Stronger Than PornSample

Steps to Overcome Porn

Fortunately, Jesus offers more guidance than just “saving sex for marriage” because he understands our difficulties and how desperately we need explanation and direction. Jesus raised the issue of sexual morality to a new level by saying, “You have heard that the elders were taught, ‘Thou shalt not commit adultery,’ however, I assert that anyone who gazes at a lady out of lust for her has already engaged in extramarital affairs with her in his heart” (Matthew 5:27-28 ).

• Understand that holiness is grace and depends on God.

Most believers aspire to be saints, and holiness is accepting God to change instead of trying to be great. You must not be ashamed of your misery. Holiness implies discovering that God is greater than your sin and misery. It cannot be that with sin, you say, “Well, I don’t pray anymore, I won’t be a catechist anymore, I’m not good enough!” No, because God is powerful and looks for the wounded and sinners. Therefore, without being discouraged, you must trust in God, confession, and prayer.

• Do not focus on leaving sin but on improving your whole life.

The fight against pornography implies a total life change to gain balance and freedom. That includes playing sports, eating healthy, and sleeping eight hours. You also must reinforce having friends and going out with them in person. Fill your life with light and service to others.

• Prepare for crises and temptations: prepare things to do in temptation.

You need to have a list of alternatives ready for when you have a temptation: call a friend and talk, have a Rubik’s cube to distract yourself, go for a walk, cook, and take up your time. Pray. Learn something new. Better to avoid being alone in your room, even if you are reading. It’s not enough of a distraction; you’re still alone and vulnerable. It’s better to go out, do things, and walk around.

• If you relapse, trust in God and continue in the fight without shame.

If you fall, you can go to God without shame. Talk to whoever helps or accompanies you without getting discouraged. Don’t be ashamed of your misery and throw yourself into the arms of God, that He is great and good. In Isaiah 53:5 they say: “By his wounds, we are healed. Trust in Him.”