It's Giving... Lust

Understanding Lust vs. Love: A Biblical Perspective on Sexual Desires

In today's hyper-sexualized culture, many struggle with understanding and managing sexual desires in a healthy way. Let's explore what the Bible teaches about lust, love, and sexual temptation.

What is Lust and Why Does it Matter?

Lust is more than just sexual desire - it's an intense craving or longing that can manifest in various forms like greed, idolatry, or selfish ambition. Jesus taught that lust begins in the heart, not with behavior. When we look at someone lustfully, we've already committed adultery in our hearts (Matthew 5).

How Can You Tell the Difference Between Lust and Love?

There are three key indicators to distinguish lust from love:

Pressure - Love is patient and kind, while lust creates pressure to cross boundaries

Secrecy - Love embraces healthy privacy, while lust demands hiding and deception

Selfishness - Love gives freely, while lust takes and demands without commitment

What Does the Bible Say About Sexual Desires?

Sex is God's good gift meant to be enjoyed within marriage. However, the enemy distorts this gift through:

Abuse - Using sex carelessly outside its intended context

Overindulgence - Using sex to medicate emotional pain

Idolatry - Making sex an object of worship

How Can We Overcome Lustful Temptations?

Two key strategies for overcoming lust:

Guard your heart - What you allow into your heart determines your life's direction

Plan your escape - Have a strategy ready for moments of temptation

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Catch the sermon right here!

Life Application

This week, examine your relationship with sexual desires by asking yourself:

Am I guarding my heart from unhealthy influences?

Do my relationships show signs of love or lust?

What specific escape plans can I put in place when temptation comes?

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Questions of reflection

Challenge: Make a covenant with your eyes like Job did. Choose one specific boundary to establish this week regarding what you allow yourself to view or engage with.

Remember: God offers grace and healing for sexual brokenness. He doesn't condemn but provides living water that truly satisfies our deepest thirsts.

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