Guided Prayer
One · Pause
Be still for a moment. Breathe in slowly, and out slowly — three times. There is no hurry here, and no one is watching.
Be still, and know that I am God.
Psalm 46:10 · KJV
Two · Check in
Without condemning yourself, notice: what were you feeling right before the pull came?
Three · Scripture · King James Version
“There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.”
1 Corinthians 10:13 · KJV
“Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.”
2 Timothy 2:22 · KJV
“Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.”
Psalm 51:10 · KJV
Four · Reflection
Temptation is common to everyone; it is not proof that you are uniquely broken. God promises a way of escape — often a practical one, taken early.
Five · Pray this
Lord, I want a clean heart more than I want this. Show me the way of escape You have made, and give me strength to take it. Meet the ache underneath this with Yourself. In Jesus' name, amen.
Six · Now in your own words
Ask God to show you the need you have been trying to numb.
Seven · Private journal
When the pull is strongest, and what I will do instead next time.
Eight · One practical step
Set one practical guard today, and tell one trusted, mature person.
Before you go
This struggle does not mean you lack faith. Grace meets you here, again.