March 29
Guarding
the Heart
"But here is what I tell you. Do not even look at a woman in the wrong way. Anyone who does has already committed adultery with her in his heart."
Matthew 5:28 (NIrV)
Johnny stared at his computer screen, the glow reflecting off his tired face. He had told himself it was the last time—just one more click, and he’d stop for good. But hours later, guilt and shame weighed him down like a heavy chain.
He had been struggling with pornography for years, a habit that started as a teenager and slowly tightened its grip on him as an adult. Johnny loved God, but he felt trapped, unable to align his actions with his faith.
One night, after yet another failed attempt to resist, Johnny sat on the edge of his bed, tears streaming down his face. “God, I’m desperate,” he whispered. “I can’t do this on my own. Please help me find a way out.”
The next day, during his lunch break, Johnny scrolled through an online Christian forum and came across a post about accountability partners. The post linked to an app designed to connect people struggling with similar issues. It was a lifeline, and Johnny decided to give it a try.
Through the app, he connected with Sam, a fellow Christian who had battled and overcome the same addiction. Sam’s messages were honest and supportive, but he didn’t sugarcoat the truth.
“Johnny,” Sam wrote during one of their chats, “this isn’t just about self-control. It’s about surrendering your heart to God completely. Matthew 5:28 reminds us that even our thoughts matter to Him. Let’s start there—ask Him to renew your mind and guard your eyes.”
Johnny hesitated. Could he truly let God take control? That night, he prayed earnestly, “Lord, I’ve failed so many times, but I know You haven’t given up on me. Help me focus on You instead of my desires. Change my heart, God.”
The journey wasn’t easy. Johnny set up filters on his devices, scheduled daily check-ins with Sam, and began memorizing Scripture, including Matthew 5:28. Each time he felt tempted, he turned to prayer and reached out to Sam. Slowly but surely, the chains started to loosen.
One day, Johnny realized it had been weeks since he last stumbled. The shame that once consumed him was replaced with peace, and for the first time in years, he felt free.
He texted Sam, “I never thought I’d get to this place. God’s grace is so much bigger than I imagined. Thank you for walking with me.”
Sam replied, “It’s not me, Johnny. It’s God working in you. Keep leaning on Him.”
Johnny smiled, knowing Sam was right. His victory wasn’t just about breaking a habit—it was about surrendering fully to God and trusting Him to transform his heart.
Prayer:
Dear Lord, thank You for Your endless grace and the strength You provide when we are weak.
Help us guard our hearts and honor You with our thoughts and actions.
When we feel overwhelmed by sin, remind us that Your power is greater and Your love is constant.
Thank You for placing people in our lives who encourage and support us in our journey with You.
Continue to renew our minds and draw us closer to You each day.
In Jesus' name, Amen.
