Are the bad thoughts for which I am punished with cautionary Quranic verses the whisperings of the self? And how can I ignore them if they are a punishment?

There is no certainty whether evil thoughts come from the self or Satan. They can be overcome by seeking Allah's help, supplicating, and seeking refuge from the accursed Satan. One should also divert their mind from them by ceasing to dwell on them, busying oneself with the remembrance of Allah, and performing righteous deeds. Furthermore, one should make good use of time and channel energy into beneficial activities, such as seeking knowledge, working, or serving the community.