Avoiding Pornography: Hear No Evil, See No Evil!

In a world filled with gadgets, gizmos, and TikTok videos, it’s easy to forget that not everything on the internet is sunshine and rainbows.

While the internet offers a treasure trove of information and entertainment, many occasionally stumble upon its dark and treacherous realm.

No, it’s not a new blockbuster movie.

It’s something far more perilous lurking on our screens.

Pornography!

The Elephant in The Room

I like to describe pornography as the naughty cousin of technology; as the sneakiest digital candy lying in wait as a trap for curious minds and wandering eyes.

It is a web of explicit and often graphic content, designed to tantalize and entice.

A realm where reality becomes distorted, and what you see isn’t always what you get.

It can cleverly masquerade itself as innocent pop-up ads or clickbait, luring you in when you least expect it.

As curiosity grows, it feels like sinking into quicksand; each click pulls one deeper into the world of pornography, gradually entangling them until the line between truth, fascination, and addiction blurs.

The Slippery Slope with Pornography

Pornography can be as tempting as a mouthwatering shawarma that’s hard to resist.

When you take your first bite, the flavors burst in your mouth, the mix of savory ingredients feels amazing, delighting your taste buds.

It’s a sensation that makes you crave another bite, then another, until you’ve finished the whole wrap before you realize it.

Before long, you find yourself becoming a regular at that cozy shawarma spot, almost like a daily ritual.

It’s not your fault; those dopamine hits are like tiny applause for your taste buds, and who can resist applause?

This is exactly how pornography can often feel – addictive!

Initially seeming harmless, as you descend deeper, it becomes increasingly difficult to escape.

Studies indicate that pornography can rewire your brain, making it harder to find joy in life’s simpler pleasures without it.

It’s often associated with behaviors like masturbation, sexual assault, and unconventional sexual preferences.

Although not everyone who dips their toes into the ocean of pornography ends up swimming in it, it is still offensive to God.

Thou Shall Not Netflix and Chill with Sin!

Ah! Sin, as John puts it, comes in three ways.

The Lust of the Flesh,” akin to an endless buffet of desires; “The Lust of the Eyes,” resembling a tempting catalog; and “The Pride of Life,” where one sees themselves as the star of their own show.

For the world offers only the lust for physical pleasure, the lust for everything we see, and pride in our possessions. These are not from the Father. They are from this evil world.

1 John 2:16

Pornography is a sin and should not be entertained. It must be confessed, repented of, and overcome.

Its essence lies in lusting within the mind.

Engaging with porn stirs up impure thoughts and fantasies, adding chaos to one’s moral framework.

Relationships can also suffer, burdened by unrealistic expectations, objectification, and trust issues.

Oh, and there’s more!

Its addictive pull is like trying to quit your favorite snack—it’s hard to stop once you start!

Consuming attention and time, pornography can make people prioritize it over other aspects of life and relationships, contrary to the principle of not being mastered by anything.

You may say, “I am allowed to do anything.” But I reply, “Not everything is good for you.” And even though “I am allowed to do anything,” I must not become a slave to anything.

1 Corinthians 6:12

Spiritually, it leads to guilt, shame, and a disconnect from faith, hindering growth and communion with God.

Academically, financially, and professionally, it can cause setbacks, disappointments, and restrictions.

And let’s not forget about digital footprints.

Think of them as the virtual traces that can be linked back to your identity.

If someone gets their hands on them, it can compromise your privacy, leading to embarrassment, blackmail, or personal information exposure.

Believe me, you don’t want that!

Choosing Light Over Darkness

The world today often glamorizes activities and content that, as Christians, we are called to avoid.

While society may find nothing wrong with pornography, we are urged to walk a different path—one illuminated by love, purity, and respect for ourselves and others.

Our lives are meant to reflect the values taught by Jesus.

Purity isn’t just about avoiding certain behaviours; it’s about aligning our hearts and minds with God’s will.

By resisting the temptation of pornography, we exercise control over our thoughts and actions.

This self-control isn’t merely about saying “no” to certain behaviors; it’s about saying “yes” to the right thing.

Protecting Our Hearts

Our hearts are the core of our being, and what we expose them to has a profound impact on our spiritual health.

By avoiding pornography, we guard our hearts against the corruption that such content can bring.

This protection isn’t just about safeguarding ourselves; it’s about preserving our ability to love and respect others fully and genuinely.

Moreover, our actions have the power to influence those around us.

By choosing light over darkness, we encourage fellow Christians to make similar choices, upholding godly values.

Temptation is undoubtedly a part of life, but how we respond to it defines our character.

Honoring God with Our Choices

Every choice we make reflects our values and beliefs.

When we choose to stay away from pornography, we honor God by showing that we value His teachings above societal norms.

This act of respect for God also serves as a testament to our faith, illustrating our commitment to living according to His word.

Our choices matter, and living a life guided by godly principles pays off.

So, today stand your ground and be intentional to hear no evil and see no evil.