When I was first asked to write an opinion piece for this months blog on the topic of sex and porn addiction based on an internet article I was excited. I thought “man this will be easy”. I soon found there has been a lot written about this subject and it was difficult to find one article. I then found an article from Psychology Today on the dangers of internet porn and internet gaming addictions (take a moment to read it, don’t let the scientific stuff burn your noodle). Both addictions affect the brain in the same way. They both eventually atrophy the brain, ruining a persons ability to properly make decisions, process pleasure, and properly function over time. The article also walks you through what happens with the drug cocaine and the brain.
I must admit as an avid gamer, and former porn user, this article freaks me out a bit. Not because I disagree with it but because it really hits home with me. I totally relate the the hours logged farming gold, building to the next level in a game, or trolling around for that perfect porn vid/pic that gets my blood a flowing. It takes more and more each time to get the same reaction. Where I needed more and more porn to feel “normal” each day, now I am always looking for the next big game, or the newest challenge mode for that game to “get off”. While I no longer open my laptop and enjoy porn all night, I now will load up a game and the next thing I know it is 8am and my kids are begging for breakfast. Anyone else do this?
I have found I have replace one addiction for another and I am convicted. This brings about the cycle of guilt and shame that usually accompanies my porn use. I know God is quick to forgive. 1 John 1:9 tells us “if we confess our sins, He (God) is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all righteousness”. This is my hope verse, if I ask to be forgiven God purifies me. I think of it as a bar of soap that washes away the crud of my sin. That is the Bible verse I cling to when I am wanting to beat myself up with my failures.
Please click the link above and read the article. What resonates with you? Have you traded your porn/sex addiction with something just as empty? Where are you in the process of getting clean?
Accountability is a key component in recovery. XXXchurch.com offers two options for accountability.
X3 Groups is a online based group that meets weekly at the same time offering personal accountability with others. This is an option if you are unable to find someone in your area that will offer this help.
X3 Watch is another option that goes hand in hand with the X3 Groups and any accountability. This is a program that can be placed on either your computer or mobile devices.