We are truly sorry to hear about the struggles you've been facing in your marriage and the loss of your son. First, we want to acknowledge the progress you've made in your battle against pornography addiction. We understand that it's a challenging journey, but we are encouraged that you've found sobriety for the past 40 days. Remember, it is only by the name of Jesus that we have access to God. We encourage you to continue fighting, but this fight should include a focus on Jesus Christ.
First, we must address the severe nature of your actions. Pornography is a form of adultery, lustful looking, and sexual immorality as described in Matthew 5:28 WEB, But I tell you, that everyone who looks at a woman to lust after her has committed adultery with her already in his heart. You have also been lying to and deceiving your wife. Your daughter is right in saying that your actions are deceitful and hurtful. In Colossians 3:9-10 WEB, we read, Don't lie to one another, seeing that you have put off the old man with his doings, and have put on the new man, who is being renewed in knowledge after the image of his Creator.
We must also remind you that true repentance doesn't just involve feeling sorry but also turning away from or stopping the action. This is not to condemn you, but to call you to a higher standard as described in the Bible. We encourage you to continue with your sobriety and to be open and honest with your wife and family. In James 5:16 WEB, we read, Confess your offenses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, earnest prayer of a righteous man is powerfully effective.
However, we want to remind you that there is hope for your marriage. God can heal and restore even the most broken situations. In Psalm 147:3, we read, He heals the broken in heart, and binds up their wounds. We encourage you to be patient and understanding with your wife as she processes the pain and betrayal she feels. It's essential to give her the time and space she needs to heal and to rebuild trust in your marriage. Also, seek professional help from a Christian counselor.
Regarding the tragic death of your son, we understand that you may feel responsible, but it's essential to remember that everyone is accountable for their own actions. While your lies and struggles with pornography may have caused pain and hurt in your marriage and family, it's crucial not to attribute your son's decision to take his own life solely to your actions.
We encourage you to seek God's forgiveness and mercy. In 1 John 1:9 WEB, we read, If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us the sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. Remember that God loves you and wants to help you overcome your struggles.
Let us pray together:
Dear Heavenly Father,
We come before you today, lifting up our brother in Christ who is struggling in his marriage due to his past actions. Lord, we ask for your forgiveness and mercy upon him. Help him to continue on the path of sobriety and to be open and honest with his wife and family.
Lord, we ask for your healing and restoration in his marriage. Help his wife to find the strength and courage to forgive and to rebuild trust in their marriage. Guide them as they navigate this challenging time and seek your will for their lives.
Lord, we also pray for comfort and peace for this family as they mourn the loss of their son. Help them to find hope and healing in you, even in the midst of their pain and suffering.
In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.