Breaking the Addiction-Shame Cycle

Course Cut-OutFreedom From Pornogrpahy
Written By Austin Cavaliere

If you need help seeing Jesus in the middle of your struggle, or just feel like you are stuck, ready to move into growth and healing, connect with a Christian coach.

Excerpt: Breaking the Addiction-Shame Cycle

Course: Freedom From Pornography

Speakers: Brittni De La Mora

Breaking Free from Shame

I remember vividly the shame I felt after leaving the porn industry and attending church. It was a stark contrast to my previous openness. I thought, 'Everyone here is perfect. They'll reject me if they know my past.' These lies fueled my isolation.

The Revelation: Jesus's Sacrifice and Your Freedom

Then, an organization asked me to share my story. I envisioned it being shown at porn conventions, hoping to help others escape. Instead, it went viral on YouTube. I was mortified, convinced my church would discover my past.

In my distress, I questioned God. But the Holy Spirit calmed me, asking me to picture Jesus on the cross, His suffering for me. 'Was that enough?' He asked. 'Then why are you ashamed of what Jesus died for? Go and be set free.'

The Power of Transparency

Those words transformed me. I began sharing my past with everyone at church, from parking lot attendants to greeters. I dove headfirst into transparency.

I share this because many of you battle shame. Shame is Satan's tool to isolate you, preventing conversations that can lead to healing. Alone, you're vulnerable to the enemy's lies, convincing you that you're a loser, that you'll never escape addiction.

But transparency silences the enemy. He can't hold you captive with shame when you've already shared your struggle.

Rising After Falling

If you're battling shame, remember Jesus's sacrifice. It was more than enough. He knows your struggle. Proverbs 24:16 reminds us, 'Though the righteous fall seven times, they rise again.' Falling is part of the journey. The key is getting back up.

Share Your Struggle

I encourage you to be transparent. Like Nike says, 'Just do it.' Open up and tell someone you're struggling. Sharing breaks the power of shame.

Conclusion: Finding Freedom in Vulnerability

Overcoming pornography isn't just about stopping a behavior; it's about finding freedom from the shame that binds you. Transparency is a powerful weapon against the enemy's lies. By sharing your struggle, you step into the light, where healing and restoration are possible. Embrace vulnerability and experience the freedom that comes from truth

 

If you like the content, you can continue in a few different ways…

  • 1) See the outline below and check out other sections from the FFP course.

  • 2) Take the full small group course to your church community! The first course your church runs is free! Reach out to us here to learn how.

  • 3) Connect with a Share The Struggle Coach for one-on-one support. Let’s face it, some of us have tried kicking this thing, and we’ve had no luck. It’s time to start looking toward forms of support that can help us see and feel the beautiful life God has in store for us.

 

Freedom From Pornography

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Freedom From Pornography 〰️

Part 1: Stories of Struggle

Session 1: What is the Struggle?

Session 2: The People

Part 2: The Roots of Dependency versus Design

Session 3: How Does This Dependency Begin?

Session 4: Biblical Roots

Part 3: Reconnecting and Reattaching

Session 5: Reconnecting With An Authentic God

Session 6: Working On Self

Session 7: Working With Others

Session 8: Healing With A Spouse

 

Share The Struggle Courses

Share the Struggle Courses are topical expert led video courses to help you understand life’s greatest struggles and provide you with tools for navigating them. Moreover, STS courses create a space for you to connect with others struggling with similar things, experience belonging, and encounter God’s nearness in a place of wilderness in your life (pain, confusion, healing journey). Want to start a group at your church? Reach out to us here to learn how.

 

What Share The Struggle Believes

Here at Share The Struggle we believe Jesus is present with us in the middle of our pain and mess, and it is in that place that we often experience and encounter Jesus most deeply.

We understand the unique challenges faced by Christians dealing with mental health. Our mission is to bridge the gap between faith and mental health support, providing a platform where individuals can find resources, coaching support and guidance, all tailored to their spiritual life and emotional needs.

We invite you to explore our resources, share your journey, and find the support you need to overcome the struggles you face.

Austin Cavaliere
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