Overcome Porn: The 40 Day Challenge Sample

Day 5: Why your resolutions always fail (and how to succeed)

About 45% of Americans make New Year’s resolutions, but 88% end in failure. When you’re resolved to stop something, especially something as pleasurable as watching porn, the deck is stacked against you. So how do you set a resolution that sticks?

1. Start with small, measurable goals

Break your overall goals into a series of steps, focusing on sub-goals that are concrete, measurable, and time-based. The Bible is replete with such wisdom. Jesus says those who finish well as disciples are those who anticipate the measurable steps along the way (Luke 14:28-30).

2. Focus on rewards

The top 10% who achieve their resolutions are those who regularly remind themselves about the benefits. Create a checklist of how life will be better once you break free… including the rewards (Hebrews 11:24-26).

3. Establish tangible reminders

Those who live up to their resolutions tangibly map out their progress, writing down their smaller goals and the benefits they desire. Do what works for you! Stick Post-It® notes everywhere. Wear a ring or bracelet. Set alerts in your phone or on your calendar. This is also Scripturally based (Joshua 4, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26).

4. Be accountable for your goals

Those who achieved their resolutions told their friends and family about their goals. This increased the fear of failure and created a network of support. The same is true in cases of porn addiction. A study from Fuller Theological Seminary found that those who combined both Christian counseling and using Covenant Eyes Internet Accountability on their devices experienced a 66% drop in relapses, and many participants said they never relapsed.

5. Have the right attitude about slips

In our efforts to flee from sin and temptation, people often have a lot of resolve at the beginning, but that resolve tends to dwindle. This is why we need a long-term strategy for change (Luke 14:28-33, Proverbs 24:27).

We must remember this truth: When you are at your best, plan for your worst. When your resolve to quit porn is high, it is important to remember a day will come when your resolve will not be as high, and we need to have a plan in place that carries us through those days.

Action Step

Generate a plan to integrate these five steps in your life and stay motivated amidst all of life’s ups and downs.

Reflection

What is one memorable take-away you learned from today’s devotional?