Sexual Addictions

Here's an excerpt from an email I received today. I am posting it (maintaining confidentiality) for two reasons. One, so God can touch those of you who read it and are in similar circumstances and as He moves in you to send your comments this couple can be encouraged. Two, if any of you know of any good contacts in the Pittsburgh area please forward them to 'Etsah Ministries so we can link up the people there.

"I have a couples ministry and one of the couples is struggling with sexual addiction porn/masturbation. His wife is just giving up because she feels there is no real help for her situation and she doesn't believe her husband is repentant enough. Is there an 'Etsah Ministries in the Pittsburgh area that you can refer us to that will deal with the issue head on?"

Here's an excerpt from our reply that we sent to this person who has the coples ministry:
"Unfortunately at this point we are located only in Lancaster County, PA. However I do travel around the world doing equipping workshops and tie in family interventions and counseling when I do. Check out our website and see if there might be a fit to schedule a trip to Pittsburgh. I also do a lot of initial stuff over the phone and have had people travel from up to 5 hours away to come to one of our group counseling sessions and have a one on one."

"The key in ministering into sexual addictions such as porn/masturbation is to view it as sin and I utilize 1Thessalonians 4:3-8 for God's Word on the issue.
God says His will for us is sanctification, abstaining from sexual immorality.
He says we should know how to possess our own vessel in sanctification and honor, not in passion of lust like those who don't know Him.
He reminds us that He has called us to holiness, not uncleanness.
A good teaching on this subject is in Chapter 17 of my book From Addict to Disciple."