God had paid for me . I learned that what others thought of me was less important than what God ’ s Word said about me . I stopped working so hard to prove myself and learned what it meant to rest in Jesus ( Matt . 11:28 ). I learned to forgive myself and not live in shame and guilt any longer ( Rom . 8:1 ). As the truth began to shape my thinking , I began to experience the freedom I had always longed for . And I am learning that God ’ s freedom is ever-expanding . It continues to set me free as I continue to surrender to Him .
For over a decade , I have worked with men and boys struggling with sexual temptation ( this is also a prevalent issue with females ). I have found that every single one struggles with the same basic problem : They believe lies .
They believe keeping it hidden is better than confessing it . They think it is a victimless offense when , in reality , it affects and harms many people on multiple levels . They believe porn will satisfy them somehow or make them feel better , only to find that it leaves them hollowed out and dissatisfied . They believe lies about themselves or God that keeps them in porn , such as “ I will never be free ” or “ God understands since He made me this way .”
If lies are what keep people in bondage , it is the truth that sets them free from the lies ! And staying in step with God ’ s Spirit is how they can live lives of victory . Every person I ’ ve counseled who exchanges those lies for the truth of God ’ s Word has begun walking in His ever-expanding freedom . There is hope when we turn our hearts and minds to God ’ s truth and fully embrace it !
Whenever my wife and I watch old reruns of the Andy Griffith Show , I wish we could return to a simpler time without the Internet , smartphones , social media , and neverending technology . I wish it for myself and my children . But the truth is that technology is here to stay . Despite the challenges this brings us as parents , we can be thankful we serve a God who is the same yesterday , today , and forever and that He ’ s made a way for each generation to be free and to live in victory . ■
Experience the beauty
of Manderley Christian Camp in the tranquil Sequatchie Valley of Tennessee .
Play , adventure , and relax while learning biblical truths to deepen your faith in Jesus Christ , and leave with a plan and desire to live your faith out loud . Visit our website for information on upcoming Signature Camps and Events .
AUTHOR RECOMMENDED RESOURCES : Covenant Eyes ( covenanteyes . com )
Breaking Free : Understanding Sexual Addiction and the Healing Power of Jesus by Russell Willingham
Higher Pursuits : Overcoming the Lies that Keep Us from Freedom , Power , and Purpose by Dave Bowerman
Melvin Adams Jr . is the lead pastor of Faith Family Community Church , a multicultural , multigenerational church in Winter Garden , Florida . He and his wife , Tamela , have five children , four of whom they adopted through the foster care system . Melvin was raised as a missionary kid in Ukraine , is a church revitalizer and planter , and believes the Gospel of Jesus Christ is what can transform our world . He regularly disciples men who are battling sexual temptation .
Looking for the perfect location to host your camp or event ? Our camp facilities provide an ideal setting for an unforgettable experience . Contact us today for more information .
manderley . camp • 423-447-2888 100 Manderley Lane , Pikeville , TN 37367