Overcome Porn: The 40 Day ChallengeSample

About 45% of Americans make New Year’s resolutions, but 88% end in failure. When you’re resolved to stop something, especially something as pleasurable as watching porn, the deck is stacked against you. So how do you set a resolution that sticks?

1. Start with small, measurable goals. Break your overall goals into a series of steps, focusing on sub-goals that are concrete, measurable, and time-based. Jesus says those who finish well as disciples are those who anticipate the measurable steps along the way (Luke 14:28-33).

2. Focus on rewards. The top 10% who achieve their resolutions are those who regularly remind themselves about the benefits. Create a checklist of how life will be better once you break free, including the rewards (Hebrews 11:24-26). 

3. Establish tangible reminders. Those who live up to their resolutions tangibly map out their progress, writing down their smaller goals and the benefits they desire. Do what works for you! Stick Post-It® Notes everywhere. Wear a ring or bracelet. Set alerts on your phone or calendar. This is also Scripturally based (Joshua 4:5-7). 

4. Be accountable for your goals. Those who achieved their resolutions told their friends and family about their goals. This increased the fear of failure and created a network of support. The same is true in cases of porn addiction. A study from Fuller Theological Seminary found that those who combined both Christian counseling and using Covenant Eyes Accountability on their devices experienced a 66% drop in relapses, and many participants said they never relapsed.

5. Have the right attitude about slips. In our efforts to flee from sin and temptation, people often have a lot of resolve at the beginning, but that resolve tends to dwindle. This is why we need a long-term strategy for change (Luke 14:28-33, Proverbs 24:27). 

When you are at your best, plan for your worst. When your resolve to quit porn is high, it is important to remember that a day will come when your resolve will not be as high, and you need to have a plan in place that carries you through those days. 

Action Step 

Generate a plan to integrate these five steps in your life and stay motivated amidst all of life’s ups and downs.

Reflection 

What is one memorable take-away you learned from today’s devotional?