Throughout human history, warfare has been a constant. While we live in a world where warfare is different than it was thousands of years ago, we use a lot fewer spears, swords, and horses than they did back then, but warfare remains a constant.
Battles have been fought on vast plains, in dense jungles, and through endless oceans; however, the traditional battlefield is beginning to look a little different.
You probably don’t think about the internet or the comments section of YouTube as a battlefield, but plenty of fighting goes on there. We engage with strangers online in fights that we would likely not even be in if that stranger were sitting at our kitchen table.
We may think of war as something that must involve hundreds or thousands of people duking it out with guns, missiles, and drones, but we could be in a war even if there is no one else around. This may sound odd, but there is a war being waged for you.
There is a battle going on for your soul, and this is not only about eternity but also the spiritual health and growth of your soul to become more like Christ.
Where the war on Pornography takes place is in your soul.
A struggle with pornography isn’t just a habitual sin—it’s a spiritual battle. The enemy knows that by entangling believers in the web of pornography, he can effectively disable many from walking confidently in their faith and leading others toward Christ. There aren’t any guns or missiles being used, rather the enemy’s weapons are subtle lies and damaging self-talk.
Understanding the struggle against pornography as a spiritual battle, and not just a personal failure, changes the dynamics. It’s no longer framed as someone who, “just doesn’t have the willpower to quit porn” but it’s a battle against the world, our flesh, and the devil.
Ephesians 6:12 reminds us, “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”
It underscores the necessity of approaching this issue armed with the whole armor of God, as the passage continues to explain in verses 13-18. The typical weapons of war are totally irrelevant when battling against powers and principalities. It requires a belt of truth and a breastplate of righteousness.
Quitting porn is challenging because the struggle is not against flesh and blood; it’s a battle for the soul.
The Spiritual Impact of Pornography.
Research from Dr. Samuel Perry has shed light on the profound impact of pornography on an individual’s spiritual life. A decline in religious commitment, increased doubts about one’s faith, and a diminished desire to serve in the church are just a few of the consequences of regular porn use.
The imagery of warfare aptly describes this struggle. Pornography wages war against who we are and in turn, affects our willingness and desire to engage in spiritual practices or even be involved at church.
The Bible has always cautioned against the perils of such desires.
1 Peter 2:11 warns, “Beloved, I urge you as aliens and strangers to abstain from fleshly lusts which wage war against the soul.” This isn’t a mere poetic expression; it’s a stark reality for many. Fleshly lust, like pornography, impacts a person at the deepest level of who they are.
The shame, guilt, and self-hatred that often accompany porn use can deter individuals from spiritual practices, such as prayer or attending church services.
This is the very essence of how porn wages war on the soul.
Steps to Quit Porn.
However, in the midst of this battle, there’s hope.
Romans 8:1 reminds us, “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” This verse serves as a beacon of hope for those drowning in the toxic shame often accompanying porn addiction.
The message is clear: God’s love and grace are bigger than any mistake or addiction.
Paul says of the goal of his teaching. “But the goal of our instruction is love from a pure heart and a good conscience, and sincere faith 1 Tim. 1:5. Pornography directly attacks these foundations, making it even more crucial to address this issue head-on.
As one becomes more entrenched in porn, the slow fade of spiritual commitment is a testament to the war it wages on the soul.
How do those who struggle with pornography quit and reclaim our spiritual vitality?
The answer lies in accountability, addressing the roots of the addiction, and a steadfast commitment to the truths of the gospel. Those seeking to quit porn must involve their community, be emboldened and confident in the grace and truth of Christ, and utilize tools like the BRACE method, which we developed specifically to help people quit porn or take steps to lock up their phones.
The war against the soul is real, and its consequences are profound. But victory is possible with faith, community, and a commitment to the truths of the gospel.
The fight against pornography is more than just a personal struggle; it’s a spiritual warfare.
