Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Overcoming Lust
Overcoming Lust
Overcoming Lust
By
Stephen R. Hogan
Overcoming Lust
2nd Edition
ISBN 978-1-105-62854-2
Introduction ............................................................................ 1
Section One: Understanding Lust .......................................... 3
Chapter One: What is Lust? ................................................... 4
Chapter Two: The Tempter & Temptation .......................... 12
Chapter Three: Temptations & Trials .................................. 16
Section Two: The Development of Lust .............................. 18
Chapter Four: Just a Seed ..................................................... 19
Chapter Five: Opening the Wrong Door .............................. 22
Section Three: True Love & the Consequences of Lust ...... 28
Chapter Six: Relationships ................................................... 29
Chapter Seven: Playboys & Playgirls .................................. 36
Chapter Eight: The Media .................................................... 43
Chapter Nine: The Difference between Lust & Love .......... 46
Section Four: How to Overcome.......................................... 55
Chapter Ten: Braking the Cycle & Labeling Sin ................. 56
Chapter Eleven: Restoration ................................................ 62
Chapter Twelve: Keys to Success ........................................ 67
Epilogue................................................................................ 75
References ............................................................................ 78
Other Publications ................................................................ 79
Introduction
1
Overcoming Lust
frailties of our character as well as the devils, thus enabling the
reader to have a better understanding of the issues presented.
Nevertheless, it is important to note that lust cannot be eradi-
cated unless a choice is made to truly follow Christ.
2
Section One: Understanding Lust
Abstract of section
3
Chapter One: What is Lust?
4
Chapter One: What is Lust?
sin contaminated perfection. Sex in itself was established by
God, but He never intended for us to battle with impure desires
and/or thoughts. Consequently, because of sin, lust burns within
our members. To understand the issue of lust three points will
be analyzed.
5
Overcoming Lust
“…Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of
the garden” (Verse 1). The devil questioned what God
said and tried to cause doubt in Eve’s mind and he was
successful.
“…We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden: But
of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden,
God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye
touch it, lest ye die” (Verse 2 and 3). By analyzing these
verses there are five mistakes that Eve made.
1. She misunderstood the instructions of the Lord.
God never said, “do not touch the tree.” Rather
He said, “do not eat of it.”
2. She was in the place of temptation. This was a
foolish mistake as she could have avoided tempta-
tion by avoiding the place of temptation. Our
greatest errors are as a result of being in the wrong
places.
3. She started to converse with the devil. The devil
seized that opportunity and confused her and be-
cause she lacked knowledge, she believed what
the devil said.
4. She forgot that she was already made in the image
6
Chapter One: What is Lust?
of God.
5. She gave into the temptation because she could
not control her desires because she, “...saw that
the tree was good for food, and that it was pleas-
ant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make
one wise...” (Genesis 3:6).
The devil hates God and when he saw Adam and Eve
he saw the very image of God. Have you ever asked why the
devil hates you? Ezekiel 28:12-191 talks about the king of
Tyrus (the devil) being in the Garden of Eden. While in
heaven the devil was adorned with jewels and these jewels
reflected God’s image, thus causing the angles to worship
the image of God seen in these jewels, which led to pride in
the devil. As a result he sinned and was cast down to the
earth. Therefore, when he saw Adam and Eve and sees you
today, his desire is to cause destruction because humanity
reflects God’s image, the image that satan once bore. This
was and has always been satan’s motivation because he does
not want humanity to take his place, but we did. Eve was
naive and did not consider the consequences or the reper-
cussions of her actions because she acted on impulse.
7
Overcoming Lust
2. The consequences of the first temptation: Most of us
are naive like Eve and we often act on impulse when
tempted. Why do we act on impulse? Is it because we do
not understand God’s Word? No, we understand it, but
we are simply stupid because we think we can handle
temptation. Can we take fire into our bosoms and not be
burned (Proverbs 6:272)? Stanley (2004) notes, “Noth-
ing has stolen more dreams, dashed more hopes, broken
up more families, and messed up more people psycholog-
ically than our propensity to God’s commands regarding
sexual purity. Most of the major social ills…are caused
by, or fuelled by, the misuse of our sexuality” (p. 107-
108). People take fire into their bosoms believing they
can handle it, when in reality it destroys. Maybe we do
not comprehend the consequences of sin fully, thus we
sin believing we will not suffer. No, we understand that
we will pay for our sins one day, and that is why that
those who sin sexually fear dying because they know
that they will burn in hell for their errors. Why do we sin
then? This question will be answered in a later chapter.
When we give into lust we have acted irrationally and at
that moment lust takes over, drives us at unbelievable
8
Chapter One: What is Lust?
speeds and we simply lose all control. Are you like Eve?
Have you made numerous errors? We have all made mis-
takes, but you are in control not the devil. The emotions
of lust can be controlled, but it takes time and practice.
It’s all about discipline, which brings us to the third
point.
3. Why do people battle lust? Despite studying the first
temptation and although lust has been defined, people
will still ask, “why do people battle lust and why are we
tempted?” We unquestionably have an adversary, but
can all the blame be put on the devil? The answers to
these questions are found in James. “Blessed is the man
that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall
receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised
to them that love him. Let no man say when he is tempt-
ed, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with
evil, neither tempteth he any man: But every man is
tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and en-
ticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth
sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death”
(James 1:13-15). From the above Scripture, God will
bless those who endure temptation. In addition, God is
9
Overcoming Lust
not to blame when we are tempted neither does the
Scripture mention anything about the devil. It says,
“every man is tempted when drawn away by his own
lustful desires.” In the garden Eve’s curiosity brought
her to the place of temptation and it was her choice to
sin. The devil saw Eve in the place of temptation and
seized that opportunity to tempt her. We are tempted be-
cause we do not do what were expected to do. We know
certain things are wrong, but because of uncontrollable
desires we get into compromising situations and do what
is forbidden. Once we compromise and convince our-
selves that what we are doing is correct this leads to sin-
ful actions, which will eventually bring forth spiritual
and eternal death. It is simple, we are tempted because of
a lack of self control and unwise choices. Stanley (2004)
summed it up this way, “our greatest moral regrets are
always preceded by a series of unwise choices” (p. 114).
10
Chapter One: What is Lust?
his merchandise. If we continue to lack self control, we will
keep the devil in business thus bringing about our destruction.
1
Son of man, take up a lamentation upon the king of Tyrus, and say unto him, Thus saith
the Lord GOD; Thou sealest up the sum, full of wisdom, and perfect in beauty. 13: Thou
hast been in Eden the garden of God; every precious stone was thy covering, the sardius,
topaz, and the diamond, the beryl, the onyx, and the jasper, the sapphire, the emerald, and
the carbuncle, and gold: the workmanship of thy tabrets and of thy pipes was prepared in
thee in the day that thou wast created. 14: Thou art the anointed cherub that covereth; and
I have set thee so: thou wast upon the holy mountain of God; thou hast walked up and
down in the midst of the stones of fire. 15: Thou wast perfect in thy ways from the day
that thou wast created, till iniquity was found in thee. 16: By the multitude of thy
merchandise they have filled the midst of thee with violence, and thou hast sinned:
therefore I will cast thee as profane out of the mountain of God: and I will destroy thee,
O covering cherub, from the midst of the stones of fire. 17: Thine heart was lifted up
because of thy beauty, thou hast corrupted thy wisdom by reason of thy brightness: I will
cast thee to the ground, I will lay thee before kings, that they may behold thee. 18: Thou
hast defiled thy sanctuaries by the multitude of thine iniquities, by the iniquity of thy
traffick; therefore will I bring forth a fire from the midst of thee, it shall devour thee, and
I will bring thee to ashes upon the earth in the sight of all them that behold thee. 19: All
they that know thee among the people shall be astonished at thee: thou shalt be a terror,
and never shalt thou be any more (Ezekiel 28:12-19).
2
Can a man take fire in his bosom, and his clothes not be burned (Proverbs 6:27).
11
Chapter Two: The Tempter & Temptation
12
Chapter Two: The Tempter & Temptation
he once reflected and this is why he wanted to destroy
humanity. Genesis 3:13 describes the devil as wise and in
that chapter he was lurking to devour God’s creation and
succeeded. The tempter was wise, but in reality he had
no power because the power of choice was in Eve’s
hands. Eve could have walked away from the source of
temptation, but instead she gave into the sales pitch of
the devil and convinced her husband to follow her lead.
3. The equippers of the devil: As mentioned several
times, the devil’s greatest weapon is temptation. If you
avoid the places of temptation and refuse to listen to him,
you can live above temptation and lust, thereby disarm-
ing him. The devil sowed a seed of doubt into Eve’s
mind. As a result she sinned and her husband followed
her footsteps. Giving into temptation always leads to a
downward spiral. Temptation in itself is not a sin be-
cause Jesus was tempted, yet He was without sin. Temp-
tation only becomes sinful when you give into it. Eve
was tempted, but it is only when she ate of the fruit that
she sinned. In contrast, Adam was not tempted (1st Timo-
thy 2:144), but followed his wife and not God. As Chris-
tians we must make a choice to triumph over sin and not
13
Overcoming Lust
follow the world. Stanley (2004) notes that, “As long as
we take our cues from the culture…sexual misconduct is
one easy decision away” (p. 122). This is the very reason
why holiness is essential. The tempter will try to entice
you and overthrow you if you equip him. However, you
must fight and try your best to overcome lust, self, the
devil and the world. So, you must ask yourself the fol-
lowing questions:
Will I continue to be an equipper of the devil?
Will I continually sell him ammunition and re-buy it
from him?
14
Chapter Two: The Tempter & Temptation
to learn self-control and with a little guidance you can stop
providing the devil with his distrustful equipment.
1
How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down
to the ground, which didst weaken the nations! 13: For thou hast said in thine heart, I will
ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the
mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north: 14: I will ascend above the heights
of the clouds; I will be like the most High. 15: Yet thou shalt be brought down to hell, to
the sides of the pit. 16: They that see thee shall narrowly look upon thee, and consider
thee, saying, Is this the man that made the earth to tremble, that did shake kingdoms; 17:
That made the world as a wilderness, and destroyed the cities thereof; that opened not
the house of his prisoners (Isaiah 14:12-17).
2
And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish
the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of
the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth. 2:7: And the LORD God
formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and
man became a living soul. 2:21: And the LORD God caused a deep sleep to fall upon
Adam, and he slept: and he took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof;
2:22: And the rib, which the LORD God had taken from man, made he a woman, and
brought her unto the man. 2:23: And Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh
of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man (Genesis
1:28; 2:7, 21-23).
3
Now the serpent was more subtil than any beast of the field which the LORD God had
made… (Genesis 3:1).
4
And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression
(1st Timothy 2:14).
15
Chapter Three: Temptations & Trials
“And it came to pass after these things, that God did tempt
Abraham...” (Genesis 22:1).
16
Chapter Three: Temptations & Trials
trials of love, loyalty, values, obedience, faith, commitment and
sacrifice all of which Abraham experienced. God uses trials to
help us become valuable. Psalms 66:10 says, “For thou, O
God, hast proved us: thou hast tried us, as silver is tried.” In
addition, 1st Peter 1:7 says, “That the trial of your faith, being
much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be
tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and
glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ.”
17
Section Two: The Development of Lust
Abstract of section
18
Chapter Four: Just a Seed
19
Overcoming Lust
to deal with issues that affect your mind, body, soul and spirit.
20
Chapter Four: Just a Seed
In conclusion, if you are sincere about getting right with
God and truly want to be delivered, you must find the source of
your problem. Pulling up a root at times is hard, but when it is
up it is much easier to deal with. God wants to heal you and He
can, but you must be willing to undergo the surgery of change.
When you find the source of your weakness and deal with it, it
is only then that you will overcome lust. Here are some ques-
tions you should ask yourself if you are ready for a change:
21
Chapter Five: Opening the Wrong Door
22
Chapter Five: Opening the Wrong Door
choices’ led to another, until the temptation was irresistible”
(p.121)
23
Overcoming Lust
Diagram 1
24
Chapter Five: Opening the Wrong Door
desire to change might be present, however one can feel like
the cycle cannot be broken thus they continue living in sin. We
must not be deceived, this cycle can be broken. For instance,
the internet was my weak point and I would often repent and
try to change, but was unwilling to give-up the internet. When
seeking deliverance I realized that I needed to give-up the
internet. In order to stop viewing inappropriate websites I had
to brake the cycle of sin. I had to forsake the source of my
temptation. Yes, I used the internet for school and church
purposes, but I would go to a public place to use it. I had to
make a choice and I had to start closing the wrong doors. I
needed to brake the cycle of sin.
25
Overcoming Lust
tation.
2. If your eyes offend you, pluck them out. In other
words do not look at women inappropriately, do not go
to certain areas that cause your eyes to wander, etc. Do
as Job did, “I made a covenant with mine eyes…” (Job
31:1).
1
Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to
destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: 14: Because strait is the gate, and
narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it (Matthew 7:13-
14).
2
Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil. 2:
And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was afterward an hungred. 3: And
26
Chapter Five: Opening the Wrong Door
when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these
stones be made bread. 4: But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by
bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. 5: Then the
devil taketh him up into the holy city, and setteth him on a pinnacle of the temple, 6: And
saith unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down: for it is written, He shall
give his angels charge concerning thee: and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at
any time thou dash thy foot against a stone. 7: Jesus said unto him, It is written again,
Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God. 8: Again, the devil taketh him up into an
exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory
of them; 9: And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down
and worship me. 10: Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written,
Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve. 11: Then the devil
leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him (Matthew 4:1-11).
27
Section Three: True Love & the Consequences of Lust
Abstract of section
28
Chapter Six: Relationships
29
Overcoming Lust
There are many types of relationships and in each there are
guidelines.
30
Chapter Six: Relationships
most likely you’re not following the example of the Mas-
ter. Even if you are following the Master some people
will still try to tarnish your reputation, but they will fail
if you truly follow Christ.
4. Dating relationships: The challenges of lust are often
found in these relationships for both believers and non-
believers. For non-believers, it is recommended that da-
ting others is brought to a halt in order to be victorious.
In fact I recommend Christians to abide by this standard
as it will help you in your quest to overcome lust. As
Christians, we “Don't team up with those who are unbe-
lievers. How can righteousness be a partner with wick-
edness? How can light live with darkness” (2nd
Corinthians 6:14 NLT). As Christians we do not date
unbelievers nor should we date someone who believes in
a different standard as this causes confusion. Further-
more, while dating, we avoid temptations such as, em-
bracing, kissing and all forms of physical contact as it
will lead to sin. Any physical contact between couples
should only be experienced within a marriage relation-
ship. This standard also should apply to non-believers
who desire to change.
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Overcoming Lust
5. Marriage relationships: Marriage is between one man
and one woman and faithfulness is mandatory (Matthew
19:4-53). Divorce nowadays is common and people di-
vorce for various reasons, but there is only one reason
given for divorce and it is sexual immorality (Matthew
19:94). Those who commit adultery do not have the true
love of God within. Christians who struggle in this area
love God, but they also have a love for the world. A per-
son can love God, but not have His love within them. Of-
tentimes marital problems cause people to be unfaithful
in an attempt to find “love” elsewhere. Unfaithfulness
often leads to divorce. Some individuals will even remar-
ry and try again, however according to the Scriptures, a
person who gets divorced for any other reason than sex-
ual immorality commits adultery if they remarry. Fur-
thermore, the person who gets married to the divorced
person whether they were married or not, also commits
adultery. God’s true plan was and is one man and one
woman till death. Divorce was permitted due to the
hardness of hearts, but from the beginning of time it was
not so. Although one can divorce because of sexual im-
morality it does not give them a license to remarry in fact
32
Chapter Six: Relationships
second marriages are not lawful unless the person is a
widower. In addition, some people leave a marriage be-
cause of other problems such as psychological, verbal
and/or physical abuse or because of alcoholism, crimi-
nality, mental instability, financial problems, etc. Leav-
ing a harmful situation is understandable, but in spite of
this, the marriage cannot be annulled because marriage is
until death (Romans 7:25). Those who divorce and/or
mistreat their spouse often do this because of negative
circumstances and they do not have the love of God
within. If you are married, you need to have an uncondi-
tional love for your spouse. True love maintains relation-
ships.
6. Sexual relationship: This is specifically between a man
and a woman who are married. If we commit fornication
or adultery, the love of God does not dwell within us.
Hebrews 13:46 and 1st Corinthians 7:2-57 teach us right
from wrong in regards to sexual relations. The purpose
of a sexual relationship is for couples to enjoy sexual
benefits with or without contraceptives. Among Chris-
tians, contraceptives are a subject of much confusion.
According to Bernard (1985), “Since procreation is not
33
Overcoming Lust
the only valid purpose for sex within marriage, birth
control is not inherently wrong. We find no scriptural
prohibition on family planning or birth control. Howev-
er, we should avoid any method that deliberately aborts
life after conception” (p. 252 -253). While enjoying sex-
ual benefits, a couple should only engage in appropriate
acts and should avoid inappropriate sexual acts such as,
harming one’s body and sodomy. Those who practice in-
appropriate acts do not have the love of God within.
1
Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of
Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost
(Acts 2:38).
2
And, ye fathers (and mothers or step parents), provoke not your children to wrath: but
bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord (Ephesians 6:4).
34
Chapter Six: Relationships
3
And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read, that he which made them at the
beginning made them male and female, 5: And said, For this cause shall a man leave
father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh
(Matthew 19:4-5).
4
And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and
shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth
commit adultery (Matthew 19:9).
5
For the woman (or man) which hath an husband (or wife for men) is bound by the law
to her husband (or wife) so long as he (she) liveth; but if the husband (or wife) be dead,
she (he) is loosed from the law of her husband (wife) (Romans 7:2).
6
Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers
God will judge (Hebrews 13:4).
7
Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every
woman have her own husband. 3: Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence:
and likewise also the wife unto the husband. 4: The wife hath not power of her own body,
but the husband: and likewise also the husband hath not power of his own body, but the
wife. 5: Defraud ye not one the other, except it be with consent for a time, that ye may
give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again, that Satan tempt you not
for your incontinency (1st Corinthians 7:2-5).
35
Chapter Seven: Playboys & Playgirls
36
Chapter Seven: Playboys & Playgirls
are not in the divine will of God and will go to hell if they do
not repent.
37
Overcoming Lust
within, they do horrible things. For instance, prostitution is a
major problem in our world. The human trafficking system is
often run by pimps who are seeking to make fast money and
who have issues with lust. The women, men, transsexuals,
children and teens are often forced into this system, though
some do it willingly. Playboys and playgirls will often go to
massage parlors, brothel houses and spas seeking pleasure.
They will engage in sexual acts such as, masturbation,
cunnilinus, fellatio, kissing, touching, embracing and teasing.
All of which are wrong when experienced outside of marriage.
In essence, promiscuous people are prostitutes and the Bible
prohibits prostitution (Deuteronomy 22:243 and Proverbs 5:3-
5; 23:27-284).
38
Chapter Seven: Playboys & Playgirls
heaven (1st Corinthians 6:9-106). People who struggle in these
areas are full of lust and need deliverance because God will
judge people who commit such acts. As Christians, we are to
love sinners, but we cannot approve or accept the sinful acts of
cross-dressing, sex changes, homosexuality, lesbianism or
being effeminate. God will judge those who do not change
(Leviticus 18:22; 20:137 and Romans 1:26-278). Some people
claim they were born gay, but this is erroneous. The book of
Romans states that there is a natural affection which is sexual
relations between males and females. It goes onto explain that
people decide to become homosexuals or lesbians because of
their lustful desires. Being a homosexual or a lesbian is a
choice. People are not born gay nor is there an error in a per-
son’s DNA and chromosomes since they are either male or
female. “…God is not the author of confusion…” (1st Corinthi-
ans 14:33). People who have same sex relations are desperately
trying to find a solution to fulfill the emptiness within.
39
Overcoming Lust
is a right way to enjoy its benefits. Hence, we need to seek God
continually so that our desires will remain pure. As Christians,
we do not expose our bodies to others, go to massage parlors,
spas or brothel house for any purpose because it is wrong and
can turn us into playboys or girls. A true Christians cherishes
his or her body and avoids showing off their body and/or avoids
engaging in acts that are not appropriate. Lust alters and de-
stroys our vision and divine destiny. It is time to standup for
what is right by following the right principles of the Bible.
Scriptural references
1st Thessalonians 4:39, 1st Corinthians 6:13, 18-2010 and
Matthew 15:18-2011.
1
What? know ye not that he which is joined to an harlot is one body? for two, saith he,
shall be one flesh (1st Corinthians 6:16).
2
But whoso committeth adultery with a woman lacketh understanding: he that doeth it
destroyeth his own soul (Proverbs 6:32).
3
Then ye shall bring them both out unto the gate of that city, and ye shall stone them
with stones that they die; the damsel, because she cried not, being in the city; and the
man, because he hath humbled his neighbour's wife: so thou shalt put away evil from
among you (Deuteronomy 22:24).
40
Chapter Seven: Playboys & Playgirls
4
For the lips of a strange woman drop as an honeycomb, and her mouth is smoother than
oil: 4: But her end is bitter as wormwood, sharp as a twoedged sword. 5: Her feet go
down to death; her steps take hold on hell. 23:27: For a whore is a deep ditch; and a
strange woman is a narrow pit. 23:28: She also lieth in wait as for a prey, and increaseth
the transgressors among men (Proverbs 5:3-5; 23:27-28).
5
It is reported commonly that there is fornication among you, and such fornication as is
not so much as named among the Gentiles, that one should have his father's wife. 2: And
ye are puffed up, and have not rather mourned, that he that hath done this deed might be
taken away from among you. 3: For I verily, as absent in body, but present in spirit, have
judged already, as though I were present, concerning him that hath so done this deed, 4:
In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when ye are gathered together, and my spirit, with
the power of our Lord Jesus Christ, 5: To deliver such an one unto Satan for the destruc-
tion of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus (1 st Corinthians
5:1-5).
6
Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not
deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of
themselves with mankind, 10: Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor
extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God (1 st Corinthians 6:9-10).
7
Thou shalt not lie with mankind, as with womankind: it is abomination. 20:13: If a man
also lie with mankind, as he lieth with a woman, both of them have committed an
abomination: they shall surely be put to death; their blood shall be upon them (Leviticus
18:22; 20:13).
8
For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change
the natural use into that which is against nature: 27: And likewise also the men, leaving
the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men
41
Overcoming Lust
working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their
error which was meet (Romans 1:26-27).
9
For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from
fornication: (1st Thessalonians 4:3).
10
….Now the body is not for fornication, but for the Lord; and the Lord for the body. 18:
Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth
fornication sinneth against his own body. 19: What? know ye not that your body is the
temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your
own? 20: For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your
spirit, which are God's. (1st Corinthians 6:13, 18-20).
11
But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they
defile the man. 19: For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries,
fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies: 20: These are the things which defile a
man… (Matthew 15:18-20).
42
Chapter Eight: The Media
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Overcoming Lust
Other than these reasons, watching television is a waste
of time. According to Bernard (1985), “The average
American child, age 9-12, spends about…1340 hours per
year watching TV. By age 18 he will have spent…22,000
hours in front of the TV. The average American watches
50,000 to 75,000 hours of TV during his life, which is the
equivalent of 5 to 8 years of his life” (p. 138-139). Hav-
ing a television is not wrong if it is being used for the
right purposes, but shows that promote nudity, sexuality,
pornography, shows that take the name of the Lord in
vain, violent programs or any other inappropriate pro-
grams are incorrect. The directors, actors and those that
enjoy viewing inappropriate programs will be judged by
God. “They are fully aware of God's death penalty for
those who do these things, yet they go right ahead and
do them anyway. And, worse yet, they encourage others
to do them, too” (Romans 1:32 NLT).
3. Internet: The internet is also used in the media world
and in my estimation it is worse than television because
you can access anything without any restrictions. The in-
ternet can be a blessing or a curse. If it is being used for
educational, family or church purposes, then it is ac-
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Chapter Eight: The Media
ceptable to have it, but if it is being used for other rea-
sons such as pornography, violence, or other sinful hab-
its then it is wrong.
1
And it came to pass, when the evil spirit from God was upon Saul, that David took an
harp, and played with his hand: so Saul was refreshed, and was well, and the evil spirit
departed from him (1st Samuel 16:23).
2
Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created
all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created (Revelation 4:11).
45
Chapter Nine: The Difference between Lust & Love
Diagram 2
46
Chapter Nine: The Difference between Lust & Love
Diagram 3
The Difference
47
Overcoming Lust
lustful thoughts or actions are incorrect. If you are guilty of any
of the things mentioned above repent and change.
48
Chapter Nine: The Difference between Lust & Love
falling into the trap of lust.
49
Overcoming Lust
50
Chapter Nine: The Difference between Lust & Love
Results
51
Overcoming Lust
emotions. It is recommended that you avoid all phys-
ical contact. True love is what keeps a partnership go-
ing whereas lust will eventually grow weary and will
seek to find satisfaction elsewhere. Do everything
you can in your relationship to avoid lust even if you
are married because lust will destroy what is authen-
tic.
1
And it came to pass after this, that Absalom the son of David had a fair sister, whose
name was Tamar; and Amnon the son of David loved her. 2: And Amnon was so vexed,
that he fell sick for his sister Tamar; for she was a virgin; and Amnon thought it hard for
him to do any thing to her. 3: But Amnon had a friend, whose name was Jonadab, the son
of Shimeah David's brother: and Jonadab was a very subtil man. 4: And he said unto him,
Why art thou, being the king's son, lean from day to day? wilt thou not tell me? And
Amnon said unto him, I love Tamar, my brother Absalom's sister. 5: And Jonadab said
unto him, Lay thee down on thy bed, and make thyself sick: and when thy father cometh
52
Chapter Nine: The Difference between Lust & Love
to see thee, say unto him, I pray thee, let my sister Tamar come, and give me meat, and
dress the meat in my sight, that I may see it, and eat it at her hand. 6: So Amnon lay
down, and made himself sick: and when the king was come to see him, Amnon said unto
the king, I pray thee, let Tamar my sister come, and make me a couple of cakes in my
sight, that I may eat at her hand. 7: Then David sent home to Tamar, saying, Go now to
thy brother Amnon's house, and dress him meat. 8: So Tamar went to her brother
Amnon's house; and he was laid down. And she took flour, and kneaded it, and made
cakes in his sight, and did bake the cakes. 9: And she took a pan, and poured them out
before him; but he refused to eat. And Amnon said, Have out all men from me. And they
went out every man from him. 10: And Amnon said unto Tamar, Bring the meat into the
chamber, that I may eat of thine hand. And Tamar took the cakes which she had made,
and brought them into the chamber to Amnon her brother. 11: And when she had brought
them unto him to eat, he took hold of her, and said unto her, Come lie with me, my sister.
12: And she answered him, Nay, my brother, do not force me; for no such thing ought to
be done in Israel: do not thou this folly. 13: And I, whither shall I cause my shame to go?
and as for thee, thou shalt be as one of the fools in Israel. Now therefore, I pray thee,
speak unto the king; for he will not withhold me from thee. 14: Howbeit he would not
hearken unto her voice: but, being stronger than she, forced her, and lay with her. 15:
Then Amnon hated her exceedingly; so that the hatred wherewith he hated her was
greater than the love wherewith he had loved her. And Amnon said unto her, Arise, be
gone (2nd Samuel 13:1-15).
2
Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am
become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. 2: And though I have the gift of
prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so
that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing. 3: And though I
bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have
not charity, it profiteth me nothing. 4: Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth
not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, 5: Doth not behave itself unseemly,
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Overcoming Lust
seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; 6: Rejoiceth not in iniquity,
but rejoiceth in the truth; 7: Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things,
endureth all things. 8: Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall
fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall
vanish away. 9: For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. 10: But when that which
is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away. 11: When I was a child, I
spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I
put away childish things. 12: For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to
face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. 13: And now
abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity (1 st Corin-
thians 13:1-13).
54
Section Four: How to Overcome
Abstract of section
55
Chapter Ten: Braking the Cycle & Labeling Sin
56
Chapter Ten: Braking the Cycle & Labeling Sin
problem. You cannot fix something unless you identify that
there is a problem. We must search ourselves and find the root
of the problem. We must find the seed and label sin. Labeling
sin is not easy especially if you refuse to acknowledge your
sins. When I was seeking deliverance I had to write things
down. No matter what your flaws are you must label them.
Here are some examples that will help you in your quest for
victory.
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Overcoming Lust
giveness is mandatory whether or not one confesses pub-
licly. Repentance also includes forgiving yourself. God
loves you and He wants to set you free. Repentance is a
process and it takes time to heal and overcome.
2. Pray: After living a sinful life it is hard to pray, but I en-
courage you to pray even if it is only for five minutes at
first. Rebuild that bridge of communication with God
and be honest with Him. Overcoming is impossible
without Him in our lives.
3. Label sin: After rebuilding your relationship with God,
you must recognize your flaws, bad habits and sins.
Write everything down.
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Chapter Ten: Braking the Cycle & Labeling Sin
with God as you would communicate with a friend. Tell
him your problems and take your time to deal with each
issue on the list. When you feel an issue has been defeat-
ed cross it off the list. This may take years, day or even a
few minutes. This battle is a lifetime so fight it with per-
severance and determination.
3 Thirdly, when you have dealt with all the issues on your
list, destroy it as a sign that you have overcome. You can
rewrite the list as you overcome in one area. Keep doing
this until your list is eradicated.
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Overcoming Lust
need to change.
3. He repented, labeled sin and broke the cycle (verses 12-
13). If we want to overcome we must do as Manasseh
did. God dealt with him and as a result he repented. Sim-
ilarly this should be our desire.
4. He changed his lifestyle (verses 14-15). After being set
free we must change. This is truly braking the cycle. If
we do not change the cycle cannot be broken.
5. He repaired the alter of the Lord (verse 16). After living
a sinful life we have to rebuild our personal alter in order
to live above lust.
1
Manasseh was twelve years old when he began to reign, and he reigned fifty and five
years in Jerusalem: 2: But did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD, like unto the
abominations of the heathen, whom the LORD had cast out before the children of Israel.
3: For he built again the high places which Hezekiah his father had broken down, and he
reared up altars for Baalim, and made groves, and worshipped all the host of heaven, and
served them. 4: Also he built altars in the house of the LORD, whereof the LORD had
said, In Jerusalem shall my name be for ever. 5: And he built altars for all the host of
heaven in the two courts of the house of the LORD. 6: And he caused his children to pass
through the fire in the valley of the son of Hinnom: also he observed times, and used
enchantments, and used witchcraft, and dealt with a familiar spirit, and with wizards: he
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Chapter Ten: Braking the Cycle & Labeling Sin
wrought much evil in the sight of the LORD, to provoke him to anger. 7: And he set a
carved image, the idol which he had made, in the house of God, of which God had said to
David and to Solomon his son, In this house, and in Jerusalem, which I have chosen
before all the tribes of Israel, will I put my name for ever: 8: Neither will I any more
remove the foot of Israel from out of the land which I have appointed for your fathers; so
that they will take heed to do all that I have commanded them, according to the whole
law and the statutes and the ordinances by the hand of Moses. 9: So Manasseh made
Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem to err, and to do worse than the heathen, whom
the LORD had destroyed before the children of Israel. 10: And the LORD spake to
Manasseh, and to his people: but they would not hearken. 11: Wherefore the LORD
brought upon them the captains of the host of the king of Assyria, which took Manasseh
among the thorns, and bound him with fetters, and carried him to Babylon. 12: And when
he was in affliction, he besought the LORD his God, and humbled himself greatly before
the God of his fathers, 13: And prayed unto him: and he was intreated of him, and heard
his supplication, and brought him again to Jerusalem into his kingdom. Then Manasseh
knew that the LORD he was God. 14: Now after this he built a wall without the city of
David, on the west side of Gihon, in the valley, even to the entering in at the fish gate,
and compassed about Ophel, and raised it up a very great height, and put captains of war
in all the fenced cities of Judah. 15: And he took away the strange gods, and the idol out
of the house of the LORD, and all the altars that he had built in the mount of the house of
the LORD, and in Jerusalem, and cast them out of the city. 16: And he repaired the altar
of the LORD, and sacrificed thereon peace offerings and thank offerings, and command-
ed Judah to serve the LORD God of Israel (2nd Chronicles 33:1-16).
61
Chapter Eleven: Restoration
62
Chapter Eleven: Restoration
sin. God will restore you if you allow Him, but you must re-
store yourself by becoming a confident Christian. You are
not defeated, but victorious. You must fight daily and avoid
the places of temptation. Restoring yourself simply means
keeping on guard. In order to remain pure you must fight
and strive towards perfection. The battle is not easy, but you
can make it and you will make it in Jesus name. Guidelines
are for safety purposes and they are setup by you to help
you remain restored and at the top of the mountain. When I
was a child I played a game called, “king of the mountain.”
The rules were simple: one person would stand on the top of
a hill and the other children would all run up the hill and try
to push the person off the top of the hill to take their place.
The devil knows that you overcame and that you threw him
off the mountain, but he wants his place back. The devil
wants to be king of the mountain, but you must be vigilant
and fight. God has restored you and you have climbed the
mountain, but do not let your guard down because if you fall
it is a long climb back to the top. Have you overcome lust?
If not you can. You may say, “you do not know what I go
through.” You are right I have no clue what the battle is like
for you, but allow me to use another illustration. Hulk Ho-
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Overcoming Lust
gan a famous wrestler would take the thrashing of his life
and at times it looked liked he was going to lose, however
he bounced back hulked-up and won. You need to do the
same. You have taken a pounding and are about to lose, but
if you reach down deep and really seek God, you can get up
and be restored. God can and will use you. It may take
sometime before you get to where you want to be, but once
you are completely healed you will be where you have
longed to be. Do not let your past dictate your future. Do not
let your mistakes, mistake you. Do not let your quest for pu-
rity be tainted by the devil and most of all remember that
you can win. Sometimes you may question yourself and
create scenarios of failure, but creating scenarios of failure
will not help. There are several Scriptures that describe hope
in negative situations. For instance, “…those who stumbled
are now strong” (2nd Samuel 2:4 NLT). Lust is an obstacle,
but according to the previous verse those who stumble be-
come strong, and you become strong by eliminating doubt
and by conquering lust. In addition the Bible says, “He lifts
the poor from the dust and the needy from the garbage
dump. He sets them among princes, placing them in seats of
honor” (2nd Samuel 2:8 NLT). You may feel like garbage,
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Chapter Eleven: Restoration
but God loves garbage and He will use your faults and fail-
ures to promote you. Furthermore, He will give you a seat of
honor. The devil wants you to feel sorry for yourself, but in
reality you are blessed. In short, your obligation is to fight
so that you can be victorious over sin and death.
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Overcoming Lust
positive. Will you be free from your burden and sins? The
choice is yours.
66
Chapter Twelve: Keys to Success
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Overcoming Lust
home, he told his father that he wanted to be a
servant, but the father called him son despite his
past errors. We need to be like the prodigal son
and become servants. Yes, we are the sons of
God, but in order to be called a son of God you
must be willing to become the servant of God.
2. Key # 2 Humility: The young man repented,
which is humility. When we sin we must repent.
For instance, if you lie you repent for lying or if
you steal you repent for stealing. You must recog-
nize your errors. If you humble yourself God will
uplift you. The young man repented, which was
reconciliation between him and God. Furthermore,
he apologized to his father, which was reconcilia-
tion between him and his father. As for us we
must have a spirit of humility (repented hearts)
because this always brings blessing and prosperi-
ty.
3. Key # 3 Honesty: When the prodigal son got
home he told his father the truth. As a result his
father forgave him and restored him. If we are
honest with God, others and ourselves it will help
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Chapter Twelve: Keys to Success
us in our quest for victory.
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Overcoming Lust
and power. Finally, reading God’s Word and memoriz-
ing vital verse will help you when in the midst of a bat-
tle.
3. Accountability: It is very important to have a friend,
preferably of the same sex, whom you can be accounta-
ble to. James 5:164 encourages us to confess our sins one
to another. The person you are accountable to will help
you in your quest toward victory. When you are ac-
countable, they can encourage you, provide positive
feedback and if necessary constructive feedback. All of
which will help you during the restoration period.
4. Avoid temptations: As mentioned earlier, do not com-
promise the standard of God. Runaway from the sources
of temptation and avoid obstacles that will cause you to
fall. It is vital that you setup guidelines. For instance, if
you cannot control your internet usage install a software
that will protect you. If that does not help, cancel your
subscription or have someone who lives with you pass-
word protect your computer, thus only allowing you to
use it only when they are there.
5. Be responsible for your errors: If you fall into sin, it is
because you decided to fall. The devil is not to blame
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Chapter Twelve: Keys to Success
and you cannot blame God because God hates sin. If you
are tempted to do wrong, it is because you lost your fo-
cus and the devil seized the opportunity to tempt you. It
is foolish to blame God or the devil as it is your respon-
sibility to know how to avoid lust and sinful situations. If
you fail admit it and seek help.
6. Live a holy life and love holiness: Holiness starts on the
inside and is made manifest on the outside. It is very im-
portant to deal with the heart so that the inside can be
transformed and reflected outwardly. If we draw atten-
tion to ourselves, we are causing others to defile them-
selves inwardly and outwardly by thinking or doing
lustful things. Not only that, but our dress code speaks
volumes of who we really are. We must love and cherish
the true standard of God. Please refer to Understanding
the Scriptures for details on holiness.
7. One day at a time: A battle is never won in a day.
Overcoming takes time and effort. A baby does not learn
how to walk immediately, but with time and practice
they master the art of walking. Similarly is the battle of
overcoming.
8. Understand temptation: The world is full of pictures,
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Overcoming Lust
movies, songs and cultural acceptance of lust with mil-
lions of people struggling with various addictions. To
avoid failure, you must find other things to occupy your
mind in order to rise above lust. Reading the Bible, pray-
ing, going to the gym, calling a friend, listening to gospel
music are just some of the ways you can occupy your
mind. Praying is the most important as it strengthens you
to deal with whatever may arise.
9. Go to counseling: Many Christians do not believe in
counseling, however it is sometimes necessary to talk to
a professional as most addictive behaviors stem from
emotional distress. The counselor will be able to help
you identify your strengths and weaknesses and will be
able to help you develop a plan of action. Seeing a coun-
selor will facilitate your quest towards victory. A coun-
selor can help you come to terms with issues and help
you learn various techniques to deal with your issues.
10.Join a group: Several years ago when I was dealing
with my issues, I started a men’s fellowship in which we
would pray and help each other. Remember there is safe-
ty and comfort in numbers (Proverbs 11:145).
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Chapter Twelve: Keys to Success
1
And he said, A certain man had two sons: 12: And the younger of them said to his
father, Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth to me. And he divided unto them
his living. 13: And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took
his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living. 14: And
when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land; and he began to be in
want. 15: And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him
into his fields to feed swine. 16: And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks
that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him. 17: And when he came to himself, he
said, How many hired servants of my father's have bread enough and to spare, and I
perish with hunger! 18: I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I
73
Overcoming Lust
have sinned against heaven, and before thee, 19: And am no more worthy to be called thy
son: make me as one of thy hired servants. 20: And he arose, and came to his father. But
when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and
fell on his neck, and kissed him. 21: And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned
against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son. 22: But the
father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on
his hand, and shoes on his feet: 23: And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us
eat, and be merry: 24: For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is
found. And they began to be merry (Luke 15:11-24).
2
But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall
be added unto you (Matthew 6:33).
3
Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world,
the love of the Father is not in him. 16: For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh,
and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world (1st
John 2:15-16).
4
Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed.
The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much (James 5:16).
5
Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety
(Proverbs 11:14).
6
And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto
death, even the death of the cross (Philippians 2:8).
74
Epilogue
75
Overcoming Lust
big or small are conquerable despite the length of time you
have been battling it. Success comes to those who try. For
instance, it took me fourteen years to obtain my high school
diploma and seven years for my college degree. Because I was
determined I reached my goals. If you are determined, you can
and will reach your goal in Jesus name.
76
Epilogue
He would help us (2nd Chronicles 7:14). If He helped me He
can help you too. God is a healer and He knows how to fix
horrible situations.
77
References
78
Other Publications
79