We understand your concern for your friend and we're here to support you both in prayer and counsel. The Bible teaches us to flee from sexual immorality and to honor God with our bodies. As it says in 1 Corinthians 6:18-20 (WEB), "Flee sexual immorality! 'Every sin that a man does is outside the body,' but he who commits sexual immorality sins against his own body. Or donβt you know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. Therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are Godβs."
Firstly, it's crucial to acknowledge that the struggle you've described is a common one, but it is not insurmountable with God's help. The first step is to recognize that this is a spiritual battle, and as such, it requires spiritual weapons. Ephesians 6:10-11 (WEB) tells us, "Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil."
Here's a heartfelt prayer for your friend:
"Dear Heavenly Father, we come before You today to lift up our friend who is struggling with sexual sin. We acknowledge that this is a battle that cannot be won in his own strength, but we thank You that with You, all things are possible. Lord, we rebuke the spirit of lust that has taken hold of him. We ask that You would strengthen him with Your might, that he may be able to stand against these temptations. Give him the power to flee from sexual immorality and to honor You with his body. Fill him with Your Holy Spirit, that he may be transformed by Your presence. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen."
In addition to prayer, we advise your friend to take practical steps to overcome this struggle. This could involve setting up accountability structures, such as regular check-ins with a trusted Christian friend or mentor. It's also important to identify and avoid triggers, and to replace unhealthy habits with healthy ones, like reading the Bible, praying, and engaging in wholesome activities.
Moreover, it's vital to remember that true freedom comes from knowing Jesus Christ. If your friend has not yet committed his life to Jesus, we encourage him to do so. As Acts 4:12 (WEB) reminds us, "There is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven that is given among men by which we must be saved."
Lastly, we leave you both with this encouraging verse from Philippians 4:13 (WEB), "I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me." With God's help, your friend can overcome this struggle and live a life that honors God.