Coping as a Christian: Sex Addiction

If you’re a Christian struggling with sexual addiction, you’re not alone. Covid-19 and the internet have contributed greatly to rises in pornography use and sexual addiction. Christians are just as vulnerable to sexual immorality and addiction as anyone else, but with the powers of God and professional help, Christians CAN overcome sexual addiction.

“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” —Romans 3:23

To begin overcoming sexual addiction, Christians need to start being honest with themselves. As the book of Romans tells us, we all sin and fall short of God. Sex is a beautiful gift from God, but internet pornography and the sexualization of modern society have turned something beautiful into something ugly by tempting all of us with the quick fix of sexual immorality, leading us into potential sex addiction. When Christians give themselves over to sexual fantasies involving someone other than their spouse or to internet pornography, we’re committing the sin of adultery. If you find yourself repeating a cycle of sexually immoral behaviors, you could be addicted. The first step on the path to healing is to admit that you have a sexual addiction problem.

Addiction to pornography and other sexual sins can be a powerful temptation, and it can be very difficult to overcome without the help of God and professional Christian counselors. The Holy Spirit cannot bring about change in our life if we keep substituting sexual sin in place of the love of God, but understanding the spiritual effects of sexual addiction can also help you overcome it. When you humble yourself before God and confess and repent of your sins, you’re allowing Him into your heart and mind to purify you and grant you the wisdom and understanding you need to start overcoming your sexually immoral urges.

Prayer is our most powerful tool in the fight against sexual addiction. As Christians, we have an all-powerful and loving God that we can turn to in our times of need. The more we walk with God and spend time in the Bible, the more we can strengthen our spiritual selves to resist and overcome the sexual temptations we might face throughout the day. However, Christians must make sure they’re taking personal steps to resist sexual addiction as well.

Limiting your time online is an easy way to start resisting sexual immorality. Pursuing healthier coping options like exercise can not only lead to physical health but mental health as well. Unfollow any risky influencers in your feed that post sexually provocative pictures, and stop watching movies that feature sexual themes and connotations. When we take steps like these to limit our interaction with temptation, it will be easier to allow for the Holy Spirit and a professional counselor to help us overcome any sexual addiction.

The road to overcoming sex addiction is a long and difficult one. NuWell Christian Counseling is here to help Christians learn to overcome their addiction through faithful counseling that is grounded in the Word of God. If you or someone you know is suffering from sexual addiction, reach out to us today!