One of the most alarming trends I’ve observed is the increase in pornography use, particularly among young people. This isn't just an issue affecting a select few—it’s something that’s woven into the very fabric of our society. But as Christians, we must stand firm and reclaim our hearts and minds for God.
A Growing Concern
A recent report from Barna and Pure Desire, two organizations dedicated to understanding and combating pornography addiction, reveals that 61% of Americans now view pornography at least occasionally, up from 55% in 2015. This trend isn’t just affecting men—44% of women now admit to viewing porn, a significant increase from previous years. Even within the church, the statistics are troubling: 67% of pastors have reported a personal history of porn use, and nearly 1 in 5 currently struggle with it. These numbers are heartbreaking.
You may wonder, as I have, why this is happening. One major reason is the ease of access. With the internet in our pockets, it’s never been easier to access explicit material. And let’s not forget the social isolation brought on by events like the COVID-19 pandemic, which left many people turning to pornography to fill a void.
The Impact on Our Youth
As a mother, one of the things that hit me the hardest is how young our children are being exposed to pornography. Research now shows that the average age of first exposure is just 12 years old. This exposure is shaping the minds of our children in ways we can’t even fully understand yet. The report from Barna found that 39% of Gen Z adults view pornography daily or weekly. This isn’t just about curiosity—it's a serious issue that can affect their mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being for years to come.
Is It Really a Big Deal?
Some might say, “What’s the harm?” The troubling part of the Barna report is that many Christians don’t see an issue with it. Over 62% of Christians believe that someone can view pornography regularly and still live a sexually healthy life. But I can tell you, based on my experience and the testimonies of countless others, that’s far from the truth.
Pornography is addictive. The more you consume, the more it alters your brain, desensitizing you to real intimacy and love. The Barna study found that those who use porn regularly were much more likely to report feelings of anxiety, self-criticism, and depression. This isn’t just about sex—it’s about mental and emotional health, too.
A Battle for the Mind and Heart
The Bible tells us in Romans 12:2, "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." This is the heart of the issue. Pornography is part of the world’s pattern—it’s everywhere, it’s normalized, and it’s something people turn to in moments of weakness or loneliness. But as Christians, we are called to a higher standard.
One of the most important things I’ve learned in my journey is the power of community. When we’re struggling, we need a safe space where we can be honest about our battles. That’s why churches need to offer resources and support groups for those struggling with pornography, much like they would for any other addiction. Pretending it’s not a problem only deepens the shame and makes healing harder.
What Can We Do?
So, where do we go from here? First, we need to be honest with ourselves and with God. If you or someone you know is struggling with pornography, acknowledge it. Shame and secrecy only keep the cycle going. Jesus tells us in Matthew 5:8, "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God." Purity isn’t just about what we do with our bodies; it’s about our minds and hearts as well.
Second, we need to talk to our children. It’s no longer enough to assume they’ll learn about sex from the right sources. We have to be proactive in teaching them about God’s design for love and intimacy, and why pornography distorts that. Parents, it’s up to us to model healthy relationships and guide our children with love and wisdom.
Let’s be a light in this dark world, showing others that purity, healing, and true intimacy are possible through Christ. Together, we can reclaim our hearts and minds for God.