We understand that you're struggling with sexual sin and we're here to help, pray, and provide biblical guidance. Firstly, it's crucial to remember that God's standard for sexual purity is clear: "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)
Masturbation, along with the lustful thoughts that accompany it, is a form of sexual immorality. It's important to flee from it, not manage it. If it is not addressed and dealt with biblically it will hinder your relationship with God. This is serious. Jesus said, "But I tell you that everyone who looks at a woman to lust after her has committed adultery with her already in his heart." (Matthew 5:28 WEB)
Your pattern of hiding after sinning indicates that you're experiencing guilt and shame. While these feelings are common after committing sin, you must not let them control you to the point where you are hiding yourself for seven days. God wants you to turn from your sin. The good news is that if you confess your sins, God is faithful and righteous to forgive you and cleanse you from all unrightheousness. (1 John 1:9 WEB) and you can have peace with God.
In addition to prayer, we advise you to practice the following biblical principles:
1. **Repentance**: True repentance involves turning away from your sin. Make a conscious decision to turn from sexual immorality.
2. **Prayer and Fasting**: These are powerful spiritual disciplines that can help you gain victory over sin. (Mark 9:29 WEB)
3. **Accountability**: Share your struggle with a mature Christian who can pray with you, encourage you, and hold you accountable. (James 5:16 WEB)
4. **Fill your mind with God's Word**: Memorize and meditate on scriptures that promote purity and holiness, as well as put on the mind of Christ. (Philippians 4:8 WEB, Romans 12:2 WEB, Philippians 2:5 WEB)
5. **Avoid triggers**: Identify and avoid situations, environments, or media that trigger lustful thoughts for you. (Romans 13:14 WEB)
Let's pray together:
Dear Heavenly Father,
We come before you, lifting up this dear soul who is struggling with sexual sin. Lord, we know that your heart is filled with love and compassion, and that you desire for this person to live in purity and holiness. We confess this sin to you and ask for your forgiveness. We pray that you will pour out your grace and mercy, and strengthen this person to resist lustful thoughts and flee from sexual immorality.
Guide them towards accountability and help them to avoid the triggers that lead to this sin. Fill their mind with your Word and the mind of Christ, and give them the courage to turn from their sin and live a life that honors you.
We also pray for their social anxiety, that you would heal them and give them peace. Help them not to hide in shame, but to walk in the light of your love and forgiveness.
In Jesus Christ's name we pray this.
Finally, remember that it is only through faith in Jesus Christ that we can have peace with God. "Therefore, being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ;" (Romans 5:1 WEB)