I Was Addicted to Porn and Masturbation, Then God Moved

I began masturbating two years ago, at age 14. As soon as I felt that first rush, I was hooked; this became my comforter. Once a month turned into once a week, then multiple times a week, and eventually, multiple times a day. I’d been raised to believe that this was sin, but we’d stopped attending church and I barely believed. I didn’t have the strength to stop on my own — and honestly, I didn’t want to.

Then, last spring, we returned to church. Looking back, I can see God’s Hand in this. Through the workings of the Holy Spirit, I began to believe that He existed. As I grew closer to Him, I was convicted of my sin…but I still couldn’t conquer it. I desperately wanted to surrender and walk in freedom, but didn’t know how — and I still had doubts. Fortunately, He didn’t give up on me.

Eventually, the truth of the Gospel hit me. Not only was God real, but so was Jesus and the forgiveness of sins. After a few months, the weight of my sins grew unbearable. Conviction burned within me so greatly…the need for the Cross was undeniable. I knew in my gut that Jesus was the only way, but I just didn’t know how to connect with Him. I tried reciting the “Sinner’s Prayer,” but nothing changed. I prayed it 10+ times, but my addiction remained.

At my wit’s end, I went down to the altar at church one Sunday. “God, I can’t do this, but I know you can,” I prayed. “Come into my life and save me. I need you.” That was all it took. Up until that moment, I’d only spoken “vain repetitions” (Matthew 6:7), which Jesus warns against. As soon as I cried out in true faith and put my hope in Him, He saved me. I was so overwhelmed by His presence and love, I couldn’t stop crying. Finally, I was at peace. My battle was won and my soul was in His hands!

At the end of service, the pastor announced that they would hold baptisms the next Sunday. God planned it all out perfectly! So, the very next Sunday, I was baptized into the Body of Christ. Since then, I have found freedom from so many things, including porn and masturbation. The enemy has no hold on me anymore. In the name of Jesus, I have been set free!