Why God Allows You to Struggle With Lust (The Hidden Purpose Behind the Thorn)

Summary

This message addresses the struggle with lust, offering a powerful perspective on how God uses these challenges to shape and refine us. The speaker emphasizes that lust is not just a sin, but a symptom pointing to deeper wounds and desires, and that God's grace is sufficient to transform us through our weaknesses. The struggle is not a curse, but a calling that drives us closer to God. Through endurance, prayer, and worship, the battle with lust becomes a spiritual war, ultimately leading to freedom and personal transformation. The key message is: 'I choose purity.'

Takeaways

• 😀 Lust is not just a sin; it is a symptom of deeper wounds, hunger, or unmet needs within us.
• 😀 Struggling with lust is not a curse, but a calling in disguise that leads to spiritual growth and dependence on God.
• 😀 God's grace is sufficient for you in the midst of struggle, and sometimes He allows pain to teach you reliance on Him.
• 😀 Lust often tests our identity and purity, and victory over it is linked to discovering your true identity in Christ.
• 😀 Lust begins with the eyes; guarding your vision is crucial, as it shapes your thoughts and desires.
• 😀 True freedom from lust is found not in willpower, but in surrender to the Holy Spirit.
• 😀 Spiritual warfare involves fighting with God's Word and declaring your choice of purity aloud to break strongholds.
• 😀 Deliverance from lust is a process of intimacy with God, not just immediate healing. Worship, prayer, and confession are vital tools.
• 😀 The struggles you face, including lust, are not in vain. They are preparation for a greater destiny and serve to refine you.
• 😀 Your temptation and the resulting battles are not unique to you—others face similar struggles, and your victory may help others find theirs.

Q & A

What is the central message of the script?

The central message of the script is that struggles, such as lust, are not just obstacles but are opportunities for spiritual growth. These struggles can help refine and humble us, drawing us closer to God. The thorn of temptation, which feels like a curse, is often part of God's divine preparation for something greater in our lives.

Why doesn't God simply remove the desire for lust, according to the script?

According to the script, God doesn't remove the desire for lust because deliverance without dependence would lead to idolatry. If God gave instant freedom, people might worship the gift of freedom rather than the giver. The ongoing struggle is meant to deepen intimacy with God, requiring us to rely on His grace and draw nearer to Him.

How does the script explain the relationship between lust and identity?

The script emphasizes that lust is not just a sin but a symptom of deeper issues like wounds, hunger, or a need. The battle isn't just physical; it’s spiritual, involving our identity. Lust often makes people feel unworthy or filthy, but God’s truth calls them beloved, redeemed, and chosen, reminding them that their identity is rooted in Christ, not their struggles.

What does the script say about the role of the thorn in our lives?

The thorn in our lives, symbolizing ongoing struggles like lust, is not a punishment but a tool for refinement. It helps prevent pride, keeps us dependent on God, and ensures we cling to Him rather than relying on our own strength. The thorn is a reminder that God’s grace is sufficient, even in our weaknesses.

Why is the story of Joseph included in the script, and what lesson does it teach?

The story of Joseph is included to illustrate that lust and temptation can be a test before elevation. Just as Joseph was tempted and ended up in prison before being elevated to a throne, our struggles with lust may be part of God’s preparation for a higher purpose. The message is that before glory comes trials, and these moments shape us for future greatness.

What is the significance of the eyes in the context of the script?

The eyes are portrayed as gateways to the soul. Lust often begins with what we see, and if we don't guard our eyes, we open ourselves to temptation. The script references Matthew 18:9, where Jesus advises plucking out an eye if it causes sin, showing how important it is to protect our vision and what we allow into our hearts.

What does the script suggest is the key to overcoming lust and temptation?

The key to overcoming lust is walking by the Spirit. The script cites Galatians 5:16, stating that if we walk by the Spirit, we will not gratify the desires of the flesh. This highlights that victory over lust doesn’t come from effort alone but from surrendering to the Holy Spirit and allowing Him to guide us.

How does worship play a role in resisting temptation, according to the script?

Worship is presented as a powerful weapon against temptation. The script explains that when faced with lust, worship can break the power of temptation. Praise silences shame and strengthens the believer. Even in moments of weakness, lifting hands and worshiping can diminish the hold of lust and redirect the focus to God.

What does the script say about the relationship between struggle and testimony?

The script emphasizes that the struggles we face are not in vain. They are being forged into a testimony. The very struggles, such as with lust, can become the story that helps others find freedom. Our perseverance through these trials is often the key to someone else’s breakthrough, turning personal battles into collective victories.

What is the significance of the covenant of the eyes, as mentioned in Job 31?

The covenant of the eyes, as referenced in Job 31, is a commitment to guard what we look at and allow into our hearts. It’s a form of spiritual warfare to protect our purity. The script underscores that the eyes are windows to the soul, and making a covenant with our eyes is essential for maintaining purity and resisting lust.