I recently heard an online message from Tony Evans describing that God is like a “Jack in the Box” for many of us. We let Him pop up when it suits our needs.
Oh, I was good at church on Sundays. Sure, God anything you say. That lasted for a few hours, then I would get bored, the mind would wander, insecure feelings would take over and Walla, I am back seeking out pleasure. The problem with the pleasure was that it was a habitual sexual sin. I could say yes to God for a few hours and on a good week even a few days. I would repent of my sins. But then I would stuff God back into the “Jack in the Box” and handle my insecurities the addictive way again and again.
But you know, even though I was stuffing God in that “Jack in the Box” … well at least in my mind, God never left my side. He has always been there. Instead of seeking God’s help during my temptation, I would leave God in my box.
True recovery is a process. It is a daily fight. It involves spending time with God every day. It involves turning those negative thoughts into Jesus’ thoughts. It might even require you making a phone call to a trusted friend and praying together. It also requires knowing where you are most vulnerable and staying away from those locations, people, websites, alone times, etc.
This “Jack in the Box” illustration is just a reminder. Pushing God away delays recovery. It is like saying “hey God, I will get back with you later after I satisfy this sexual desire”. I am here to tell you that true healing starts with God and God only. “Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us …” Ephesians 3:20.
My question to you is how bad do you want to beat Sexual Addiction? How far are you willing to go to make it happen? “I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death … Philippians 3:10
It is time to STOP stuffing God back into that “Jack in the Box”! Put your faith and trust in Him. Ask Him for help!! … “no weapon forged against you will prevail” … Isaiah 54:17a
AMEN!!!
dgh