“Brethren, even if anyone is caught in any trespass, you who are spiritual, restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness; each one looking to yourself, so that you too will not be tempted. Bear one another’s burdens, and thereby fulfill the law of Christ” (Gal 6:1-2).

Often times young people who are struggling to overcome a sinful habit retreat from their churches for fear of being judged. And to a certain extent, they may be right. But it doesn’t have to be this way! Recently I had the privilege of participating at a boys’ conference devoted to the challenges of pornography addictions.We spoke openly about the struggles, and encouraged the young people to seek out godly mentors in their churches with whom they can share their struggles, and from whom they can receive loving accountability. Perhaps it had never occurred to them that church was supposed to be the place to expose our sins, rather than the place to hide it. Seeing their faces, however, it was clear to me this idea was incredibly liberating, and provided them with much needed hope to discover true freedom in Christ.

Dear friends, may our churches become places where struggling believers run to, and not from, whenever they need help!

“Therefore, confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another so that you may be healed” (James 5:16).