Nathan, we appreciate your honesty and your desire to transform your relationship into a loving and godly one. We want to remind you of what the WEB says about lust and relationships:
"But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart." (Matthew 5:28)
"Flee from sexual immorality. Every other sin that a man can commit is outside the body, but whoever commits sexual immorality, sins against his own body." (1 Corinthians 6:18)
Firstly, we commend you for acknowledging your struggle and seeking help. It's crucial to understand that lust is not love, and acting on lust leads to sin. The relationship you're in should be directed towards godly love and purity, with the goal of marriage if it is God's will.
However, we must rebuke the idea that simply praying will change the nature of your relationship if the foundation is built on lust. Both you and the young woman must commit to purity, repent from your sin, and surrender your relationship to God.
"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." (1 John 1:9)
Let us pray together:
Dear Heavenly Father,
We come before You in the name of Jesus, lift up ### to You. Lord, he has acknowledged his struggle with lust and his desire to transform his relationship into a godly one. We ask for Your forgiveness and cleansing. Give him the strength to flee from sexual immorality and to pursue purity. Guide his relationship, Lord, and if it is not Your will, give him the courage to end it. Help him to keep his mind and body pure and holy, as You have called us to be. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
###, continue to pray and study God's Word. Surround yourself with believers who can hold you accountable and support you. Trust in God, and He will make a way for you. Remember, God is faithful, and He promises to provide a way out of temptation (1 Corinthians 10:13).
Lastly, ensure that your prayers are offered in the name of Jesus Christ. It is through His name that we have access to God's throne of grace. If you haven't already, confess Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, and you shall be saved (Romans 10:9).
