The Healing Power of the Gospel

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: The Healing Power of the Gospel

Course: Freedom From Pornography

Speakers: Ryan Miller

Healing Through God's Love

As we explore healing through relationships, we cannot neglect our relationship with God. Often, we run from Him, believing He sees us with condemnation. But the truth of the Gospel reveals a different picture.

God's View: A Father's Joyful Embrace

Do you know what the scriptures say in Psalm 67? 'May God be gracious to us and bless us and make his face shine upon us.' That phrase, 'make his face shine upon us,' is an ancient Hebrew expression for trying to make a baby laugh. I have two young children, and I'll do anything to make them laugh because I love them. This is how God sees us, even in our struggles with pornography, a source of deep shame.

The Enemy's Accusation and God's Defense

We need to understand the enemy's role and how God meets us. The enemy is an accuser. In Zechariah 3, we see a powerful image: Joshua, the high priest, standing in the Holy of Holies, covered in filth. This was a nightmare vision, symbolizing our unworthiness. Satan, the prosecuting attorney, accuses Joshua, but then something extraordinary happens.

The Angel of the Lord, the pre-incarnate Christ, steps down from the judgment seat. He rebukes Satan and removes Joshua's filthy garments, clothing him in pure white linens. This reveals how God sees us at our worst moments. He smiles, eager to impart His joy, and defends us against the accuser.

God's Patient Love

I once helped tame wild mustangs. The first step was gaining acknowledgment. As the horse ran in fear, we patiently pursued it until it looked at us, then we backed away, lowering our energy. This established trust.

Similarly, our relationship with God begins with a look. Do you see condemnation or joy? Jesus dealt with your sin on the cross, making it possible to approach the throne of grace with boldness.

Clothed in Christ's Righteousness

When people say porn is empowering, it’s frustrating. If porn were empowering, why would so many performers commit suicide or contract HIV? Why are the movie titles degrading? Porn isn't empowering; it’s degrading. Many performers have bought the lie that it gives them freedom, but you’re a slave to whatever controls you, whether it's porn or money.

Clothed in Christ's Righteousness

We can come as we are, knowing we'll be met by a Savior who clothes us in pure white linens. He bore our shame, and when He said, 'It is finished,' He spoke of our sin and shame. We can approach our heavenly Father, knowing He awaits us with joy.

Conclusion

Ultimately, healing from the struggle with pornography requires more than just addressing the symptoms. It demands a deep, transformative encounter with the love of God. By understanding His heart, His unwavering grace, and His relentless pursuit of our wholeness, we can begin to dismantle the lies that bind us. Embrace this truth: God sees you with joy, He defends you against accusation, and He offers you a path to freedom. Allow His love to be the foundation upon which you build your journey to healing.

 

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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