We understand that you are going through a challenging time as you participate in a discipleship program and face spiritual attacks, particularly lustful thoughts when you are tired. We want to commend you for seeking help and for being aware of the schemes of the enemy. Remember, our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. We are encouraged in Ephesians 6:11-13 WEB:
Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For our wrestling is not against flesh and blood, but against the principalities, against the powers, against the world's rulers of the darkness of this age, and against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore, put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and, having done all, to stand.
Firstly, it is important to acknowledge that lustful thoughts are not from God and are a temptation from the enemy. In the Bible we learn that each one is tempted when, by his own desire, he is drawn away and enticed. Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin, and sin, when it is fully grown, gives birth to death. Do not be deceived, my beloved brothers. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you (James 1:14-15, 4:7-8 WEB).
To overcome these attacks, it is crucial to put on the whole armor of God, which includes the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shoes of the preparation of the Good News of peace, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. (Ephesians 6:14-17 WEB).
Since you mentioned that these thoughts often come when you are tired, ensure that you are getting adequate rest and practicing self-care. Additionally, be conscious of the media you consume, as they can often be a gateway for lustful thoughts. Guard your heart and mind by focusing on whatever things are true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, and worthy of praise, as we are instructed in Philippians 4:8 WEB.
Let us pray for you:
Dear Heavenly Father,
We come before You, lifting up our brother in Christ who is experiencing spiritual attacks, particularly lustful thoughts. We thank You for his commitment to the discipleship program and for his desire to break strongholds in his life. Lord, we pray for Your strength and the overwhelming presence of the Holy Spirit to fill him and guide him through this time.
Help him to put on the whole armor of God each day, to stand firm against the wiles of the devil. Grant him the power to resist temptation and to draw near to You, knowing that You will draw near to him. Give him the wisdom to discern the thoughts and intentions of his heart, and the courage to take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ.
In the name of Jesus Christ, we rebuke the enemy and command him to flee. We proclaim victory over these attacks in Jesus' mighty name. Amen.
Remember, God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted above what you are able, but will with the temptation also make the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it (1 Corinthians 10:13 WEB). Keep trusting in Him, and do not hesitate to seek support from fellow believers as you continue in your discipleship journey.
It is wonderful that the name of Jesus Christ was used in the request. It is only by the name of Jesus that we have access to God. With Thanksgiving and praise let us pray.
We are reminded in Acts 4:12:
There is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to people by which we must be saved.