Sometimes I think complete asceticism is the only ideal way - but...who can do it?

[Lady Bug]

In an ideal world I think that all of us could attempt to mitigate our sufferings with our struggles with sexuality by getting rid of every single possible thing that could contribute to our temptations to sexual sin. But then again, in an ideal world, we may not be prone to temptations - just a thought.

In the midst of prayer and attempts to focus on Scripture and the avoidance of sin or situations that could lead to sin, I realize that there are things in my life that I cannot seem to let totally go of - but if I did, it might be helpful for me against certain struggles. Like some of the music I listen to (which, for the world's standards, isn't that bad - but I question it in regard to Christian standards), or any particular people I speak with that could unwittingly cause me to sexually sin, or anything I might encounter on the television - accidentally.

Anyone find it hard to let go of things that could cause them to sexually sin and try to tell yourself that you'll "stay strong" in the process of keeping those things? It doesn't really work - but we try to convince ourselves that if we tell ourselves enough to be strong, it won't bother us anymore. That's the problem.

 

[Bellicus]

I don't think asceticism will bring any solution. Even if we live in a cave in the middle of the jungle to avoid anything that would cause us to sin, then there would still be temptations not from other things, but coming from our inside. The bible also tell that nothing from the outside makes us unclean, but our evil thoughts make us unclean. And another thing is that if we would remove ourselves from the world somehow, then we would also remove ourselves from people that might be good for us.

We just have to accept that even if we want to do what is good, still there will be many times where we will do things that are not good, as long as we live in this world. And we would have no hope, if our goal were to be perfect for God. Our only hope is that by not giving up, but continue to believe that God wants us anyway how miserable we are, we will one day find another world that is better then this one.

 

[madison1101]

I find I go through cycles. I have periods where the temptation is intense, and then I have periods when I am oblivious to it. The more I am in the Word, and praying the less the temptation, and the stronger I am.

The paradox is that when I feel strong, and begin to think I am in control is when I can fall the hardest, BECAUSE I forget that it is not my strength that helps me resist, but God's strength. Of myself, I can do nothing. I often forget that it is the Lord's strength that helps me resist.

I hope this makes sense.

Hugs,
Trish

 

[Johnnz]

Looking at externals won't get you that far. Our sexuality is an inherent, real and often strong part of us. It must never become our enemy. You are probably being far to hard on yourself sexually. Some healthy rethinking will be very beneficial.

John
NZ

 

[Carolyn H]

Php 4:6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
Php 4:7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Php 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.
Php 4:9 Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.
..............................................................................

Praying for you!!!

 

[Lady Bug]

Anyway - I didn't think of it your (plural "your") way at the time. I was only looking at the outside in instead of the inside out. I'm not sure why I forget such things about our sinful nature - especially the part where nothing outside can make us unclean - it's the temptations that are inherently inside us first. Although I do feel that avoiding occasions where we could knowingly commit sexual sins is prudent, I can see what you guys are saying. It's not that simple, huh

 

[Johnnz]

It's not that simple. But it is also very important to recognise that the basis of our desires is God given. We need self control, but that does not mean civil war.

John
NZ