The addict. The dictionary defines an addict as someone who has a strong and habitual liking for something.
Something like, for instance, sex.
Now I’m nobody’s fool; I realize most people who have experienced some degree of the sexual experience would agree it’s likable. Some might even go so far as to say sex is downright enjoyable.
But enjoying it and being addicted to it are two separate issues.
God created the sex act. He made it enjoyable. He also gave it his blessing; as it takes place between a married couple, a man and woman who are married to each other.
But God did not create perversion; nor does he condone sex at the expense of either of the partner’s spiritual, emotional, or physical health. However, those with a sexual addiction eventually will not be able to contain the sex drive within the safe boundaries of God’s word. The addiction grows until it becomes a fire that cannot be quenched. It ultimately ruins every part of its slave’s life.
Sexual addiction is not only a physical and emotional addiction, I believe it is a spiritual addiction, as well.
“Or do you not know that he who is joined to a prostitute becomes one body with her? For, as it is written, “The two will become one flesh.” But he who is joined to the Lord becomes one spirit with him. Flee from sexual immorality. Every other sin a person commits is outside the body, but the sexually immoral person sins against his own body.” (1 Corinthians 6:16-18 ESV)
The sexually addicted person becomes an unstable, unpredictable person. Though they may have been born again through faith in Christ, their spirit is divided. One part is connected to Jesus and the other part to the cravings the sexual experience brings.
Selfishness is a major spiritual force in the life of the addict. Pleasing self, satisfying the urge, is the dominating drive. It’s not, “How may I please my spouse”? No, it’s about pleasing self.
Tenderness and self control are spiritual forces that, when developed according to God’s principles and spiritual power, can overcome the cravings, habits, and even the perversions of the sex addict.
No one is born a sex addict. It happens gradually, choice after choice, experience after experience. It grows until it can no longer be contained in the dark, but must manifest itself wherever and whenever the urge; regardless of who may be affected.
It’s like a flame which continually reaches for more fuel. To some, more fuel means greater perversion; others, more stimulants and more often. Still others may act out their addiction targeting children and even animals.
But no one is born craving the fulfillment of sexual fantasies.
Sexual addictions can be broken by the power of God, BUT THE FREEDOM WILL BE MAINTAINED ONE DECISION AT A TIME.
How are you doing?
“Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20 ESV)
You have a choice. Decide what and who you’ll serve. Ask someone you trust to help you act on your decision.
And know God is also as close as the mention of his name.
“Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” (Hebrews 4:16 ESV)
For more information, and a steady diet of encouragement, please go to my facebook page “Freedom From Pornography” @ http://www.facebook.com/dumpporn
Jan Grace 