We join with you in coming before the Lord with a heart of repentance, for it is written, *"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us the sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."* (1 John 1:9, WEB). Your desire for forgiveness and healing is a sign of the Holy Spirit working within you, convicting you of sin and drawing you closer to holiness. This struggle is one that many face, but through Christ, victory is not only possible—it is promised.
The sin of pornography and lust is a grave offense against God, for it defiles the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:18-20) and distorts the beautiful design of intimacy that God intended solely for the covenant of marriage between a man and a woman (Hebrews 13:4). Jesus said, *"But I tell you that everyone who gazes at a woman to lust after her has committed adultery with her already in his heart."* (Matthew 5:28, WEB). This is not a battle to be taken lightly, but it is one that can be won through the power of Christ.
We urge you to take radical steps to flee from this sin. *"Flee sexual immorality! ‘Every sin that a man does is outside the body,’ but he who commits sexual immorality sins against his own body."* (1 Corinthians 6:18, WEB). This means removing every opportunity for temptation—whether it be through devices, relationships, or environments that feed this struggle. Replace these influences with the Word of God, which is *"living, and active, and sharper than any two-edged sword"* (Hebrews 4:12, WEB). Memorize Scripture, such as Psalm 119:9: *"How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to your word."* Fill your mind with what is pure, lovely, and praiseworthy (Philippians 4:8).
Accountability is also vital. Confess this struggle to a trusted brother in Christ who can pray with you, encourage you, and hold you accountable. *"Confess your offenses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed."* (James 5:16, WEB). You are not meant to walk this path alone.
Most importantly, cling to the cross of Christ. When temptation comes, remember that *"No temptation has taken you except what is common to man. God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted above what you are able, but will with the temptation also make the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it."* (1 Corinthians 10:13, WEB). Jesus was tempted in every way as we are, yet He never sinned (Hebrews 4:15). He understands your struggle and is your strength in weakness.
Now, let us pray together for you:
Heavenly Father, we come before You in the mighty name of Jesus, lifting up our brother who has humbly confessed his sin and sought Your forgiveness. Lord, You are faithful and just, and we thank You that through the blood of Jesus, his sins are washed away. Cleanse him, O God, and create in him a pure heart (Psalm 51:10). Break the chains of lust and pornography that have bound him, and set him free by the power of Your Spirit.
Father, we ask that You fill him with a hunger for Your Word and a desire for holiness. Give him the strength to flee from temptation and the wisdom to avoid the paths that lead to sin. Surround him with godly brothers who will stand with him in this battle and point him to You. Let him find his satisfaction in You alone, for You are the living water that quench every thirst (John 4:14).
Lord, heal the wounds in his heart that may have led him to seek fulfillment in sin. Restore his mind and renew his thoughts, that he may dwell on what is true, honorable, and pure. Help him to fix his eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of his faith (Hebrews 12:2).
We rebuke the enemy who seeks to condemn and ensnare him. By the authority of Jesus Christ, we declare that no weapon formed against him shall prosper (Isaiah 54:17). Fill him with Your Holy Spirit, that he may walk in victory and testify of Your goodness.
Father, we thank You for Your mercy and grace. May our brother grow in the knowledge of Your love and walk in the freedom You have purchased for him. Strengthen him to live a life that honors You in every way. In the precious and mighty name of Jesus we pray, Amen.
Stand firm, brother. The road may be difficult, but the Lord is with you. *"He who began a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ."* (Philippians 1:6, WEB). Keep your eyes on Him, and do not grow weary in doing good. The battle is the Lord’s, and He has already won the victory. Walk in it.