How Pornography Kills Ambition || Read to Me || Relaxing LoFi || Articles from Boundless.org

Summary

The script 'How Pornography Kills Ambition' by Samuel James explores the insidious impact of pornography on personal ambition and spiritual well-being. It illustrates the gradual isolation and apathy that can result from porn addiction, affecting relationships and work ethic. The narrative emphasizes the transformative power of holy ambition, contrasted by the self-destructive nature of pornography, which reorients desires inward, away from meaningful connections and service to God and others. The script concludes with a hopeful message, urging those struggling with addiction to seek redemption and purpose through the gospel, community, and the cultivation of talents for the benefit of the church.

Takeaways

• 🚨 Pornography can lead to a gradual change in a person's behavior and attitude, often unnoticed at first but eventually becoming apparent to those close to them.
• 🔒 The dangers of pornography are multifaceted, affecting not only spiritual and emotional well-being but also the individual's social and professional life.
• 🛑 Pornography addiction can lead to a decrease in ambition, as it trains the mind to seek pleasure in a self-oriented way, diminishing interest in real-world activities and relationships.
• 💔 Pornography's impact on ambition is profound as it can erode a person's desire to pursue meaningful and faithful living, which is a form of 'holy ambition'.
• 🤔 The perception of ambition as a negative trait, equated with greed, is challenged by the script, which posits that ambition can also be a positive force directed towards meaningful goals.
• 🧠 Pornography rewires the brain to crave the instant gratification of fantasy over the slower, more complex rewards of real-life interactions and achievements.
• 👥 The script highlights the isolating effects of pornography, which can lead to a disconnection from others and a focus on self-centered desires.
• 🎓 The author's personal experience as a pastor's kid and a Bible college student illustrates the potential for leading a 'double life' and the impact of addiction on personal and academic performance.
• 📚 C.S. Lewis's quote is used to emphasize how self-oriented lust can lead to self-adoration and a retreat into one's own fantasies, away from real relationships.
• 🛠 Work and service are presented as forms of worship and expressions of love, which can be hindered by the self-absorption induced by pornography.
• 💔 The ultimate message is that pornography kills love and holy ambition by turning individuals inwards, away from the divine purpose of reflecting God's image through meaningful work and relationships.

Q & A

What is the main theme of the article 'How Pornography Kills Ambition' by Samuel James?

The main theme of the article is the negative impact of pornography on an individual's ambition, spiritual and emotional well-being, and how it can lead to a self-isolating lifestyle that hinders personal growth and meaningful relationships.

How does the author describe the initial signs of someone struggling with pornography addiction?

The author describes the initial signs as subtle changes in mood or a noticeable vacancy in the eyes, which may be followed by a lack of interest in previously loved hobbies, apathy in interactions, and a general sense of the person not being fully present or engaged in life.

What are some of the common dangers of pornography mentioned in the script?

The script mentions that pornography degrades and objectifies individuals, creates barriers in relationships, and can rewire the brain to impair the capacity for real intimacy and enjoyment.

Why does the author argue that pornography can also kill 'holy ambition'?

The author argues that pornography can kill 'holy ambition' because it trains the mind to seek self-oriented pleasure and power, diminishing interest in real-world activities, relationships, and the pursuit of meaningful goals that align with one's faith and values.

How does the script explain the concept of 'holy ambition'?

The script explains 'holy ambition' as a Christ-shaped desire to live meaningfully and faithfully, such as seeking a good job to provide for a family or doing well in school to use one's talents for the benefit of others.

What does the author suggest is the effect of pornography on a person's ability to form and maintain relationships?

The author suggests that pornography trains the mind to focus on self-oriented consumption, leading to a decreased attachment to others and an inability to form genuine connections, as real people start to seem less interesting compared to the fantasy world of pornography.

How does the author describe the impact of pornography on work and ministry?

The author describes the impact as frustrating and burdensome, with work becoming an obstacle to further fantasy and ministry being weighed down with shame and the fear of being discovered due to the secret addiction.

What personal experience does the author share regarding his struggle with pornography?

The author shares his experience as a pastor's kid and Bible college student who led a secret double life, being drawn into pornography and experiencing a decline in school performance and social engagement, which he only realized after overcoming his addiction.

What does the author suggest as a solution to overcome the effects of pornography addiction?

The author suggests embracing the gospel, joining a local church and small group for support, eliminating hidden parts of life, cultivating talents and interests as part of worship, and developing a holy ambition to serve God and others.

How does the script relate the struggle with pornography to the broader concept of love and self-adoration?

The script relates the struggle by stating that pornography kills love by directing the mind and heart back at oneself, leading to self-adoration and a departure from the intended purpose of being created to image God through work, love, service, and faithfulness.

What is the final message of hope that the author conveys in the script?

The final message of hope is that there is always redemption and hope through Jesus, and that one should not let the empty promises of pornography kill their holy ambition, as there is always a way to overcome and find fulfillment in a life aligned with faith and service.

Outlines

00:00

🚫 The Destructive Impact of Pornography on Ambition

This paragraph discusses the subtle yet profound effects of pornography on an individual's ambition and personal growth. It describes the transformation of an initially outgoing person into someone displaying signs of apathy and disinterest in their hobbies and social life. The text highlights the broader societal recognition of pornography's dangers, including its impact on relationships and the capacity for real intimacy. The paragraph emphasizes a lesser-discussed consequence: the killing of ambition, which is portrayed not only as a drive for material success but also as a 'holy ambition'—a Christ-centered desire to live a meaningful and faithful life.

05:07

🔒 Pornography's Erosion of Personal Identity and Aspirations

The second paragraph delves into the author's personal experience with pornography, illustrating the dichotomy between his public image as a pastor's kid and theology student and his private struggle with addiction. It outlines how pornography fostered a self-absorbed mindset that led to a decline in academic performance and social withdrawal. The text draws on C.S. Lewis's perspective on self-oriented lust, explaining how it reinforces self-adoration and vanity, ultimately undermining love and the pursuit of holy ambition. The paragraph concludes by emphasizing the impact of pornography on one's work and vocational calling, suggesting that overcoming this addiction can be a path to rediscovering one's purpose and potential in serving God and others.

Keywords

💡Pornography

Pornography refers to the depiction of explicit sexual content for the purpose of sexual arousal. In the video's context, it is portrayed as a destructive force that erodes ambition and personal relationships. The script discusses how pornography can lead to a sense of isolation and a focus on self-gratification, which is detrimental to one's spiritual and emotional well-being.

💡Ambition

Ambition is defined as a strong desire to achieve something, often requiring determination and hard work. The video explores how pornography can 'kill' ambition by redirecting one's drive and focus towards self-centered fantasies, thereby undermining the pursuit of meaningful goals and aspirations.

💡Addiction

Addiction, in this context, refers to a compulsive engagement with pornography that becomes difficult to stop. The script illustrates the concept by describing the gradual but significant impact of pornography on an individual's life, highlighting the transformation from an enthusiastic person to one consumed by apathy and isolation.

💡Isolation

Isolation is the state of being alone or separated from others. The video script uses this term to describe the effect of pornography on individuals, where the沉迷 leads to a withdrawal from social interactions and a disconnection from the real world, as their focus shifts to the virtual realm of pornography.

💡Intimacy

Intimacy is the close, personal, and often emotional connection between individuals. The script warns that pornography can 're-wire' one's brain, diminishing the capacity for real intimacy by fostering unrealistic expectations and a self-centered approach to relationships.

💡Desire

Desire in the video script is used to describe the cravings that pornography incites, which are often self-oriented and disconnected from the needs and desires of others. It is portrayed as a force that can distort one's perception of reality and skew priorities towards fulfilling these cravings.

💡Fantasy

Fantasy, as discussed in the script, refers to the unrealistic and often idealized scenarios presented by pornography. It is depicted as a harmful construct that trains the mind to seek pleasure in a private and self-centered way, detaching the individual from the complexities and responsibilities of real life.

💡Double Life

A 'double life' is a term used to describe the discrepancy between an individual's public persona and their private behavior. The script uses this concept to illustrate the duplicity of someone struggling with pornography addiction, where they maintain a respectable image while secretly indulging in destructive habits.

💡Holy Ambition

Holy Ambition is a term used in the script to describe a righteous and God-centered drive to achieve meaningful and faithful goals. It is contrasted with the self-destructive ambition fostered by pornography, highlighting the importance of aligning one's aspirations with spiritual values.

💡Love

Love, in the context of the video, is presented as a divine gift meant to connect individuals with one another, fostering mutual care and understanding. The script argues that pornography undermines this love by promoting self-centeredness and eroding the capacity for genuine connection and intimacy.

💡Redemption

Redemption in the script signifies the possibility of overcoming the negative effects of pornography through faith and spiritual transformation. It is offered as a hopeful message that, despite the damage caused by addiction, there is a path to healing and restoration through the gospel.

Highlights

Pornography's isolating effect on individuals, leading to a shift in mood and a sense of apathy.

The impact of porn on friendships and social interactions, causing a withdrawal from events and hobbies.

The spiritual and emotional dangers of porn addiction, recognized by Christian leaders and secular observers alike.

The degradation and objectification of individuals caused by porn, affecting both men and women.

How porn addiction can 're-wire' the brain, hindering real intimacy and enjoyment.

The lesser-known consequence of porn on ambition, suggesting it can be as deadly as other effects.

The misconception that ambition is synonymous with greed, and the holy ambition as a Christ-shaped desire for meaningful living.

The way porn trains the brain for self-oriented pleasure, diminishing interest in the real world and others.

The effect of porn on work and ministry, causing frustration and shame due to the contrast with fantasy.

The personal account of living a double life due to porn addiction, and its impact on personal demeanor and academic performance.

C.S. Lewis' perspective on self-oriented lust leading to self-adoration and the loss of genuine love and connection.

The gospel's relevance to porn addicts, offering hope and redemption regardless of the depth of addiction.

The importance of joining a community for support and accountability in overcoming porn addiction.

Cultivating talents and interests as part of worship to God, offering them to the service of the church and others.

The encouragement to develop a holy ambition and find joy in it, as a means to combat the effects of pornography.

The redemptive solution to the tragedy of porn addiction, emphasizing the role of the gospel and community.

Transcripts

Boundless — The Audiobook: Articles and  Blog Posts from Boundless.org, presented to you  

in audio form. "How Pornography Kills Ambition"  by Samuel James. Porn's isolating emphasis on  

pleasing myself actually made me less myself. It’s a familiar pattern. An outgoing, enthusiastic guy

begins slowly but surely to change. At first it’s almost imperceptible — a shift in mood or

a vacancy in the eyes only those closest to him can see. It’s not drastic or alarming, but it’s

real. Maybe his friends start to notice when he doesn’t talk about those hobbies he used

to love. Perhaps his coworkers make more and more passing remarks like, “Is everything okay?” There’s a

thin but undeniable air of apathy in all he says and does. Friendships get put on hold, and events

are skipped for no particular reason. It’s nothing earth-shattering; he just seems not really there.

In my own life, and in the lives of friends I’ve known, this is one of the most reliable

signs someone — male or female — is losing the battle against pornography. {The Dangers of Pornography}

The dangers of pornography are well-documented. For many years, Christian pastors, teachers and writers

have warned that porn is a serious spiritual and emotional threat to individuals and families. The  

effects of porn addiction have become so commonly seen in our culture that non-Christian observers

are beginning to talk about it. Time magazine, for example, recently devoted an entire cover story

to the testimonies of several young men who felt their pornography usage greatly wounded them later

in life. When we list the dangers of pornography, we often address the typical things: We talk about

how porn degrades and objectifies men and women. We argue that porn puts spiritual and physical

walls between husbands and wives and how it can “re-wire” our brains to cripple our capacity for

real intimacy and enjoyment. All of these warnings are absolutely true and need to be repeated. {Porn

Kills Ambition} But there’s another consequence of porn, one that might seem insignificant but may

actually be one of the deadliest effects of all. Porn doesn’t just dirty the imagination or wound

the spirit — it also kills ambition. Perhaps you see the word “ambition” and think that killing it

may not be such a bad idea for a Christian. After all, isn’t ambition just another word for “greed”?

Doesn’t ambition signify an insatiable thirst for more — more money, more status, more success?

Certainly, ambition can be directed toward sinful things. There are many examples in Scripture of

people whose unrestrained ambition and inflated ego brought them to ruin, and it even led to the

splitting of a nation (1 Kings 12). But ambition can also be holy, a Christ-shaped desire to live as

meaningfully and faithfully as one can. A young man who desires a good job so he can marry and

provide for a wife is experiencing this kind of holy ambition. A student who wants to do well in

school so she can graduate and reach others with her skills and talents is likewise “ambitious.” Human

beings are not created to live apathetically in a self-consumed cocoon; rather, we are created

to image God, through work, love, service and faithfulness. {Porn Trains Our Brains} Pornography

is an acid to this kind of holy ambition. The problem is not only that the person addicted

to porn spends so much time with it, though that is a problem. A much larger issue is that pornography

invites its user to enter into a private world of fantasy, pleasure and power, and it teaches

the user to tune his desires and expectations to this fictional universe. As his mind sinks deeper

and deeper into sordid imaginings, the real world — with its humanity and people who have their own

desires and expectations — starts to seem less interesting. Pornography trains the mind to be

pleasured with self-oriented consumption, and it trains people to feel less and

less attachment to the “other” (or to the world and people who exist outside the glowing smartphone

screen). Meeting new people becomes an exercise in finding subtle ways to mentally undress them. Work,

with its filtered computers and public spaces, becomes a frustrating, dull obstacle to further

fantasy. Ministry is weighed down with shame and the fear of being discovered. Even hobbies don’t

seem interesting anymore since they fail to provide the chemical jolt that hours of porn

use have embedded onto the brain. {Leading a Double Life} This may sound extreme, but it’s a consistent

product of a struggle with porn addiction. When I was in my late teens and early twenties, I lived a

secret double life. I was a pastor’s kid (PK) and enrolled in a Bible college. To many eyes I was

an exemplary “PK,” always at church, playing music on Sunday mornings and studying theology and

apologetics. But my second life was lived out alone on my laptop where porn consistently drew me in

day after day, for years. All through that time, I thought I was putting forward a pretty convincing

act. But it wasn’t until after Christ had delivered me from addiction I realized it hadn’t been that

convincing. I had been different. People later told me I seemed perpetually engrossed in my own

thoughts, distracted, aloof and anxious. My grades in school had declined, and I even failed a class.

None of this was because my life was “falling apart” in the sense we usually think. I had a job, housing

and a family who loved me. Instead my pornography addiction had been slowly eroding my interest in

life. Porn’s isolating emphasis on pleasing myself had actually made me less myself. In a letter to an

American reader, C.S. Lewis once wrote the danger of self-oriented lust is that it “sends the man back

into the prison of himself, there to keep a harem of imaginary brides … Among those shadowy brides

he is always adored, always the perfect lover: no demand is made on his unselfishness, no

mortification ever imposed on his vanity. In the end, they become merely the medium through which

he increasingly adores himself.” Pornography thus kills holy ambition by killing love. Love, expressed

through marriage and faithful sexual intimacy, is a gift from God that’s meant to pull us out from

ourselves toward one another. But pornography aims the mind and heart back at oneself. By

collapsing into ourselves, we in turn become less and less like what we are created to be. {The Attack

of Our Work} This disordering doesn’t just affect our relationships; it inevitably attacks our work.

It was out of love that God gave Adam and Eve work to do, and their work was meant to rebound in love

to God. Whether we are tasked with laboring on an Iowa farm or creating graphics in a city high-rise,

our work is part of our love and worship to God. That’s what a holy ambition is: a desire

to know and love God more deeply through the fulfillment of the tasks He’s given. By repudiating

love through self-worship, pornography stifles holy ambition. How many people are keeping their talents

and gifts from the kingdom because they are burdened and consumed by pornography? As John

Piper wrote: One of the major forces preventing young people from obeying the call of God

into vocational Christian service is defeat in the area of lust. A teenager hears a challenging

call to throw himself into the cause of world evangelization. He feels the promptings of the Holy

Spirit. He tastes the thrill of following the King of kings into battle. But he does not obey because

he … feels guilty. He can hardly imagine witnessing to a pretty girl about the eternal plight of her

soul, because he has so habitually looked at girls naked in his imagination. So he feels unworthy and

unable to obey the call of God. This is a tragedy. But it’s a tragedy that has a redemptive solution.

{The Gospel is for You} The gospel exists for the porn addict. And the druggie. And the hypocritical

Christian. The gospel is for you and for me. You are not too far gone, no matter how addicted

you may be or how many people have been hurt by your sin. The gospel invites you to come

to God, not so He can congratulate you or condemn you, but that He might adopt you. Join yourself to

others in practicing love. Belong to a local church and small group where you can know and

be known. Get rid of any part of your life that is “hidden” from everyone. Cultivate your talents and

interests as part of your worship to God, and offer those to the service of the church and the benefit

of your brothers and sisters in Christ. Get a holy ambition, and take joy in it. There is always hope

because there is always Jesus. Don’t let the empty promises of pornography kill your holy ambition.