We Can Remain Chaste

"CALL THE ELDERS"

If we are struggling with wrong sexual desires, fellow Christians are another source of help that we can turn to. Of course, discussing with others, problems of such a personal nature is not easy. But courageously placing ourselves under the kindly scrutiny of a mature Christian may prevent us from rationalizing any wrong desires.  (Proverbs 18:1; Hebrews 3:12, 13) Talking about our weakness with a mature, spiritually qualified Christian may help us to identify blind spots. This can help us to make the necessary adjustments in order to remain in Jehovah's love. 

Christian elders are especially qualified to help us.  (Read James 5:13-15)  A young man in Brazil struggled with wrong desires for many years. He relates:  "I knew that my thoughts displeased Jehovah, but I was too ashamed to share with others what I was feeling." Fortunately, a concerned elder in his congregation reached out to him and encouraged him to get help.  The young man recalls:  "I was surprised at how kind the elders were to me, much kinder  and more understanding than I felt I deserved.  They listened carefully to my problems. They used the Bible to reaffirm Jehovah's love for me, and they prayed with me.  That made it easier for me to accept the Bible's counsel that they provided." Years later, after making good spiritual progress, he says:  "I realize now how important it is to seek help  instead of trying to carry out burdens alone." 

Seeking assistance is essential if the source of any immoral desires is the unclean habit  of viewing pornography.  The longer the delay in seeking help, the greater the risk that unclean desires will 'become fertile and give birth to sin' that will hurt others and bring reproach on Jehovah's name.  The desire to please Jehovah and  to remain  in the Christian congregation has moved many of his servants to accept loving help. -James 1;15; Psalm 145:5; Hebrews 12:5, 6. 

Next time: We Can Remain Chaste - BE DETERMINED TO REMAIN CHASTE!

From the Watchtower magazine, 2015