Beauty Begins: Every Man’s Battle - Kerry Shook and Jordan Alpha

“I made a covenant with my eyes not to look with lust at a young woman.” Job 31:1 (NLT)

Women need to know that we will fight for them. That we will do whatever it takes. That we will lay down our lives for them if necessary. We will give up our wants and needs to put them ahead of ourselves. We will push through uncomfortable and awkward situations and initiate conversations if it promotes a stronger marriage. We will put our pride and selfishness aside and accept responsibility for our mistakes. We are called to be the spiritual leaders of our families. That means we are to lead by serving them and meeting their needs ahead of our own. When we fight for them and alongside them, we reflect the beautiful character of Christ.

When it comes to fighting for our daughters and wives, we must also win the battle that every man faces every single day in our sex-saturated culture. It has never been easier to access pornography than it is in our society now. With one click on the computer or cell phone, images and videos appear that, in years past, could be accessed only by going to a seedy adult bookstore.

Men, we must get serious about this dangerous sin because nothing is more destructive, devaluing, and hurtful to our wives and daughters. It’s also destructive in our lives, keeping us in a cycle of selfishness and guilt. That’s why the Apostle Paul wrote,

“God’s will is for you to be holy, so stay away from all sexual sin. Then each of you will control his own body and live in holiness and honor – not in lustful passion like the pagans who do not know God and His ways.” 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5 (NLT)

Recognizing the devastation of such sin, Job said, “I made a covenant with my eyes not to look with lust at a young woman.” Job 31:1 (NLT) There is so much to say about gaining victory in this battle, and many good Christian books provide guidance for men on this subject. But, it begins when we humble ourselves and admit we need accountability and encouragement to win this battle. Then, take some practical steps of action to protect yourself like putting a program on your computer and cell phone that blocks all adult content, and have your wife or a close friend set the password and be your accountability partner. No program is perfect, and, yes, occasionally the program may mistakenly block a site you need. Still, isn’t it worth fighting through an inconvenience so you can win the battle over lust and be part of the solution to help women feel as if they are treasured rather than being treated like trash?