How To Resist Sexual Temptation As A Christian
Introduction
Sexual temptation is a struggle that many people, including Christians, face. As a Christian, it is important to live a life that is pleasing to God, and sexual sin is not in line with God’s plan for our lives. In this essay, we will discuss in full everything one needs to understand about how to resist sexual temptation as a Christian, and relate it to the Bible.
Understanding Sexual Temptation
Sexual temptation is the urge or desire to engage in sexual behavior outside of God’s plan for our lives. It can come in many forms, such as pornography, lustful thoughts, premarital sex, adultery, and homosexuality. Sexual temptation is not a sin in itself, but giving in to it leads to sin.
The Bible speaks extensively about sexual immorality and its consequences. In 1 Corinthians 6:18, it says, “Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a person commits are outside the body, but whoever sins sexually, sins against their own body.” This shows us the seriousness of sexual sin and the need to flee from it.
Understanding God’s Plan for Sexuality
God created sex to be a beautiful and intimate act between a man and a woman within the covenant of marriage. In Genesis 2:24, it says, “That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh.” This shows us that sex is meant to be enjoyed within the context of marriage.
The Bible also speaks against any form of sexual immorality outside of marriage. In 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, it says, “Or do you not know that wrongdoers will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor men who have sex with men nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.” This passage makes it clear that sexual sin is a sin against God and will lead to eternal separation from Him.
Practical Steps to Resist Sexual Temptation as a Christian
As Christians, we are called to live a life that is pleasing to God. We must take practical steps to resist sexual temptation and live a life that is in line with God’s plan for our sexuality. Here are some practical steps to help resist sexual temptation:
Guard your heart and mind: Proverbs 4:23 says, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” We must be intentional about what we allow into our hearts and minds, such as the media we consume, the people we associate with, and the thoughts we entertain.
Avoid tempting situations: We must be mindful of the situations that can lead us into temptation, such as being alone with someone of the opposite sex, going to places where sexual immorality is prevalent, or spending too much time on social media.
Pray and rely on God: We must rely on God’s strength to resist sexual temptation. In James 4:7, it says, “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” We can pray for God’s help to resist temptation and ask for accountability from fellow believers.
Renew your mind: Romans 12:2 says, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” We can renew our minds by reading and meditating on God’s word, attending church, and listening to Christian teachings.
Practice self-control: Galatians 5:22-23 says, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” Self-control is a crucial aspect of resisting sexual temptation. We must discipline our bodies and minds to resist the temptation to engage in sexual sin.
Accountability: We must surround ourselves with fellow believers who can hold us accountable and support us in our journey to resist sexual temptation. We can join small groups, seek mentorship, and be open with trusted friends or family members.
Conclusion
Resisting sexual temptation as a Christian is not easy, but it is possible. By understanding sexual temptation and God’s plan for our sexuality, we can take practical steps to resist temptation and live a life that is pleasing to God. It is important to guard our hearts and minds, avoid tempting situations, pray and rely on God, renew our minds, practice self-control, and seek accountability. As we pursue purity and holiness, we can find strength in Christ and enjoy the blessings of living a life in line with God’s will.
Shalom
