How can I stop masturbating?
Dear Gramps,
This is probably the most uncomfortable question I have ever asked or said. But, I started masturbating before becoming a member and out of ignorance and curiosity. I feel as though my agency to act has been decreased at times, and I want that back.
-Wondering
Wondering,
Self-stimulation can be addictive. It is also a function of lust. Lust has no cure to its cravings. By stark contrast, love is beautiful and full of joy!
When one is caught in an addictive cycle, it is important to know how you are feeling before such cravings and feelings come to you. Are you feeling lonely? Depressed? Or just excited?
We live in a sexually charged world. From the media to today’s “acceptable” fashions, it’s too easy to have these feelings and cravings tempt you.
The first step is to help limit the influence and exposure of such images. Have a filter put on your computer and block the channels you need on your television.
The second step is to remember that you are a Child of God with infinite worth! It’s nearly impossible to commit a serious sin when you understand your spiritual worth.
Counsel with your Bishop to help with your spiritual cleansing.
A personal idea for you is to join and sing in your ward choir every week. I know that those hymns that you sing in the choir will stay in your mind throughout the week. This will help you resist cravings and temptations that come to your mind.
There isn’t a cure for this. Sober alcoholics are still alcoholics, and will tell you so. We are created to be sexual beings. We just need to bridle our passions for the proper time. That time is when we are married to our spouse.
Hope this helps some.
Wondering,
The addiction of masturbation is more addicting then any other addiction there is. I can promise you through prayer and obedience, the Lord will heal you and take these cravings away from your mind. You have to give yourself to him and allow him to guide you in study and prayer. These thoughts and actions can be wiped away in a twinkling of an eye I promise you that. The gift of repentance is truly a gift and a miracle and works! On your computer, as your screen saver, put a picture of the Temple as a reminder that when you enter that world you have a choice the Lord or the Adversary. Trust me, at a point in my life, I never,ever thought for one moment I could tackle it. I thought to myself, will I ever be active in the church and be worthy of the sacrament and honor my priesthood. Not in a million years. The Lord invited me back and I took him up on his invitation, not only do I take the sacrament, I got to baptize my son, ordain him to the priesthood, and I am a worthy recommend temple holder. I love the temple and i’m so thankful to be able to receive it’s blessings. I never thought this could be possible as i was so caught up in sin. My life has changed forever, and yours can too.