Two Strategies to Win the War on Lust
Struggling with lustful thoughts? Discover effective strategies to overcome this struggle as Pastor John Piper addresses the battle against lust, providing a two-part approach to spiritual and mental fitness. Learn how resistance and reception play crucial roles in combating temptation. By resisting sinful desires and actively engaging with God’s promises, you can strengthen your faith. This practical guide will help you navigate a sex-crazed culture and find victory in your spiritual journey. https://www.desiringgod.org/interviews/two-strategies-to-win-the-war-on-lust APJ 1153: “Two Strategies to Win the War on Lust” (January 31, 2018)
Key Bible Verses
Topics
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Summary
Introduction
Pastor John provides a two-part paradigm for transforming the way we think, focusing on the themes of resistance and reception.
The Analogy of Physical Fitness
Becoming physically fit involves two aspects: resistance and reception. Resistance: Exercises that put your muscles under strain to make them stronger. Reception: Taking in healthy foods and getting sufficient sleep. The analogy illustrates how spiritual transformation also involves resistance and reception.
The Biblical Principle of Resistance
James 4:7 says to resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Romans 8:13 encourages us to put to death the deeds of the body by the Spirit. Testing of faith produces steadfastness (James 1:3). Resist temptation by actively pushing the thought out of your mind. Direct your attention to a superior promise: Jesus is better, Jesus is enough.
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The Importance of Reception
2 Corinthians 3:18: beholding the glory of the Lord, we are transformed into the same image. Fixing our gaze on the glory of the Lord, mainly in the Word. Marinate our minds receptively by faith in the crockpot of God's Word. Colossians 3:10 reminds us that in Jesus we are new creatures, and we must put on the new self. Transformation of the mind happens in knowledge: look to Jesus more and more.
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Overcoming Sexual Temptation Through Knowledge of God
1 Thessalonians 4:3-5: abstain from sexual immorality by knowing how to control your body in holiness and honor, not in the passion of lust like the Gentiles who do not know God. Sinful passion rules in people who do not know God. Be renewed in knowledge and set your mind to behold the glory of Jesus day and night. Transformation is both resistance against unbelief and temptation, and the sweet and joyful reception through God's Word. Both resistance and reception over time transform our hearts and minds.
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Conclusion
Transformation involves both resisting temptation and receiving God's grace. Renewing your mind with the knowledge of God helps you overcome sexual temptation. Engage in resisting temptation by actively pushing away lustful thoughts and replacing them with the promises of Christ. Practice reception by fixing your gaze on the glory of the Lord through scripture and meditation.