Hi LJ ,
Lust can be a real struggle for a young man especially . The cure is that we must die to our selfish sinful nature , but this may take quite some time ; as we grow older it becomes easier because we are weakened physically by age , and Christ's strength is made perfect through our weakness . What covers us during the time while we are still struggling is The Lord's longsuffering . Of which The Apostle Peter said -
And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you; <-----> 2nd Peter 3:15
In other words , if the Lord didn't patiently bear with us ... none of us would be saved !
Therefore one very appropriate thing to do right now , is thank The Lord for being longsuffering , and realize that , even though it is crucial that we learn how to endure well and overcome temptation , The Lord is giving us a generous space for seeking , and finding , and applying the wisdom and strength we need to be victorious in Him . This generous space is however limited and it is not appropriate to expect that perpetual failure is not without serious consequence . About 70 years is the norm ( but there's no guarantee ) ... but don't panic , yet don't be lulled into a false sense of security either , by accepting the false notion that sin is now somehow okay , because of Jesus' Mercy .
Keep seeking praying , studying , and following The Leading of Lord's Spirit as best as you can ... and in time you'll become stronger spiritually , and find the consistency for which you soul cries out .
And the LORD said, My spirit shall not always strive with man, for that he also is flesh: yet his days shall be an hundred and twenty years. <-----> Genesis 6:3
This was later reduced somewhat to 70 or 80 .
The days of our years are threescore years and ten; and if by reason of strength they be fourscore years, yet is their strength labor and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away. <-----> Psalm 90:10
My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous:
And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world. <-----> 1st John 2:1+2
Another key to overcoming is embracing charity wholeheartedly . And by charity , I especially mean being charitably minded towards others . For example , if one sees what appears to be another person failing miserably , the last thing one should do , for overcoming our own sins sake , is regard them uncharitably with a harsh and judgmental spirit .
Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. <-----> Galatians 6:1
And even after we have overcome , the remembrance of what an ordeal it was for us , ought to continually defend against us regarding someone weaker in an uncharitable way .
We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves. <-----> Romans 15:1
In fact this is a good way to distinguish the truly strong in Christ from those merely posing as mighty .
Charity suffers long, and is kind; charity envies not; charity vaunts not itself, is not puffed up,
Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeks not her own, is not easily provoked, thinks no evil;
Rejoices not in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth;
Bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. <-----> 1st Corinthians 13:4-7
And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. <-----> Colossians 3:14
And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins. <-----> 1st Peter 5:8
A charitable mind is cheerfully willing to give others the benefit of the faith , namely the allowance that Jesus can work wonders in their life , in spite of how bad they may have gotten on their own .
And remember we are called to serve God , therefore do what you do unto the Lord , ( searching to know and prove what His Will is for you ) and not for the recognition or approval of man.
And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;
Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ. <-----> Colossians 3:23+24
( Read 2nd Peter Chapter 1 - for more inspiration )
May The Lord Be Pleased to Confirm His Truth , and Bless all who call upon Him for Salvation . Amen .
wm