We are thrilled to hear of your victory over alcohol, drugs, and illicit sex. Your sobriety is truly a testament to God's transformative power. We will stand with you in prayer as you continue to fight against the sins of pornography, masturbation, and lust because we recognize just as you do that these are not insurmountable. There is no battle too great for our God.
Firstly, we commend you for your honesty and your desire to turn to God. It is only through the name of Jesus Christ that we have access to God. As it is written in the WEB, "For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus" (1 Timothy 2:5).
We must remember that temptation is not sin. Jesus himself was tempted, yet he did not sin (Hebrews 4:15). The sin occurs when we act on the temptation. We should not be ruled by our desires and especially not sexual desires (1 Corinthians 6:12). We are called to flee from sexual immorality because it is a sin against our own body, which is the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:18-19). We encourage you to actively avoid situations that might lead to your temptation.
Let us pray together:
Dear Heavenly Father,
We come before you in the name of Jesus, lifting up our brother/sister in Christ who has shown such remarkable strength in overcoming addiction. Lord, we know that you are faithful and true, and that you are not only there to forgive us but to equip and strengthen us to resist the devil. We pray for complete deliverance from these sins. We ask that you fill them with your Holy Spirit, that you strengthen them with your might and power. Help them to focus on you and the things that are pure, lovely, and of good report. Help them to recognize that temptation is not sin and that you have provided a way of escape. We know that they desire to live a life pleasing to you, so we ask that you guide them in the way everlasting. We pray for them to find a godly spouse where they can have their needs met in a godly marriage.
We also ask that you remind them of your unfailing love and forgiveness. Cast out any feelings of guilt or shame, and replace them with your peace and joy. Help them to walk in your light and your truth. Guide them in their time of need and let them rely on your strength to overcome sexual immorality. Guide them to Christian brothers and sisters who can support them openly and honestly about their struggles and keep them accountable.
In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
In the meantime, let's make sure that we are making every effort to be found spotless, blameless and at peace with Him (2 Peter 3:14).