Porn Free With John BevereSample

Break the Power of Shame

Today I want to address one of the most insidious tactics of the enemy: shame. The enemy speaks out of both sides of his mouth. He tempts you to go down a dark road, promising that it will bring fulfillment, joy, and pleasure. Then, once you give into the temptation, he beats you up over it and condemns you. If you listen to the enemy’s voice, it will wreak all kinds of havoc in your life.

It’s normal and healthy for a believer to feel remorse and sorrow that they have grieved God’s heart, hurt others, and settled for less than God’s best when they sin. Call your actions what they are—shameful, sinful, wrong. And then repent—stop doing those things that grieve God’s heart. But don’t listen to shame’s condemning voice. Let God define you, not your struggle.

Paul, inspired by the Holy Spirit, boldly declared, “There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit” (Romans 8:1 NKJV).

If you are in Christ, it’s so important you realize He does not condemn you. There is nothing you could do to make Him love you any less. He is for you, not against you. He is your advocate.

That’s why the writer of Hebrews gives us this encouragement: “Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:16 NKJV).

If you fall, don’t let shame keep you down. Get up and run into the arms of your Heavenly Father. In His embrace, you’ll find that you are washed, cleansed, and holy. This amazing revelation will not lead you back into sin; rather, it will spur you on toward righteousness.

Remember, it’s the kindness of God that leads us to repentance. Let His love wash over your heart, live in wonder of everything He’s done for you and has given to you in Christ, and step into the freedom He purchased for you. 

I hope you’ve found this five-day devotional helpful! If you want to go into even more depth on how to win the battle against porn, check out the Porn Free course, which gives you an extensive guide to both breaking free and staying free.