You may feel today's topic of conversation far more sobering than usual. It's really the black sheep or runt of the litter you would rather keep out of mind. You may feel like Ebenezer Scrooge when the Angel of Christmas Present revealed the twin children of greed and neglect from beneath his robe. Scrooge would do anything to not look at them-- to not deal with them. But try as he would, the societal problems remained.
At issue is pornography. A recent study indicates nearly 100 percent of teenagers are exposed to pornography before exiting high school. If you've ever watched a James Bond movie, seen a magazine in a grocery store check out line, or viewed a hamburger commercial you'll understand the statistic. Many try to avoid the subject hoping to wash their hands of the situation, but scrub as they will the inside of their cup remains what It is while the outside looks presentable.
If anyone has been captured by this malignant mole there is no secular escape. Although helpful, the Internet filters, self-help books, and checklists of life changing procedures don't solve the dilemma of the dirty inner cup. No mountain or hill can hide or fix what was partaken. Like always, the real solution is found in the Savior of the world. And it begins with faith in Him.
Do we really believe Jesus Christ understands our temptations (Alma 7:11-12)? Do we believe he took our transgressions upon Him (Isaiah 53:5)? Do we believe His blood can purge our conscience to serve the living God (Hebrews 9:14)? Do we believe through Christ we can forget the shame of our youth (Isaiah 54:4)? In each case I answer unequivocally in the affirmative.
Keep in mind we can believe all we want, but it is when we do we start acting in faith (James 1:22-25).
"No, it's not without recognition of life's tempests but fully and directly because of them that I testify of God's love and the Savior's power to calm the storm"-- Jeffrey R. Holland.
I love you!
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