Is it possible to experience longstanding victory over lustful thoughts?
For many, the answer to this question has been a resounding “no.” Years and sometimes even decades of constant failure have taught us to believe that the holiness described in the Bible is reserved for so-called “spiritual giants.” We often imagine ourselves experiencing victory after reciting a prayer, memorizing scripture, or attending a special church service. While these are not sinful behaviors, the Bible clearly teaches it takes more to experience long-lasting victory.
The Bible does not guarantee sinless perfection, but it does shed some light on this crucial issue and can lead us in our journey to experience the holiness of God in our own lives. Besides the promises of scripture, there are countless testimonies from other believers that Jesus can and will free us from our oppressive, lustful minds if we are willing to follow His commands.
In this episode of "Ask the Counselor," Biblical Counselor Luke Imperato shares both spiritual and practical insights on fighting against lust and recounts some of his own powerful testimony about how God led him out of overwhelming and filthy thinking.
How do I Fight for a Lust Free Mind?
Luke Imperato
How Do I Live in Freedom from Sexual Sin?
June 6, 2020 • Luke Imperato
You may have read Psalm 54:7 before: “For he has delivered me from every trouble, and my eye has looked in triumph on my enemies.” You might look at your life and wonder why this hasn’t happened. Our culture today has been nurtured on the instantaneous. Seemingly everything is “on demand” and many Christians carry this mindset over into their spiritual battles. But even God declared that victory wasn’t going to be instant and would, in fact, be detrimental if He did it that way! Before Joshua led God’s people over the Jordan and into enemy territory, the Lord gave the people His battle strategy. In Exodus 23:29-30, we read, “I will not drive them out before you in a single year, that the land may not become desolate and the beasts of the field become too numerous for you. I will drive them out before you little by little, until you become fruitful and take possession of the land.” The conquest of Canaan was designed by God to be fought over a long period of time and against many enemies. The physical enemies in Joshua’s day have been replaced by a many-headed beast known as “the flesh.” The physical battle ground of Canaan has been transferred to the realm of our heart. And we wield spiritual weapons, not physical. And this war is not over in a single day, as it states in Joshua 11:18, “Joshua waged war a long time with all these kings.” A key tactic to victory is not how fast we sprint into the fray, but how we walk. In this episode, Biblical Counselor Luke Imperato tells us how to biblically wage war through what Paul calls, “walking in the Spirit.” He describes what that looks like, our attitude as we go forward, and also gives us realistic goals in when victory will be achieved.
How Do I Respond if My Child is Viewing Pornography?
April 10, 2020 • Josh Bergstrom
No sincere Christian parent wants to discover that their child is viewing porn. Unfortunately, the ever-increasing sexualization of the youth is making this more of a reality. Navigating through this issue to a good resolution may seem daunting or even impossible. Do not fear! With God, all things are possible! Pure Life Ministries has seen the Lord’s transforming power for decades. Pornography cannot stand when the Lord is at the center of the fight. What would you say if we told you that this is a blessing in disguise? You’d probably say we're crazy. But laying aside your worries and having clear mindedness will help you see that God is granting you and your child a pivotal opportunity to learn some valuable and foundational aspects to living the Christian life as we confront the culture. In this episode of Ask the Counselor, Josh Bergstrom discusses how Christian parents can respond to this weighty matter using Biblical principles. You will be able to guide your child with confidence as you work your way through to the end knowing that the Lord is with you as you follow His design and purpose.
What’s the Difference Between Worldly Sorrow and Godly Sorrow?
March 5, 2020 • Ken Larkin
All people will experience sorrow when they give over to sin. This is especially true of sex addicts because of the stigma, shame and inevitable consequences attached to sexual sin. But the Bible tells us that there are two types of sorrow. A worldly sorrow which leads to death, and godly sorrow which leads to repentance and eternal life. How can a sex addict know which sorrow he is experiencing? There are a number of key things to consider when asking this question. We can see a clear line between the focus and driving motivation behind the two, and it is very important that all those who desire freedom from sexual addiction be able to discern the difference. In this installment of Ask the Counselor, Biblical Counselor Ken Larkin diligently walks us through the key differences between worldly sorrow and godly sorrow so that we might experience the genuine and life-changing sorrow of God.