Overcoming Pornography with Wisdom from Proverbs - Part 1

IntroductionThis month, I’m sharing a two-part series from the book of Proverbs called Overcoming Pornography with Wisdom from Proverbs. While Proverbs doesn’t use the word pornography, it paints a vivid picture of lust, temptation, and how to overcome it. Wisdom cries out to us (Proverbs 2:10-19), showing that God provides a way of escape. These posts are written to strengthen marriages, guard our hearts, and help us walk in integrity before God. Here is Part 1.

We must always remember to trust in the LORD, Proverbs 3:5-8. I don’t need to share statistics about pornography. We’ve seen the devastation it causes in our lives, marriages, pulpits, and even most recently with a brother who had to be withdrawn from.

Men and women of all ages are susceptible. It’s easy to say, “I would never…” but Proverbs 16:18 reminds us, “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before stumbling.” Proverbs vividly portrays temptation, lust, and the dangers of giving in. Wisdom cries out to us, giving us a way of escape.

1. Rejoice in God’s Design for Marriage

The Proverbs remind us of the joy and intimacy between a husband and wife.

• Proverbs 5:15-20: “Drink water from your own cistern…” This is God’s design for sexual intimacy—pure, holy, and to be enjoyed in marriage. Pornography distorts intimacy, but God’s way builds trust and joy.

• Proverbs 18:22: “He who finds a wife finds a good thing…” Marriage is a blessing.

• Proverbs 19:14: Marriage is a gift from the LORD.

Pornography cheapens God’s design, but rejoicing in your spouse protects against it.

2. Remember God Sees

Pornography thrives in secrecy and lies, but there is no hiding from God.

• Proverbs 15:3: “The eyes of the LORD are in every place, watching the evil and the good.”

He sees the bad, but He also sees the good when we walk in integrity. Remembering His watchful eyes helps us make holy choices.

3. Recognize the Danger of Sexual Sin

Proverbs pull no punches about the consequences.

• Proverbs 5:3-14 describes the “lips of an adulteress.”  The application extends to pornography—what seems sweet turns bitter. It promises pleasure but brings shame, guilt, broken families, and ruined ministries.

• Proverbs 7:21-23 shows how young men are drawn in, unaware of the deadly consequences.

• Proverbs 22:14 reminds us of sin’s true end.

Pornography always over-promises and under-delivers. We must see it for what it really is—deadly.

Conclusion Pornography is not new. It’s just a modern version of an ancient temptation. But God’s wisdom shows us the path to freedom: rejoice in marriage, remember God sees, and recognize the true danger.