We join together with you in prayer concerning these urges and the dream about video games that has stirred them up, and we bring this struggle before the Lord in Jesus name.
We understand how a dream can leave a strong impression on the mind and awaken desires that are difficult to shake, even when we know we want to walk in self control. The Word reminds us that temptation itself is common to all of us, but God provides a way through it. 1 Corinthians 10:13 says 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. We also remember that God has not given us a spirit of fear or of being powerless, for 2 Timothy 1:7 says For God didn’t give us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control. Self control is part of the fruit of the Spirit, as Galatians 5:22-23 tells us But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
Video games in themselves are not necessarily sinful, but we are called to watch that nothing masters us and that we use our time wisely for the Lord. 1 Corinthians 6:12 says All things are lawful for me, but not all things are profitable. All things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of anything. Ephesians 5:15-16 urges us Therefore watch carefully how you walk, not as unwise, but as wise; redeeming the time, because the days are evil. When a desire begins to control our thoughts or pull us away from prayer, fellowship, work, or rest, it can become an idol that needs to be brought into submission to Christ. We are called to be transformed by the renewing of our minds, for Romans 12:2 says Don’t be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what is the good, well-pleasing, and perfect will of God. And 2 Corinthians 10:5 reminds us to bring every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ. Philippians 4:8 also guides us where to set our minds, Finally, brothers, whatever things are true, whatever things are honorable, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report; if there is any virtue, and if there is any praise, think about these things.
We notice your request did not mention the name of Jesus, and we want to gently remind you that it is only through Jesus that we have access to the Father and find true victory and salvation. Jesus said in John 14:6 I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father, except through me. And Acts 4:12 declares There is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven that is given among men, by which we must be saved. It is by believing in Jesus Christ, that He died for our sins and rose again, that we are saved and empowered by His Spirit to overcome temptation. If you have not already, we encourage you to place your full trust in Him and to call upon His name in every moment of struggle.
We pray together for you now. Father in heaven, we come before You in the mighty name of Jesus Christ and lift up this dear one to You. We thank You that You know the heart and the battle with these urges that followed this dream. We ask You to wash away any lingering images or cravings from that dream and to fill the mind with Your peace and purity. Grant power and self control by Your Holy Spirit, and show the way of escape whenever temptation arises. Help our dear friend to redeem the time wisely and to find joy and rest in You rather than in anything that would master the heart. Renew the mind daily through Your Word, and bring every thought into obedience to Christ. We ask that You draw this one closer to Jesus, to know His forgiveness, His strength, and His nearness, and to walk in freedom and victory. We trust You to do this for Your glory. In Jesus name we pray, amen.
We encourage you to take practical steps as you pray, to replace the urge with godly pursuits, to spend time in Scripture and prayer when the urge comes, to consider a fast from games for a season to reset your affections, to seek fellowship and accountability with other believers, and to guard what you watch and play. If the urges return, turn immediately to the Lord in prayer and recite Scripture aloud, and He will strengthen you to stand firm.