Pray For Self Control – 1 Corinthians 9:27

I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. 
1 Corinthians 9:27

Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path. 
Psalm 119:105

If you’re reading this, chances are this isn’t the first time you’ve decided to quit pornography. You’ve likely made the decision before, only to find yourself falling back into the habit, followed by regret and a renewed desire to break free.

At the heart of this struggle is self control. You may genuinely want to let go of this addiction, but the weakness of the flesh often overpowers your will. This is why self-control is essential.

Self-control doesn’t mean you will never feel the urge to watch pornography again. It means that even when temptation arises, you will have the discipline to resist it. This is why you must pray for self-control.

You have more control over your body than you realise. With discipline and determination, you can train yourself to reject lustful desires. Immerse yourself in God’s word and strengthen your spirit through prayer, so that no matter how strong the temptation feels, you will have the strength to stand firm.

Below is a prayer you can use as a guide when praying for self control from pornography addiction, along with some Bible verses to meditate on as you pray.

Prayer for self control

Dear Lord,
I pray for self-control in the face of temptation. Help me to discipline my body and be able to train my body to do things that bring honour to your Holy name. 
When evil urges arise, help me to quash them. When evil voices come, grant me the strength to ignore them. Let Your Word be my strength and my light, guiding me through darkness. Lead me with Your grace, and when my strength fails, deliver me. 
When there seems to be no way to run, be my refuge. When I feel I’m about to fall, be my rock. Keep me rooted in You, and help me hold firm to Your promises, that this demonic force may not destroy me.
Amen

Bible verses to meditate on as you pray

Proverbs 25:28

Like a city whose walls are broken through, is a person who lacks self-control.

This verse reminds us of the importance of self-control and the consequences of giving in to temptation. Just as a city with weak defenses is vulnerable to attacks, a person without self-control is vulnerable to the dangers of addiction. By strengthening our self-control, we can protect ourselves from the harmful effects of pornography.

1 Thessalonians 4:3-5

It is God’s will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality; that each of you should learn to control your own body in a way that is holy and honorable, not in passionate lust like the pagans, who do not know God.

This verse emphasises the importance of self-control in the life of a believer. If we claim to know God, we must strive to live in a way that honours Him, upholding holiness and resisting desires that lead us away from His will.

Romans 13:14

Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh.

By focusing on Jesus and living in His light, we can resist the urges of the flesh, including the temptation to engage in pornography. When we allow Christ to fill our minds and hearts, we can find strength to overcome our struggles and live in obedience to His will.

Galatians 5:16

 So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.

Walking in the Spirit can help us resist the temptations of the flesh, including pornography. By seeking guidance and strength from the Holy Spirit, we can overcome our struggles and live in alignment with God’s commands. By relying on the power of the Spirit, we can find victory over our addiction and experience true freedom in Christ.

Colossians 3:5

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

This verse emphasizes the need to put away sinful desires and focus on righteousness. It challenges us to actively fight against the desires of our flesh and instead pursue the things that are pleasing to God. By turning away from sinful behaviour and focusing on what is good and pure, we can break free from the grip of pornography addiction.

Ephesians 5:3

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

This verse reminds us of the importance of keeping ourselves pure and free from immorality. It encourages us to strive for holiness and righteousness in all areas of our lives, including our thoughts and actions. By living a life free from sexual immorality and impurity, we can honour God and avoid falling into the trap of pornography addiction.

When struggling with pornography addiction, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed and hopeless. But remember that with God’s help and the power of His Word, you can find the strength and self-control to overcome this sin.

By meditating on these Bible verses and seeking God’s guidance and wisdom, you can break free from the chains of pornography addiction and live a life that is pleasing to Him. Trust in God’s love and grace, and He will give you the strength you need to overcome this struggle.