Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 10:12-13
When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you will not give in to it. 1 Corinthians 10: 13
DARYL’S YOUTH PASTOR told him that when he was tempted by sexual sin, he should pray about it. “But then I just think about it more,” he moaned. “Endlessly praying about it doesn’t seem to help.”
The pressure to conform to culture’s view of sex is strong. You feel pressed by the media, your friends, and your own desires. And prayer is just one piece of your strategy for dealing with sexual temptation. Here are a number of helps that can serve as God’s “escape route” from sin:
Set standards beforehand. Determine right and wrong based on God’s Word. Then make sure your date knows about them before you go out.
Be accountable. Keep another person informed about your actions, thoughts, and attitudes-someone of the same sex, someone more mature spiritually, someone you respect. If you start to slide in your standards, let him or her help you get back on track.
Let your lifestyle show. Say no to sexual pressure by your words, your body language, and your actions. Let your whole life declare, “I’m going God’s way.”
Keep your mind pure. What you feed your mind determines what you think about, so be careful about what you let into your mind through your eyes and ears.
Avoid sex-oriented media. Make it a habit to shut out TV programs, videos, movies, books, magazines, music, or software that violates your standards.
Dress to reflect your convictions. Both girls and guys need to dress modestly. Pick clothes that look good but that aren’t cut for their tum-on effect.
Choose your companions carefully. Hang out with people who have the same convictions you have. Get involved in groups that support your right choices.
Seek the wisdom of others. Choose good role models. Talking with older, more mature people-parents, pastors, or youth leaders-can help you sort out confusing emotions.
Break off relationships. If you are getting pressured or giving in to pressure from someone, backing off from or ending that relationship relieves the pressure.
Make a fast, strategic exit. Be honest about your weakness. If you think you can’t handle a situation, head for the door.
Ask God to help. None of these other strategies will work unless you realize that you really do need help. God doesn’t want you to be a lone ranger. Use prayer as your first step-and all along the way.
REFLECT: What strategies do you want to put into action in your battle against sexual pressures?
PRAY: Spend time today talking to God about the sexual pressure in your life.
