Biblical steps in overcoming porn addiction

Technology turned porn addiction pandemic
Millions suffer from internet porn addiction. Around 33% of males aged between 16-34 years old are addicted to it and teenagers are most vulnerable. Christians are not exempted, but there is hope because God’s grace is sufficient. Here are practical and Biblical steps that can help you overcome.

1. Admit it’s a problem

Until we acknowledge that there is a “sin problem,” we will not know the cure. Acceptance does not mean defeat, it’s simply acknowledging the problem. Acceptance becomes a step in overcoming an addiction if you acknowledge that you need help. (Psalm 32:5)

→ I gave up being gay but did not become straight.

Remember: Admitting you need help is a step ahead.

→ Demonic nature of sexual sins

2. Change of mind

Repentance comes from the word “metanoia” which means “a change of mind, heart, and attitude towards sin.” It’s a process of spiritual conversion that happens each day because temptation is constant (James 1:14). Prove by the way you live that you have repented and turn to God. (Matthew 3:8)

Remember: Hate sin.

→ Dear God: Bakit hindi mo sinasagot prayers ko?

3. Quiet time

God gave us His Word to equip us and be overcomers (2 Timothy 3:16-17). Success comes when we are fed God’s word daily for we do not live by bread alone (Joshua 1:8, Matthew 4:4). God’s word can penetrate hearts to root out the deepest sins (Hebrews 4:12). Set a specific time each day for prayer or fasting, and reading God’s words.

Remember: Hunger for God’s words starves sin.

→ How to pray like Jesus and get answers.

4. Consider spiritual warfare

The Bible tells us that overcoming sin is through the Holy Spirit. We must walk in the Spirit and yield to His control (Galatians 5:16-25) and run away from sin, not chase it. If something entices you, close your eyes and ask the Holy Spirit to change your heart and desire. If your sexual struggle is consuming your daily life, spiritual warfare is needed. You must fast and pray for this, declare your victory in Christ and command foul spirits leave.

Remember: There is power in the name of Jesus!

→ Is spiritual warfare a Biblical practice?

5. Accountability

Bearing the burden of sin alone may sink you deeper into it. Ask God to send a brother or sister in Christ to be with you as you overcome. Being open to someone about your sexual struggles enables others to encourage and pray for you (1 Thessalonians 5:11; Proverbs 27:17). Praying as a group is powerful.

Remember: Ask others to pray for you.

→ Example of Accountability Questions from the Bible.

6. Remove triggers

Joseph, son of Jacob who became a powerful man in Eygpt was tempted by the Queen. He knew he couldn’t resist her and the only way for him to not sin is by physically running away. If you’re heavy on internet porn, remove from your room computers, tablets, and smartphones that allow you to watch porn. If it’s going to places that may arouse your senses, stay out. Avoid friends that are worldly and stick with those who are godly. (2 Timothy 2:22-24; Proverbs 13:20; 1 Corinthians 15:33)

Dedicate your room
King Hezekiah wanted to do what was right in the eyes of the Lord. He ordered the temple to be consecrated and everything detestable removed (2 Chronicles 29:5). If you are in Christ, your body is His temple and pornography has no place. Likewise, magazines and sinful objects in your house belong to the garbage. Dedicate your dwelling place to God by decorating it with scriptures and playing Christian music.

Remember: Run from temptation.

→ How Jackie Hill Perry’s same-sex attraction ended.

7. Focus on Jesus, not on the sin

Being obsessed with overcoming sin is also wrong. If we are consumed by desperation, it is possible that you are depending on yourself, not on God. Instead, focus on Jesus, not on sin itself or failures. Your sins were nailed to the cross and you are free. Ask Jesus to give you a pure heart (Philippians 4:13; 2 Timothy 1:7). Remember, two steps forward and one step backward is still progress.

Remember: Look to the cross of Christ!

→ I love Jesus but can’t help to stop sinning.

Been there, than that?
If you think you’ve done all these in the past, yet remain defeated, go back to repentance and consider carefully if you truly have changed your mind, heart, and attitude towards sin. A Spiritual Deliverance session is something you can consider. Only at the cross of Christ can you truly overcome. “Resist temptation and the devil will flee” (James 4).

→ Seven examples of Jesus we should imitate.