Dr. Floyd Godfrey

The journey to recovery from porn addiction is deeply challenging, requiring both spiritual and practical commitment. God’s commandments surrounding our sexuality are not arbitrary; they exist because He understands the profound impact of these urges on our physical, emotional, and spiritual health. Developing patience during recovery is critical. The process is not a sprint—it’s a marathon, and through it, God offers healing and growth.

Understanding God’s Design for Sexuality
God created human sexuality as a beautiful and sacred gift within the covenant of marriage. Scripture reminds us, "Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a person commits are outside the body, but whoever sins sexually, sins against their own body" (1 Corinthians 6:18, NIV). These boundaries are not designed to restrict joy but to protect us and foster a deeper connection with Him.

Pornography twists and exploits this sacred gift, leaving wounds that often run deep. Recovery involves more than just willpower; it requires understanding God’s guidance, embracing His grace, and taking intentional steps toward healing.

Consistency Over Time
One of the biggest misconceptions about recovery is expecting immediate results. True healing comes through consistent change over time. Author Matt Fradd offers valuable wisdom: “Finally, be patient with yourself. Remember the wounds you have received didn’t come about overnight, and the healing won’t take place overnight, either” (Fradd, 2013, p. 143).

The journey to freedom mirrors the process of mastering a sport. Consider a man learning to play basketball. He doesn’t become proficient after one practice session or even a week. Instead, it takes months or years of coaching, practice, and incremental improvements. Similarly, breaking free from porn addiction involves identifying triggers, building accountability, and leaning on God’s strength daily. Just as an athlete needs a good coach, someone in recovery benefits from mentors, counselors, and spiritual leaders who can offer encouragement and guidance.

Perseverance and Determination
Lasting change requires perseverance. It’s tempting to feel defeated when you experience setbacks, but every step forward matters, even if progress feels slow. Fradd captures this truth: “It takes time, perseverance, and determination” (Fradd, 2013, p. 143). Recognize the value of small victories and trust that God is working in you, even when you can’t see immediate results.

In times of discouragement, remember the promise in Philippians 1:6: “Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus” (NIV). God is faithful to finish what He starts. Your effort, no matter how small, aligns with His greater plan for your healing and freedom.

Practical Steps for Change

• Establish Accountability: Share your struggle with trusted friends, a pastor, or a counselor who can walk with you in this journey.
• Create Healthy Habits: Replace destructive behaviors with life-giving routines such as prayer, exercise, or volunteering.
• Seek Counseling: Therapeutic interventions, rooted in biblical principles, offer tools to understand and overcome addictive patterns.
• Lean on Scripture: Meditate on verses that reinforce God’s love and promises.

Victory over porn addiction is possible through God’s grace, perseverance, and intentional action. Trust that God is with you every step of the way, guiding you toward freedom and wholeness.

Floyd Godfrey, PhD is a Board Certified Christian Counselor and has facilitated groups within different churches and denominations over the past 30 years. He worked as a licensed clinician for 23 years and provided supervision and training for other counselors as they worked toward independent licensure. You can read more about Floyd Godfrey, PhD at www.FloydGodfrey.com.