Do you have a problem?

[lizzie]

"It cant happen to me!"

Ever tell yourself that?

Or this one > "thats for other people, im different!"

Im studying Genesis for the last couple months, and in the study of Abraham and Lot, there was a striking story there that reminded me that we should never assume that we are too 'above' anything, lest we be overtaken and overcome.

The 'it cant happen to me' mentality is a dangerous ground to walk on as it can cause you to let your guard down and in doing so u become fair game.

Every addiction starts somewhere. Every mansion begins with one single concrete block being laid down.

Therefore even if we are engaging in 'casual' viewing of pornography or other sexual behaviours that we know are unrighteous, we need to be aware that this is flirting with disaster.

So how does one know if they have a sexual addiction problem or are participating in activities that can cause them to fall into bondage?

For many we feel that shame and guilt afterwards and the conviction of the Holy Spirit, who makes it clear that our actions are not pleasing to the Lord.

But sometimes the progression is so subtle that many may not realize they have a problem until they are knee deep in it.

There are many places online that one can go to take self assement tests and these are just a few of the questions asked, which if answered honestly should give us a good indication of whether we have a problem, or the beginning stages of a problem and need to be taking steps to deal with it.

Does sex preoccupy much of your thinking?

Does your sexual behavior often leave you feeling anxious, guilty or ashamed?

Specifically, is it hard for you to distance yourself from the common routine of viewing sexually related websites?

Is your sexual behaviour negatively affecting your relationship with God?

Do you fantasize or think about sex so often that it interferes with other areas your life such as work and relationships with family and friends?

Do you indulge in pornography in increasing periods of time and increasing amounts?

Do you regularly purchase or read romantic novels,sexually explicit magazines or literature online?

Do you find yourself attempting to hide your sexual behavior from close family and friends?

Do you believe casual or anonymous sex has kept you from having more long-term intimate relationships?

In the past, have you made a commitment to stop a specific sexual habit and failed to honor that commitment?

Could your sexual behavior or habits result in you being arrested or having legal problems?


So those are just a few questions, if anyone else has any others to add please do.