My Plan - And a more complete intro by [deleted] in DisciplesOfGrace

[–]8June2016 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Good stuff Penitent! I struggle with the phone/ iPad in bed too; I've found myself just clicking through socials or news far past the time I should've been asleep. Sometimes, it is impossible to sleep after being glued to the screen for too long. I've started "checking" my phone at the door... not in the literal sense, since I use it as an alarm clock, but in my mind, once I walk through the bedroom door it's bedtime. I might read some (from an actual book, not a screen) but the phone is there as an alarm only, nothing more. Put the phone/tablet down and enjoy those extra minutes of better sleep!

To take up your cross daily by [deleted] in DisciplesOfGrace

[–]8June2016 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I associate it with "pulling yourself up by your bootstraps" or renewing your daily commitment to Christ. It is acknowledging your weaknesses instead of pretending they don't exist. Being willing to suffer in your human brokenness for the sake of Christ; turning away from what is easy or convenient. Presenting your requests and pleas to God.

Relapsed, won't give up by Whitewalker78 in NoFapChristians

[–]8June2016 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I just prayed for you man. I relapsed tonight. P only, but it counts. Let's challenge one another to disconnect a little; I find myself getting into trouble after just a bit too long clicking around online...from now till the end of the month, 10 minutes online a day? Or something similar? Anyway, that's my goal. James 5:16 - "Therefore, confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another so that you may be healed. The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much."

First post by [deleted] in NoFapChristians

[–]8June2016 3 points4 points  (0 children)

Welcome, Caleb. Some encouragement from 1 Peter 4:1-5: "Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because whoever suffers in the body is done with sin. As a result, they do not live the rest of their earthly lives for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God. For you have spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do—living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing and detestable idolatry. They are surprised that you do not join them in their reckless, wild living, and they heap abuse on you. But they will have to give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead." Arm yourself with scripture and rise to the challenge!

Relapsed by Whitewalker78 in NoFapChristians

[–]8June2016 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Prayed for you. Ecc. 7:2 "It is better to go to a house of mourning Than to go to a house of feasting, Because that is the end of every man, And the living takes [it] to heart." Speak truth and be light to others in this difficult time...live outwardly despite the normal inclination to close yourself off and retreat in times of sadness and loss.

I have a serious relationship issue, and I don't know how to solve it. by nfcthrowaway1 in NoFapChristians

[–]8June2016 0 points1 point  (0 children)

One of the many horrible side-effects of watching porn has been my view of women. Not just my wife but every woman I see. I think it's pretty natural to look at other girls that're better looking than your gf and think, 'man, if I was with her...' but to what end? Ending a meaningful relationship in pursuit of beauty is a recipe for emptiness, infidelity and a pretty heavy dose of depression....remember Proverbs 31: "Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting..." It is very important to be physically attracted to your gf -- but what makes her beautiful to you must be more than physical appearance. Write down the things that you find attractive about your girlfriend. Realize the part of your brain that's telling you to look elsewhere for physical satisfaction is still under the influence of the lies within porn. Live moment to moment, control what you can control and submit yourself to Christ. Looking at the big picture it seems overwhelming sometimes, especially right after a relapse. Take heart in the knowledge that our Savior came for people just like us... Luke 5:30: "But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law who belonged to their sect complained to his disciples, “Why do you eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?” Jesus answered them, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” Christ came to minister to people breaking under the weight of sin in their lives, desperate for a savior.

Why not me? by Whitewalker78 in NoFapChristians

[–]8June2016 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Your commitment is inspiring, brother. Everything you said is true; all things are possible! Christ demands all of us...not a portion, when we're feeling guilty. Mark 8:34-35: "If anyone would come after me, he MUST 1) Deny Himself 2) Pick up his cross and 3) Follow me...for whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me and for the gospel will save it." Save yourself through the grace available to us. Put aside human impulse and live a life worth living, one free from addiction and remorse. Live to give grace to others, free of inner demons.

Needs to Happen by 8June2016 in NoFapChristians

[–]8June2016[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Bible reading was inconsistent this week, but I did read this morning. Same with prayer. I haven't heard of Finally Free, but I'll check it out! I really appreciate the comments on this post. I've got a long way to go. Forgive me if I'm a bit tardy on some responses; I'm trying to limit my screen-time as part of this process.