We live in a beautiful world that is filled with darkness. My heart is broken by the atrocities that take place in our cities and nations. Children being used for the pleasure of men, girls being intoxicated or drugged to perform hideous acts. Pornography has become more than women and men choosing to act out their sexuality in magazines and on screens. It has become an addiction for many and abuse for others. Many topics can arise from Pornography. Its effect on the brain, the number of individuals that are addicted, How it can destroy marriages. It is like a disease, an epidemic that is spreading throughout our society. Many teenagers and children as young as ten have been exposed to its luring lustful attraction. It is easily assessable, unlike the olden days when store purchases were the standard way to acquire pornographic material. Individuals are now just one click away from viewing real life explicit content on their computer or smartphones in the comfort of their homes and offices. It has become a craving for many, has destroyed marriages, and give young men a skewed view of what a relationship should look like between a man and a woman. Research has shown that pornography creates the same reactions in the brain as an addiction to drugs or alcohol. –Seasons in Malibu , and according to the Conquer Series, 68% of Christian men view Pornography regularly. Pornography is not just an epidemic in the secular world, but in the Christian realm as well.
A mind for Christ not Pornography
God’s leading is essential for our lives and our businesses, and if we choose to indulge in sexual sins, how can we clearly hear the voice of God. We, as men and women of God, should desire to have a pure mind so we can obey God’s command with every endeavor. God wants us to have a pure heart. A clean heart. A steadfast heart.
David cried out for this after his encounter with Bathsheba after Nathan came to warn him of his sin. In Psalm 51, David cried out to God, “Create in me a clean heart O’ God and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” He had committed adultery and murdered a man to cover up his sin. You might wonder what does this all have to do with Pornography. In Matthew 5:27-28, it says, “but I tell you that everyone who gazes at a woman to lust after her has committed adultery with her already in his heart.” Pornography does not only have you looking at a woman or man with lustful desires but much more. It can plague our mind with impure thoughts and desires, which could lead to wrongful actions; It can be a time bomb just waiting to explode. This sexual sin can lead to many consequences. “The person who thinks he can live and continue to expose himself to the toxic fumes of lustful thinking, pornography, and infidelity and not be affected is sorely deceived and doesn’t realize that this inconspicuous killer is already at work, deep within his soul.” Jeff Colon. Will individuals hold on to the desire of their flesh to lose intimacy with their Creator, the beauty of their marriage and even the favor over their businesses. Will they compromise their holiness for human desire. I hope not, because this can keep them from being useful for the kingdom of God.
Invest in the Kingdom of God and people
God knows our struggles and has made a way out. “No temptation has overtaken you, except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.” (1 Corinthians 10:13) “For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.” (John 3:17) This is excellent news for those who want to escape the snares of Satan, the bondage of sinful desires. There is a way out of the darkness, hold on to his faithfulness. He will finish the work he has begun in you. (Philippians 1:6)
Pornography and its other vices
Human sex trafficking can be connected with Pornography. Videos, pictures, and the like are sometimes created from the exploitation of children, young men, women, and even adults. If any of our resources are going toward the degradation of individual’s lives, how can we think God is pleased with our actions. If the website Strange but true is correct that $3000 is spent on pornography every second and we know 68% of churchmen are watching Porn, thousands, maybe millions of dollars that have been entrusted to God’s people is being used to entice individuals to fulfill the lust of the flesh.
What shall we do in this dark world?
We should be the light shining in the darkness.
How can God use our businesses to proclaim the name of Jesus? By being like Jesus and walking away from the sins that cause death, not only for our lives but others. Invest your money into stopping sex trafficking or helping teen boys see the need to keep their hearts pure and holy. Educate your business and friends and family on the detrimental effects that Pornography is having on individuals, and if you have struggled in this area, share your story so others will not feel alone.
“Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.” Hebrews 13:7
Live a life that others can imitate.
Extra Resources: Battle plan for freedom – Pure desire for marriages