Date: 2007-05-10 10:33:40
Subject: Pornography
I have been addicted to porn for many years. I have tried to quit and many times I thought that I was free but I would find myself back in its grip. Even now, though I have given my life to Christ and think that I am free, I also think on the past and the number of times I would return to the addiction and I feel that it might be possible to return to my old self. This gives me grief and is very depressing. Sometimes I hate the thing I have become. I am struggling with this desire. Even as I write about it, I feel a pull to return. I hate it. It is disgusting and depressing. Sometimes I want to cry. It is embarrassing to admit that I want to cry but it is the truth. I want and need true freedom. May God have mercy on me and people like me!
Date: 2007-05-09 14:11:40
Subject: Encouragement To Person Going Through Trial
Warm Christian Greetings,
I write briefly to send you a word of encouragement as you go through this difficult time in your life. Rest assured that I will be praying for you, and I know God has everything in control even though there are times it seems like things are going badly.
The following paragraph was given by Oswald Chambers and I thought you might find it to be inspirational.
"A saint's life is in the hands of God as a bow and arrow in the hands of an archer. God is aiming at something the saint cannot see; he stretches and strains, and every now and again the saint says, "I cannot stand any more." But God does not heed; he goes on stretching until his purpose is in sight, then he lets fly. We are here for God's designs, not for our own."
We have many people who serve God only because of the things He "does" instead of for "Who He is". It is important that we seek not only the "hand of God" (the things He does for us), but also see the "face of God" or Worship Him for Who He is.
A scripture you have heard many times is one that I often return to for strength during difficult times: "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose."
- Romans 8:28
Again, I encourage you to continue to trust God, and I know He will bring you out on "the other side" in great victory!
Blessings in Christ,
Pastor Washington
