Stormproof Men IIIনমুনা

Predicting Weather Patterns

Let's think about when we expect certain weather patterns to strike. I now live in Texas. I never worry about ice storms in July, but I do look for ice or snow in January or February. The risk of tornadoes in December is low, but the risk increases significantly in the spring when warm, moist air collides with colder air, producing severe thunderstorms.

Knowing when the storms are coming helps us to be alert and to be better prepared for them. Many sexual temptations are like these weather systems in that they, too, are “seasonal.” If I scrutinize my life, I can identify times and circumstances when temptations are most likely to strike. Let’s look at this hypothetical example:

I am married, but my marriage relationship is less than ideal. Our sex life frustrates me. We don't make love as often as I like, and many times the sex does not seem satisfying. My wife fell asleep, and I am alone, awake, and wanting sex. So I slipped out of the bedroom, went to my office, closed the door, and accessed an adult website. I spent an hour indulging in porn, and I ended the night by masturbating. I know it’s not right, but I also know sex with my wife is out of the question for tonight. I rationalize to myself that I haven’t hurt anyone. In this case, I was most susceptible when my wife and I were struggling in our relationship. 

Ask yourself: Under what circumstances (times, places, and situations) am I most vulnerable? What emotions am I feeling? When is the storm at its worst? 

The truth is that most sexual temptations do not blindside us, but because we’ve never honestly thought about them, we live as if we’re helpless and hopeless in the battle. Recognizing patterns in our life is a key. We can then be more proactive in dealing with the circumstances when we face them, or in avoiding them in the first place. 

We meet “external” sexual temptation almost regularly in our world. Some of those “external” temptations appeal to our flesh, and the problem then becomes an “internal” temptation. That puts us in the midst of the storm. We may (incorrectly) conclude the situation is hopeless, and, as “mere men” we can’t possibly help but yield to temptation. As "mere men," that is true, with rare exception. But, we don't battle for purity as "mere men." Recall His promises: God is faithful and with the temptation will provide a way of escape. We can experience purity. God has provided what we need to live as He commands. 

We can be Stormproof Men. 

For more Stormproof Men resources—podcasts with Roger Fankhauser, a downloadable summary, information on the book, and others—visit http://www.gsot.edu/stormproof/. The Grace Center for Spiritual Development at Grace School of Theology provides non-degree studies, live online bible study opportunities, and resources like this devotional.