The Mended Rib: A 27-Day Devotional for Men Battling Lust and InfidelitySample

The Root of Lust

Lust is often associated with sexual desire, but it doesn’t always originate from sexual encounters. Many times, lust is a symptom of deeper emotional wounds or unmet needs that stem from past experiences. For example, if you grew up in a home filled with conflict, strife, or emotional instability, it could leave you feeling insecure, anxious, or unworthy of love. As you enter adulthood, these feelings can drive you to seek validation, comfort, or control through lust or unhealthy relationships.

Similarly, the pain of losing a parent or being abandoned by one can leave a deep emotional void. When a parent leaves or dies, you may feel rejected, unworthy, or emotionally disconnected. This can lead to a craving for attention, intimacy, or connection—things that were lacking during your formative years. Lust becomes a way to fill this void, not just for physical pleasure but as an attempt to meet deeper emotional needs.

These experiences don’t directly cause lust, but they create vulnerabilities in your heart that make it easier for lust to take hold. Struggles with lust are often rooted in emotional pain or unresolved trauma from your past. Healing doesn’t just come from trying to stop lustful behaviors; it comes from addressing the deep emotional wounds that may be driving them.

Understanding where your desires come from is crucial. Lust is not just a battle of self-control; it’s a symptom of a deeper need for healing, security, and love—things that only God can truly provide.

Challenge

Take some time today to reflect on your past experiences. Are there areas of emotional pain, childhood trauma, or family dysfunction that could be driving your struggles with lust? Write down your thoughts in a journal and bring them to God in prayer, asking Him to heal those deep-rooted wounds.

Prayer

Lord, help me to understand the deeper roots of my struggles with lust. Show me where past wounds, unmet needs, or emotional pain may be influencing my behavior. Heal those broken places in me and teach me to seek my security and fulfillment in You alone. Amen.