestothesun]

Jesus never beat thought.

[@Connor00345]

@@millionmilestothesun I have no idea what you're talking about.. Thought isn't something that can be beaten but rather honed. Furthermore, if you read the words of Jesus and didn't observe the greatest of thinking minds then you're probably not someone I intend to talk with anymore. All the same. God bless you. Take Care.

[@oppro1955]

jesus, son of god and god father of all please have mercy on me as a sinner

[@David-tu4dn]

WOW VERY POWERFUL THANK YOU. YOU DON"T HAVE NO IDEA HOW BAD I NEEDED TO HERE THAT. TEARS STILL FALLING. BEEN UNDER TERABLE ATTACK. LOVE DAVID.

[@Davemac1116]

Matthew 12:43-45. This is why it’s so important, as Fr. says, to fill your mind with virtuous thoughts; to give thanks to God. We must ensure that we are not ‘unoccupied’ and ‘swept clean’ that the demons may make our final condition (addictions, impure passions) worse than the first.

[@chell6022]

Thank you.

[@reactional99]

i used to direct hate and anger towards some of the sources of evil in this world and i was foolish to. This video and all of your others actually really speak to me very strongly and will be going to the local orthodox church on sunday. many thanks for your videos. I really want to change my ways and I am deeply sorry to all those who i have directed hate to and all those my hate and anger has caused stress harm or any offence in the past. Please forgive me. I would like to to remain clean and peaceful for the rest of my days. Peace and love to everyone,

[@markosorfanidis6953]

God bless u father only love

[@theoneoutofnazareth]

How beautifully did our loving God confirm St. Paisios' words about smacking away evil thoughts like flies. There was a slightly buzzing fly in your video which reappeared as you quoted St. Paisios! Please pray for me a sinner, Justin, and my family. My wife Catherine who is with child (another boy), Theodora, Nicholas, and Jonah. Thank you for your presence on KZbin. Perhaps one day we can come and attend a Liturgy at your parish. May the Lord bless you, Father!

[@TruthWins515]

I love your videos. So refreshing. Thank you.

[@aystfu_7441]

father help me bring me and my family closer to the holy sprit and the father

[@gpwil3847]

Thank you for reaching out to all of us with what you have learned. It’s helpful.

[@MajorFishy]

Father, thank you for these words. I have been struggling for a long time, and have lost sight of who I am. I know God has always been with me and I strive to keep him closer these days.

[@BelieveInJesusChrist.]

Matthew 23:8-9 Woes to Scribes and Pharisees …8 But you are not to be called ‘Rabbi,’ for you have one Teacher, and you are all brothers. 9 And do not call anyone on earth your father, for you have one Father, who is in heaven.

[@deadspace4755]

Σας ευχαριστώ Πατερ για τους λογους σας. Ακόμα και στα αγγλικά, σας καταλαβαίνω. Να θυμόμαστε παντα τον Θεο γιατί θα αναρτήσουμε διαφορετικά, οπως λεει ο Μωυσής στην εξοδο 20.

[@Bobby.truthsayer.1956]

This instructions you have provided here for combating evil thoughts and wicked temptations are perfect and obviously from the Sweet Holy Spirit and the Lords Holy Word. May God Bless you and keep you Dear Brother Father Spyridon.

[@imadboles3431]

Thank you!

[@stop99o]

Father, you do not know how much you have helped me. You have done me unimaginable amounts of good from this simple 10 minutes. You have taught me so much in this video, more than the previous year of my pursuit for Christ. Thank you Father. May God bless you and have Mercy on us.

[@BelieveInJesusChrist.]

Matthew 23:8-9 Woes to Scribes and Pharisees …8 But you are not to be called ‘Rabbi,’ for you have one Teacher, and you are all brothers. 9 And do not call anyone on earth your father, for you have one Father, who is in heaven.

[@stop99o]

@@BelieveInJesusChrist. What do you call your biological father?

[@tommyrutherford400]

The world frightens me but I know like all things it will pass away. He will remain and that gives me hope.

[@vladodobleja748]

Father Spyridon,you have to pay a visit to our National Cathedral in Romania. When finished it will be the largest Orthodox Cathedral in the world!

[@tenajyak]

Complete inversion, indeed!

[@hikedayley9309]

"Even so that if I named those evils this video would be removed"-------How true. We are surrounded by evil demons Jesus help us!

[@thechosenone5924]

I vent to God when I have these thoughts so I don’t let them nest in my heart. Once I’m calm I think clearly and don’t act on them. Daily struggle.

[@sueadauctus3306]

Love Gid, love neighbor. Thank you Father. Love the birds chorus.

[@semmikozod1139]

I've been struggling with thoughts of vengeance because I was abused recently. Please pray for me. My heart desires no forgiveness but I want to do it.

[@kiryu-chan577]

Pray, pray, pray. Also, a thought is just a thought. Just don't act on it and rest in the grace of God.

[@nathanbell6962]

Love your enemy it's the only way. The opposite is hate and a life of death