Help for those struggling with sexual sins–Step3: Prepare for the battle with Scripture

Whenever I counsel people who are struggling with lustful thoughts, I will ask the question, “What Biblical passages have you memorized to help you with the temptation?” In 20 years of speaking to men about this struggle I have yet to meet the man who has pulled from his spiritual arsenal even one memorized verse on sexual temptation.

While it is true that the temptations to sexual immorality are more readily available than ever before, it is equally true that we are not effectively using God’s Word to parry the lies that our fleshly desires speak to us about this sin.

When Jesus was tempted in the wilderness. He repeatedly answered with God’s Word. He had the right verse, and he applied it at the right time ( http://philmoser.com/2011/12/05/just-say-no-to-temptation-with-the-scripture-2/).

One of the most helpful truths for me personally has been to memorize verses that combat the lie of the temptation with truth. For example, one of the reoccurring lies with sexual sins of the 21st century is, No one will ever know what you are about to do. Go ahead—No one is watching.

But the truth is found in Hebrews 4:13, 

And no creature is hidden from his sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must give account.

When I hear temptation’s lie in my head, I answer with the memorized portion of Scripture. Sometimes there is a mental argument or two taking place in my mind, but the Scripture brings clarity to the deceitfulness of the temptation, and clears my head to make the right choice.

If you would like to get started with developing your scriptural arsenal, we have developed a lie/truth memory verse pack ( BHSS – All Cards on one Sheet). Learn these verses. They are your lifeline to clear thinking when it comes to sexual temptation.