The Heart of the Matter: Finding Redemption in a Sexually Broken World
In our struggle with sexual sin, we often point fingers at the world around us. We blame the culture, the media, and the temptations that seem to lurk around every corner. But the truth is, our biggest problem lies within. Our hearts are the source of our greatest struggles, and it’s only by confronting this reality that we can find true redemption.
The Evangelical Church’s Lack of Honesty
The evangelical church has often lacked honesty and integrity when it comes to addressing sexual sin. We’ve talked about the shocking degradation of the surrounding culture, but we’ve failed to acknowledge the true condition of our own hearts. We’ve pointed to the Internet, the fashion industry, and the entertainment world as the sources of our problems, but we’ve neglected to examine our own desires and motivations.
The Importance of Personal Confession
Change doesn’t begin with cultural analysis or pointing fingers at others. It begins with personal confession. We must acknowledge that our behavior reveals more about us than about our situation or relationships. We must take responsibility for our actions and seek the help we desperately need.
A Cry for Mercy
In Psalm 51, David cries out for mercy and forgiveness. He acknowledges his transgressions and asks God to blot them out. He recognizes that his sin is a heart issue, and he begs God to create a clean heart within him. This is the kind of prayer we need to pray when struggling with sexual sin. We need to cry out for mercy, acknowledging our own weakness and seeking God’s strength.
The Transformation of the Heart
Our only hope for personal purity and defense against cultural insanity is found in the transformation of our hearts. We need something more than rules and regulations; we need a deep-seated change that comes from within. This is only possible through the power of the gospel, which redeems and transforms us from the inside out.
A Call to Prayer
Won’t you stop right now and cry out for the same grace that David cried out for? You need it just as much as he did, whether or not you admit it to yourself. Take a moment to pray, asking God to create a clean heart within you and to transform your life from the inside out.
Additional Articles in the How to Pray Series
- How to Pray When You’re Feeling Depressed
- How to Pray for Unbelieving Family Members
- How to Pray When You Hate Your Job
- How to Pray in Spiritual Warfare
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