There are many pivotal moments in history, such moments that change the trajectory of mankind. An event occurs, and the course of of the world is forever changed. Some of those events are stones of remembrance because they are etched in our history and we see the dramatic shift that follows.
Then, there are those events that occur that create a seismic shift in the way life is lived and we don’t even realize their relevance, until much later.
In 1953, Hugh Hefner introduced Playboy magazine. Entering on the scene was so much more than a monthly publication of nude women. this was a shift of gigantic proportions, a gateway into the pornography world that would explode leaving shattered lives, damaged minds and sexual brokenness of all kinds.
Was that his mission? Maybe not. But it enhanced the dance around the forbidden fruit that leaves folks craving for more.
Pornography, lust, adultery these aren’t new to humanity. Nearly back to the beginning of time the wisest king of all fell prey to women through an uncontrollable lust. But over time, we have widen the boundaries creating an unspoken norm with painful and shameful consequences.
There was a time when Playboy magazines were discretely tucked away amongst the other magazines making it difficult for the would be reader or more accurately, viewer. But now, there is no threat of public shame because with a click of the finger, anyone at anytime can welcome the dark dangerous world of porn in the privacy of their home.
Pornography. It’s accepted, even joked about and it is expected. After all, boys will be boys. And girls, well, if you’ve got it, flaunt it. What ridiculous, careless ideologies that grossly minimize the dangers of porn and men and women. Because let’s be real, it never stops with just one view. It grows, and broadens and reshapes the mind to something folks never wanted. Discouragement, depression and a lifestyle of secrecy and shame become the norm.
This destructive pattern is a reality for most men and now, even women Of all the things that should be censored, this should have topped the list. But sadly, this will never go away but only grow in filth. We are fighting a war where Satan sits at the helm eager to destroy.
There is no shame in having a struggle. There is no shame in a propensity that is off. But there is a responsibility on our part to deal with our brokenness, a brokenness that has already been nailed to the cross.
Resurrecting from the chains of porn, or any other addiction only comes through the freedom of Jesus Christ. Living it out requires a conscious commitment to not walk this walk alone. Victory comes through battle, and battles are never fought alone. Battles are fought with a band of brothers and sisters who will never give up.
This is the body of Christ. We don’t have time for petty gossip, idle talk and judgmental hearts. We need to be about the business of restoration.