Webster’s Dictionary says lust is a strong feeling of sexual desire. Our culture is saturated with those things that encourage and promote lust in people. Movies, television, video games and all forms of advertisement live by the motto: “sex sells.” Though men may be more easily tempted to lust, surveys reveal that many women also struggle with this sin.

Scriptures
Colossians 3:5; 2 Samuel 5:13, 11:1-27; Job 31:1; Proverbs 28:13; Ezekiel 18:4; 1 Corinthians 10:12-13

Verse
Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires, and greed, which is idolatry. Colossians 3:5 NIV

Thought
When it comes to sexual lust, many of us are failing because we’re naïve to the power of lust. We treat it like some rubber snake when it’s a King Cobra. Unless we gain a Biblical understanding of its power it will inflict a great deal of pain on us and on those we love. Many of us grossly underestimate the reality and power of Satan not realizing that he is out to destroy our families, our Christian witness and our lives. We must be ever vigilant against the giant of lust and stand strong and seek the power of the Holy Spirit in this fight.

Questions
When does the temptation to entertain lustful thoughts become sin? How do your protect yourself against the power of lust? How does lust block our view of God? How can a person be open and honest about their struggles with lust? What are some things you have done to “protect” yourself from lustful enticements?

Response
Doing these things can help us defeat lust in our lives: Accountability-who holds you accountable with this issue? Cut off the sources-we must get rid of those things that make it easier for us to fall into lust. Count the cost-is my lust worth hurting the ones I love the most in this life? Keep your walk with God fresh and growing-make sure your Christianity isn’t just nominal and lukewarm but growing and maturing.

Prayer Dear Jesus, I need your help to live a pure and holy life in the midst of the sexual sin in our world. I know that Satan wants to destroy me and my family through lust. I ask you to empower me by your Holy Spirit to stand strong against temptation and lustful thoughts. I know that your Word promises me that I can do everything through Christ who strengthens me. Thank you, Jesus, for helping me in this fight. Amen.