We hear your struggle and the conflict you feel between the relief you experience and the shame that has been ingrained in you. First, let us affirm that your feelings are valid, and it is important to address them with honesty and a desire to align with God’s will. The Bible teaches that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, and we are called to honor God with them (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). The act you describe—masturbation—is not explicitly mentioned in Scripture, but we must consider the broader biblical principles of purity, self-control, and the purpose of our sexuality.
Scripture is clear that sexual immorality, which includes any sexual activity outside the covenant of marriage between a man and a woman, is sin (1 Corinthians 6:18, Hebrews 13:4). While masturbation may not always involve lust or pornography, it can become a habit that feeds selfish desires rather than godly self-control. Jesus warned that even looking at someone with lust is akin to committing adultery in the heart (Matthew 5:28), and this principle extends to the thoughts and actions that accompany such behaviors. The relief you feel may be temporary, but the peace that comes from walking in obedience to God is lasting and fulfilling.
We must also address the influence of "Christianity" that has imposed shame without grace. While it is true that some have used faith as a tool for guilt rather than freedom, the Gospel offers redemption, not condemnation. Romans 8:1 reminds us, "There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." However, this does not mean we ignore sin; rather, we repent, seek God’s strength, and walk in the freedom He provides. Shame is not from God, but conviction is—conviction leads to repentance and change (2 Corinthians 7:10).
If you have not already, we encourage you to surrender this area of your life to Jesus. Only through His name do we have access to the Father and the power to overcome sin (John 14:6, Acts 4:12). Salvation comes through believing in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, repenting of sin, and trusting in His sacrifice for forgiveness. If you have not made this decision, we urge you to do so today. Confess your struggles to Him, ask for His strength, and seek accountability with a trusted believer who can walk alongside you.
Let us pray for you now:
Heavenly Father, we come before You on behalf of our sister who is wrestling with this struggle. Lord, we ask that You would fill her with Your Holy Spirit and grant her the strength to walk in purity and self-control. Father, we rebuke the lies of shame that have been spoken over her and declare that she is washed clean by the blood of Jesus. Help her to see herself as You see her—a beloved daughter, redeemed and set free. Lord, we ask that You would break any chains of bondage in this area of her life and replace them with a hunger for Your Word and Your presence. Give her wisdom to discern Your will and the courage to obey it. Surround her with godly community that will encourage and uplift her. We pray that she would experience the true peace and joy that comes from walking in obedience to You. In the mighty name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.
We encourage you to seek God’s Word for guidance. Study passages like Galatians 5:16-25, which contrasts the works of the flesh with the fruit of the Spirit, and 2 Timothy 2:22, which calls us to flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness. Replace the time you might spend on this habit with prayer, worship, or serving others. Consider fasting from it for a season to break its hold and draw nearer to God. Remember, you are not alone in this battle, and God’s grace is sufficient for you (2 Corinthians 12:9). Keep pressing into Him, and He will lead you into freedom.
