What’s the big deal if I view porn? It doesn’t hurt anyone.
Imagine for a moment that a friend or family member of yours is lying in a lovely netted hammock on a beautiful summer day taking a nap. While they rest, you come and begin slowly clipping the threads of the hammock. You think to yourself, “one little snip, what harm will that have?” What seems like an innocent, benign behavior eventually leads to your friend taking a tumble, potentially harming not only them but the relationship too.
The topic of pornography today is seen through mixed messaging, but the statistics are alarming. On one hand, society says pornography use is no big deal. You aren’t really harming anyone! On the flip side, the Christian circles share a different mixed message. The Church often induces shame by talking about pornography use as a horrible sin. Sexual sin is no doubt a dysfunctional behavior. What the Church does that gets interesting is pointing out the behavior but failing to be in the trenches with those who suffer, as if to say, “Good luck with that buddy.” For those within the Church who have the power to make a change, be the voice that says it is okay to walk with someone in their mess. Nothing is quite as isolating as hearing someone tell you to “sin no more” and tells you to do it all on your own. The experiences of sexual addiction require community and connection.
If we look back at how pornography impacts other people, it becomes apparent that viewing pornography or acting out sexually can impact our relationships. First, it impacts our relationship with ourselves. What might satisfy our immediate pleasure can often leave a long-lasting pain. Second, while we may never meet the individuals in the films being watched, we do play a part in an industry that takes advantage of people. Lastly, addiction and withdrawal, much like withdrawal to alcohol, can result in strong emotional responses. After viewing porn, the user might feel tired or shameful. Occasionally one might lash out for little things or feel worse about themselves. Here we come full circle. What might be seen as a personal hobby or something done in secret actually has a broad impact on our community, locally and globally.
If you’re reading this today and find that you no longer want porn use to remain a secret or that you want to restore relationships in your life, get ahold of me. I’m here to help! Local to Greenville, SC, stop by. If you find yourself too far for a drive, I’ve got you covered with virtual services.