Victory in Jesus

Philippians 4:13 "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

To those struggling with an addiction (particularly pornography and self-gratification), this verse offers hope - the only hope - for ever living a victorious life. It's not in my strength, in this program, in that accountability partner, through really getting determined; but it's only through Christ!

I believe in being determined - if you're not really putting yourself into it, and you just sit back and expect God to deliver you, then you will fail.

I believe in accountability partners - "Confess your sins to one another and pray for one another so that you may be healed..." (James 5:16 NASB)

I believe in programs - Having a plan and a biblically based program that can walk you through the process and hook you up with other people and resources is of utmost importance. www.settingcaptivesfree.com is one of the most helpful for addictions that I've found. I highly recommend it!

I believe in using your strength - "...Just as you used to offer yourselves as slaves to impurity and to ever-increasing wickedness, so now offer yourselves as slaves to righteousness leading to holiness." (Romans 6:19 TNIV) Put the same amount of time and energy into feasting on God's Word, praying, and righteous living as you used to put into indulging the flesh, gratifying the passions of the body and mind in your addiction.

All of these things are necessary strategies and tools to use. Anyone serious about overcoming an addiction and being set free from their sins will want to avail themselves to every possible resource. However, there is no substitute for Christ. Apart from him, all attempts at victory will miserably fail! Don't put the cart in front of the horse! Let Christ be your strength in overcoming habitual sins. "Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed." (John 8:36 NKJV)

Pray this prayer:
Father, I realize that no one forces me to engage in these habitual sins. It is a choice that I make when presented with something that attracts me. I have conditioned myself to yield to this temptation through repeatedly yielding in the past. I know that you have the power and the resources to set me free. Please strengthen my will and help me to stop this wrong behavior. You promise that through your Son, Jesus Christ, I can do all things, including overcome this habitual sin. I purpose to confess and forsake this sin and do whatever it takes with Your help to gain and maintain ongoing victory over sin for Your glory! Amen.