Overcoming Pornography with Wisdom from Proverbs - Part 2

In our last study, we considered Proverbs’ wisdom on God’s design for marriage, remembering that He sees, and recognizing the dangers of sexual sin. In this post, we’ll move forward with practical ways Proverbs teaches us to guard our hearts, avoid temptation, and replace sin with righteousness.

1.    Guard Your Heart and Mind

Pornography begins in the heart before it manifests in action.

• Proverbs 4:23: “Watch over your heart with all diligence, for from it flow the springs of life.”

• Proverbs 26:24-25 warns against disguising what’s in the heart.

We must protect our thought life: limit access, avoid triggers, and fill our hearts with God’s word.

 2. Avoid Tempting Situations

Wisdom teaches us to flee, not flirt with temptation.

• Proverbs 5:8: “Keep your way far from her…”

• Proverbs 22:3: The prudent avoid danger; the naïve suffer for it.

Guardrails, accountability, and planning ahead are essential. Don’t wait until temptation knocks—decide in advance to avoid the door.

3. Confess and Repent

• Proverbs 28:13: “He who conceals his transgression will not prosper, but he who confesses and forsakes them will find compassion.”

Pornography brings secrets, but God offers mercy and forgiveness. Confession is humbling, but it is also healing. Satan wants us to believe we can’t be forgiven, but God promises compassion to those who confess and forsake.

4. Pursue Discipline and Self-Control

• Proverbs 25:28: “Like a city that is broken into and without walls is a man who has no control of his spirit.”

• Proverbs 6:27-28 warns that playing with lust will burn us.

Pornography thrives where there’s no self-control. Discipline—through prayer, fasting, and godly habits—rebuilds our defenses.

5. Seek Accountability and Counsel

• Proverbs 27:17: “Iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.”

We need brothers and sisters who will challenge us, encourage us, and hold us accountable. There’s strength in numbers.

6. Replace Sin with Righteous Desires

Pornography is counterfeit pleasure. God’s wisdom brings real joy.

• Proverbs 16:17, 21:17, 24:5 remind us that life, strength, and joy come from walking in righteousness.

Don’t just say “No” to porn—say “Yes” to something greater: God’s word, service, love, and wisdom.

Conclusion

Pornography is one of the enemy’s most deceptive traps—it promises sweetness but delivers bitterness. Yet God’s word in Proverbs gives us the wisdom to fight back. Rejoicing in His design for marriage, guarding our hearts, avoiding temptation, confessing sin, and replacing counterfeit pleasures with true joy all lead to freedom.