5 reasons why we need to address sexual objectification...

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​The fact is, our eyes and a discipline of them, can make a massive difference in our ability to be positioned for success.   Not to mention, objectification vilifies your view of the opposite sex and is very disrespectful.

So, unless you’ve moved under a rock, you can’t help but to notice that we are living in a day where sex is used to promote and sell almost anything.  With the physical and sexual exploitation of humanity in media, social media, and film, it becomes necessary for believers to become honest about the state of these times and strategic within them.  FACT:  I don’t care how long you’ve been in your relationship with God, no one is immune to falling victim to objectification and it's unchecked desires. This past weekend, I attended a men's conference and this topic was a rare inclusions within our discussions; furthermore, it was also a very important and in-depth moment of group share.  .
 
Are you striving to remain committed to morality?  Are you consistently failing?  Have you been struggling with an illicit longing to compromise your sanctity?   If you are, then you have to become aware of your vulnerability to the enemy and you must become connected, prayerful, and disciplined with your Savior.  For anyone who’s in the midst of such a challenging time, I’ve comprised this list of 5 simple and serious resolves to aid you in your fight against the temptation of sexual immorality.
 

• Pray against and avoid objectification:  Job was correct in his thinking when he made his covenant with his eyes (cf. Job 31:1).  The fact is, our eyes and a discipline of them, can make a massive difference in our ability to be positioned for success.   Not to mention, objectification vilifies your view of the opposite sex and is very disrespectful.
• Know that self-control is a virtue of the Spirit and possible with God:  I don’t care what anyone says, maintaining your virginity/celibacy is very possible for the child of God (cf. 1 Corinthians 7:36).  As we were endowed by God with His Holy Spirit at baptism, we were also empowered with an attribute of the Spirit known as “temperance” or “self-control.”  I will honestly admit that no one really controls what they desire (and only with God and time can they be changed for the better); however, we can (with Christ) control how we operate in spite of our lusts. 
• Sexual impurity damages the relationship that you have with your Savior:  In 1 Corinthians 6, we learn that the sins committed amidst sexual immorality are among the most perverse against our Savior, because these are deliberate violators of our temple.  Remember that your connection with Christ is a covenant.  Ensure to maintain your vows in the midst of your struggles. 
• Don’t be fooled, pornography is a problem:  Silently, secretly, and quietly pornography is killing a great portion of the people of God.  It creates an unrealistic expectation for the marital experience, it fosters a greater level of objectification, it betrays the trust of your spouse or significant other, and it is addictive.  Please ensure to visit this link if you or someone you know is currently battling a pornography addiction. 
• Marriage is Honorable (cf. Hebrews 13:4):  This is why you should only date to find a spouse.  Dating isn’t for fun; that’s what theme parks are for.  Dating is an opportunity for a man and a woman to get to know one another so that they might see if they are compatible for marriage.  If you seek to date for this fashion, your ability to approach the notion of marriage instead of fornication, becomes more appropriate.  LET ME BE CLEAR:  NO ONE SHOULD MARRY JUST FOR SEX.  However, if you find yourself dating a marriage candidate at length and your passions for one another are growing, then marriage is not only acceptable, but it’s also encouraged. 
  

Finally, know that accountability and transparency is a MUST!  This is without a doubt; after all, no one can make it alone (cf. Proverbs 27:17).  We are all in need of some measure of accountability and restoration (cf. James 5:16).
 
So, what did you think?  Was this helpful?  Which point registered with you the most?  Let me know your thoughts in the comments's below.  Thinking of a friend who could use this post?  Share it with them.  Also, subscribe to the blog. 

Imperfectly, 
Kevin D. Jones, Sr.
(@kevindjonessr)