GroshLink

Thank-you to Kevin for forwarding How and Why Pornography Hurts a Marriage: Occasional and addictive use is damaging to real relationships (Harvest USA, Nicholas Black).  The article begins by discussing the decline in Christian marriages and the role which pornography (especially internet pornography) has played, particularly among men.  Black highlights three central ways in which Pornography damages marriage:

• Makes Sex Selfish and Self-centered.
• Isolates You From Your Wife and Family
• Can Make Sex a Compulsion

Conclusion:  "This article started by saying this: One way to start on the road to change and transformation is…to examine the damage to oneself and others when one is caught in addictive struggles. Honestly facing the damage it can cause can provide some motivation to change. But there needs to be more. You need to believe that God has so much more for your life and for your marriage. Real relationships are worth the investment of your time and your heart. They always are, even in the midst of their brokenness.   When God entered our world in flesh-and-blood he placed the highest value on our bodies and on our relationships. His forgiving work toward us on the cross is what he came to do—to heal the brokenness in our lives and in our relationships and to give us a taste of what real life is all about.

 

There is a wonderful journey of freedom ahead.  But as pornography was an isolated activity, the hope for change cannot be done all by yourself.  It must begin by asking God for forgiveness and to seek his help to change. And God is gracious to forgive and help, but the help that God will give you will come only through your willingness to seek help from others.  That is generally how God works, through his people, the church.  Begin that journey by talking openly and honestly with a friend, or a pastor or church leader.  Taking that first step will give you the experience of forgiveness that you need and the hope for something better that you long for."