Five Guards Against Sexual Temptation
By Richard Wines
I am convinced that the challenge for men to stay sexually pure is as difficult today as anytime in history. In a generation where swimsuit models are painted on the sides of commercial airplanes, where sex before marriage is encouraged, and where whatever image the heart desires can be produced in seconds, the test is daunting. But Jesus said, “everyone who looks at a woman with lust for her has committed adultery with her in his heart” (Matthew 5:28 NAS). Paul said, “flee from sexual immorality” (1 Cor 6:18 NIV). For Christian men, purity is not only possible, it is necessary. The following five guards will help.
Accountability – Accountability is to purity as a lifejacket is to staying afloat in the water. Find a Christian friend in the same stage of life and ask one another the hard questions. “What have you done on the Internet,” “what movies have you watched,” and “where have your eyes been,” are good starters. Honesty is crucial, regardless of the offence. Encourage one another when you succeed, pray for one another when you fail. The knowledge that your behavior will be discussed does wonders to keep it pure. Jesus said, “if your right eye makes you stumble, tear it out and throw it from you” (Matthew 5:29 NAS). He said this right after the comment about looking at a woman wrongly. Accountability may be uncomfortable, but in the light of Jesus’ words, it’s hardly a drastic step.
Change the way we view women – I’m amazed by how men view and discuss women. We may not all participate in the coarse talk, but our eyes follow the same pattern. We must overcome a culture that tells us to treat women the same as men, and then inexplicably dresses them to arouse sexual thoughts. Media, fashion, and a false view of sex have spilled over into our hearts and conditioned us to see women as objects of desire rather than sisters in Christ. Paul says to treat “older women as mothers, and younger women as sisters, with absolute purity” (1 Tim 5:2 NAS). Until we view women with the highest class and respect, we will not find victory over sexual temptation.
Guard against the Internet – The Internet is a loaded gun when we desire to stay pure. Put the computer in a public place, not in an obscure corner or office. Use filtering software. Don’t access when alone, or have an accountability partner check when alone. If I were a werewolf and knew the full moon was near, I’d lock myself up. Use the same concept here. Do not erase the cache or history and let someone else view it. Do whatever it takes, or get rid of the computer.
Guard against TV and Movies – The TV is like a poisonous viper, it has a way of striking when least expected. Don’t give the Devil, or hormones, an opportunity. Stay away from R rated movies or movies with sexual content. Some men have a TV curfew cut off time. Don’t buy premium channels like HBO. And don’t think that watching with a wife or girlfriend gives immunity, women are clueless here. If there is any question, don’t watch.
Worship – In the light of God’s presence, the lies, rationalizations, and urge to rebel flee. Be near to God. When tempted, listen to music that glorifies Him. There are plenty of non-traditional choices as well as classics. Pray for strength. Resolve not to use the computer or TV before spending time in God’s word. Go to church and serve in ministry. When we immerse ourselves in worship, we have less opportunity for temptation.
Each man has his own area of weakness and we should guard accordingly. We are in this together, so let us pray for strength and resolve to put on the armor of God. “Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires” (Gal 5:24 NAS). The challenge is great, but with the power of the Holy Spirit and a few reasonable safeguards, we can find victory over sexual temptation.
