Finding Sure Protection From a Satanic Trap - DO NOT DWELL ON IMMORAL DESIRES

As noted earlier, many Israelites let wrong desires lead them to disaster.  The same thing can happen today. Jesus' half brother James described the danger:  "Each one is  . . .drawn out and enticed by his own desire. Then the desire, when it has become fertile, gives birth to sin." (James 1:14, 15)  Once an illicit desire grows go certain point in someone's heart, it is quite likely that the person will sin.  So we must get rid of immoral thoughts, not dwell on them.

If unclean thoughts entice you, take immediate action. Jesus said:"If, then, you hand or your foot makes you stumble, cut it off and throw it away from you . . .Also, if your eye makes you stumble, tear it out and throw it away from you." (Matthew 18:8, 9) Jesus was not suggesting self-mutilation.  He was illustrating the need to remove the source of stumbling -quickly and decisively.  How can we apply that counsel as respects pornography?

If you come across pornography, do not think, 'I can handle it,' immediately look away. Turn off the television right away.  Shut down the computer or mobile device at once.  Refocus on something clean.  Doing his can help you control your thinking instead of letting wrong desires control you. 

Next time:  Finding Sure Protection From a Satanic Trap - WHAT ABOUT MEMORIES OF IMMORAL ENTERTAINMENT?

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