The cost of a glimpse

I am currently employed as a software engineer in an IT company. Despite my best efforts, I find myself unable to resist the temptation of watching blue movies on my phone. This sinful habit consumes hours of my time, leaving me unable to focus on my work, which has led to a significant decline in my performance. Consequently, my job is now at risk. My parents are unaware of this struggle. I’m caught in a cycle of immoral cravings, work issues, and a guilty conscience. I’m deeply entangled in these problems. Please guide me on how to break free from this. – Selva, Chitoor

Dear Brother Selva, I understand your pain and the torment you are experiencing. The agony of doing what you detest instead of what you desire is evident. Selva, you can climb out of any abyss if you really want to. It’s the same with this wicked bondage. Despite your distress, this habit ensnares you in four stages

Slip

An initial misstep. If you had managed to control it at the initial stage or cried out for divine help, you could have escaped the sin.

Symptom

It becomes a recurring habit.

Sin

It takes root as a sin.

Stronghold

It establishes itself as a permanent stronghold in your life.

Only once we’ve gone through all of these phases does sin settle in permanently. We can initially overcome sin in our thoughts, but when we allow it to infiltrate our minds, we tend to slip back. Over time, this slip becomes habitual, and the thought of viewing inappropriate content frequently arises. Eventually, it takes hold as a sin and, in the end, impairs us.

How to overcome this sin?

Avoid solitary moments. Whenever possible, try to be in a group or with friends.
Resolve not to use your phone for any purpose after 9:30 PM and switch it off.
Avoid reading all messages and watching videos on WhatsApp during the day, as these can affect your thoughts.
Even when reading newspapers, try to avoid sections that might trigger inappropriate thoughts. Even small images and snippets can create unnecessary thoughts in your mind.
While travelling in a vehicle or bus, avoid looking around aimlessly. Keep your eyes focused and your thoughts will stay aligned.
Above all, pray for your eyes and thoughts. God will help you overcome these lustful thoughts. The devil knows how to bring you down in solitude, but Jesus can protect you and grant you victory in the same situation.

Quote verses from the Bible and gain victory

For your eyes

The eye is the lamp of the body (Matt. 6:22-23; 5:28)

I made a covenant with my eyes (Job 31:1)

For your heart

Guard your heart with all diligence (Prov. 4:23)

For your mind

We take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ (2 Cor. 10:5)

Declare these verses aloud and pray to gain victory over this sin. The Bible clearly states, “He who conceals his sins does not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy” (Prov. 28:13).

Selva, God will grant you a permanent and lasting deliverance. Embrace the miraculous deliverance that the Lord provides, and continue to work for Him. When you overcome sin and live a holy life, your life will be filled with elevations and victories instead of chaos. Warmest regards on your path to prosperity and freedom! May God’s grace be with you!