Counsel #23 — Facing The Truth

Picture: Counsel #23 — Facing The TruthCLi 110.1

In the biblical book of Genesis, we find that humanity's sinful nature was a result of the fall of Adam and Eve. Because of their disobedience to God’s direct command, sin not only entered the world, but it has now caused every one of us to be more inclined to sin due to our flesh-based nature. Romans 3:23 says, "For all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God," which further depicts sin as a universal problem passed down from generations.CLi 110.2

We cannot live a righteous life without God’s direct influence and involvement in our lives. The wages of sin is death, but because of Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross, we still can be forgiven whenever we fall short of the glory of God — and that includes the sin of pornography viewing and addiction. If we acknowledge our sinfulness, repent, and seek God's help with our struggle, God will empower us to walk in the way He desires for us to follow.^{[102]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nsfOs0hVS_k}CLi 110.3

“The one who does what is sinful is of the devil, because the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil’s work.” 1 John 3:8 NIVCLi 110.4

“When the thought of evil is loved and cherished, however secretly, said Jesus, it shows that sin still reigns in the heart.” Ellen White in Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, p. 33CLi 110.5

Reflect: How can understanding your sinful nature help you better understand your struggle or addiction?CLi 110.6