A relapse into sinful addictions is inevitable…the question is are you prepared?
Many people across the globe witnessed in shock and horror as the country of Haiti was devastated by a 7.0 magnitude earthquake in 2010. After the initial horror was over, however, there were over 50 “aftershocks” which measured 4.5 magnitude or above.
Pornography (or any sin for that matter) has a similar effect on those who try and give it up. The chemical addiction is so strong that, with the exception of a few rare cases, former sultans of smut are bound to relapse into viewing something they no longer wish to see, whether in their own head or on the computer screen.
So the real question is not “if” but “when”. When a relapse occurs what should one do? Should it just be accepted as an inescapable thorn in the side?
In the words of Ford Prefect …Don’t Panic. Your immediate gut reaction will be guilt and shame and utter failure, that’s normal. But you cannot dwell on such feelings because they will only lead to depression which will in turn pull you away from God, family and friends.
And so begins the destructive cycle; you seek out acceptance and temporal joy in pornography which causes the aforementioned feelings; however, you need not sit down and sulk.
Instead, you need to come up with a plan of action to ensure that these aftershocks, just like with earthquakes, eventually subside. So how does one do it?
Well, for each person it will be different depending upon a multitude of factors. The length of the addiction and a predisposition to addictive style behaviors are two major factors that will play into what is necessary to abstain from this temptation but here are a few tips:
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Plan your time: The old saying is true “Idle hands are the devil’s workshop”. If you previously struggled with porn than there is no doubt your mind will wander and seek out those images to replay over and over again. A well planned out schedule and task list will help avoid such empty moments.
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Internet=Purpose: For many of us the internet is an essential part of our day to day lives. If you go on the internet, go on there with a purpose. Don’t surf aimlessly. Don’t get on when you are tired or feeling weak. If you feel tempted, follow the advice of Timothy and “flee” ie…shut down the computer and start again later.
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Filters and Accountability: For many pornography is a dirty little secret that no one wants to talk about. Having an accountability partner will not only help in this area but in all areas of life. A simple free piece of software called X3 Watch can help you out. It will send a list of questionable websites to your chosen accountability partner. Another line of defense is a filter. It can be something as simple as ProCon. Sure, it’s easy to disable but it does help to remind you what you are about to do…it gives you one extra moment to flee.
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Armor: The Bible says in Ephesians we are to put on the whole armor of God because we are in a battle. Make it a regular habit to pray and read God’s Word early in the morning so that you are prepared for the rest of the day.
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Resources:
Back when I did my series on pornography I listed some resources that I believe are quite helpful. You should check them out.
If the above isn’t working for you then perhaps it is time you considered professional Christian counseling. There are literally millions of people who suffer from some sort of sexual addiction and need help. You are not alone and you are not abnormal.
