While pornography can excite us for a time, it never lasts—it only ever leaves us feeling empty and unsatisfied. In contrast, God in Christ offers eternal joy, lasting satisfaction, and contentment that transcends our circumstances. No matter what stage of the journey you’re at in finding freedom from porn, look to Jesus. Renew your commitment to the Lord.
Christian men struggle with pornography at alarmingly high rates and Christian women aren’t immune to this struggle either. If you’re a Christian of either sex ensnared in pornography, it can be a lonely place to be. But don’t despair. There’s hope in Christ.
You can find multiple resources to help with this fight, but as a place to start, here are five practical ways to respond.
1. Don’t Rationalize
Years ago, I heard of a pastor caught up in pornography. When confronted by other church leaders, he replied, “Most guys struggle with it.” In other words, “It’s not that big of a deal.”
Sadly, his reaction is all too common.
In your heart, you know viewing porn is a big deal. First and foremost, it’s sin. Not only are you sinning against a holy God, but if you’re married, you’re sinning against your spouse (Matt. 5:27–28). Tim Challies has argued that when you look at porn, you commit at least eight sins.
There are plenty of ways one might justify it: At least I’m not committing adultery. Or: There’s worse stuff I could be viewing. But you’re called to be a vessel of purity and righteousness unto God. And his Word is clear:
Sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints. Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving. For you may be sure of this, that everyone who is sexually immoral or impure, or who is covetous (that is, an idolater), has no inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. (Eph. 5:3–5)
The first step to forgiveness and recovery is to stop rationalizing your behavior. Nobody addicted to porn will find victory by minimizing it. Healing begins with acknowledging your sin before God (Ps. 32:5). Also, confess to particular people who should know—your spouse, a church leader, or a trusted friend (James 5:16).
Don’t try to hide your sin.
2. Repent
Having confessed your sin, it’s time to repent. Think of repentance as doing a 180 in how you think and live (Acts 26:20). You’re acknowledging you were wrong and God was right. You’re confessing your need to change.
Repentance is characterized by godly sorrow and genuine grief.