10 Effective Ways to Overcome the Spirit of Delusion

Determining or mapping your triggers can be difficult when beginning recovery. For many years my life was built on a bed of lies that gave me comfort and allowed me to continue in my addiction to porn.

Here are a few of my misguided beliefs that kept me bound:

1.“Once I get married, I won’t need to watch porn anymore.”

2.  “Using internet filters can curb and totally cure my addiction.”

3.  “Pornography makes me feel desired without having anyone physically desiring me.”

4.  “There’s no way out. I will NEVER be free!”

Does any of those excuses sound familiar to you? Have you ever told yourself any of these lies to justify your addiction? If not, what lies are you telling or have told yourself?

In today's fast-paced world, where information is abundant and pornography is easily accessed, it can be challenging to discern the truth from delusion.

The Bible warns us in 2 Thessalonians 2:11 about the danger of being led astray by false beliefs, stating, "For this reason God sends them a powerful delusion so that they will believe the lie."

Overcoming the spirit of delusion is crucial for living a life free from porn addiction. A life rooted in truth and aligned with God's word, that’s true freedom.

In this blog post, we will explore ten effective strategies that will help you to overcome the spirit of delusion, by offering practical tips and biblical examples for each.

What is a trigger?

A trigger is an experience that makes you feel antsy or withdrawn. It’s the alarm that goes off inside of you. It can be in the form of a flashback which takes you back to a place or time of a traumatic event that is deeply connected or tied to your emotions.

Something happens that causes you get in your feelings. Your feelings will cause you to act out. Unhealthy actions can propel you deeper into your relapse. What do you do when this happens?

1. Seek Wisdom and Discernment

The first step to overcoming delusion is seeking wisdom and discernment.

• Pray for wisdom: Make it a daily habit to ask God for wisdom and discernment.

• Study the Bible: Regularly read and meditate on scripture to deepen your understanding and build a more intimate relationship with your Heavenly Father.

Proverbs 4:7 states, "The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding." Wisdom allows you to see beyond the surface and discern the truth. This awareness helps you to identify exactly where you are and how you can move forward, continuing recovery.

2. Cultivate a Humble Heart

Pride can lead to delusion by making us believe we know it all. "God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble." James 4:6

• Acknowledge limitations: Regularly reflect on areas where you need growth.

• Seek feedback: Be open to constructive criticism from others

3. Engage in Community

Isolation can increase susceptibility to delusion. Engaging in a community allows you to share your perspectives and challenge your beliefs through healthy dialogue. Having the proper support group or accountability partner can make all the difference in your recovery.

• Join a study group: Participate in Bible studies or faith-based discussion groups.

• Attend church regularly: Engage with a community of believers for support and accountability

If you are looking for support, CLICK HERE.

4. Use Spiritual Awareness

Spiritual awareness is essential for evaluating information and distinguishing truth from falsehood. “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” Philippians 4:8

• Evaluate sources: Consider the credibility of the sources you consume.

• Ask questions: Challenge assumptions and seek evidence for claims made.

5. Embrace a Spirit of Gratitude

Gratitude shifts focus from what is lacking to what is present, reducing the likelihood of delusion by fostering contentment. "Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." 1 Thessalonians 5:18

• Keep a gratitude journal: Write down daily blessings and thank God for them.

• Express appreciation: Regularly thank those around you for their support and kindness.

Maintain a grateful heart, acknowledge God's sovereignty and eventually receive restoration.

6. Stay Grounded in Truth

Delusion often stems from a distorted perception of reality. Staying grounded involves honestly acknowledging where you are in the present and accepting that position.

• Spiritual reflection: Engage in activities with others who are likeminded in maintaining the truth.

• Set realistic goals: Align your expectations with current your abilities and resources

When falling into temptation, acknowledge where your feelings. Either out loud to God (who already knows anyway) or to your trusted ally. Trust in God's power, by staying grounded in truth while acting in faith. Proverbs 3:5-8

7. Prioritize Truth Over Comfort

Sometimes, delusion arises from a desire to avoid discomfort. Believing a lie can be a lot more comfortable than accepting the truth. "Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." John 8:32

Face difficult truths: Be willing to confront uncomfortable realities.

Embrace challenges: Use obstacles as opportunities for growth and learning

Despite knowing the pain of the cross, Jesus embraced the truth of His mission, prioritizing it over personal comfort. And I am so glad that He did! Aren’t you?

8. Develop Inner Peace

Understanding and managing your emotions can prevent them from clouding judgment and leading to delusion. There is value in self-control.

• Reflect on emotions: Take time to identify and understand your feelings.

• Practice empathy: Consider others' perspectives to enhance emotional awareness.

"Better a patient person than a warrior, one with self-control than one who takes a city." Proverbs 16:32

9. Focus on Building a Loving Relationship with God

A focused mind is less likely to fall prey to delusion. As the saying goes, “An idle mind is the devil’s workshop.”

• Make time: Carve out a consistent time of day to meditate on His word and promises.

• Limit distractions: STOP MAKING EXCUSES! Create an environment that will foster and limit distractions

10. Stay Anchored in Faith and Hope

Faith provides a strong foundation against delusion. Mixed with hope we gain the confidence and assurance we need to in the things we cannot see. Hebrews 11:1

• Regular prayer: Deepen your relationship with God through consistent communication.

• Trust in God's promises: Meditate on scripture to strengthen your faith.

Overcoming delusion is a journey that requires intentional effort and reliance on God's truth. By incorporating these strategies into your life, you can cultivate a mindset that discerns truth from falsehood, leading to a more authentic and fulfilling existence.

As you reflect on these strategies, consider the following questions:

• How can you better integrate these practices into your daily routine?

• In what ways can you encourage others to walk in the truth of God's word

The key to overcoming delusion lies in continually seeking and embracing God’s truth, allowing it to shape your inner being, actions, thoughts, and relationships. Until next time, as always, “Make it GREAT! And remember covered wounds cannot heal!”