Lust is a problem.

James 1:14-15 tells us that

^“each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own lust and enticed. Then the lust, when it has conceived, bears sin. The sin, when it is full grown, produces death.”

So, lust tempts us, then becomes our sin, and then leads to our death.

Lust accurately describes our struggle with pornography and sex. So, we try to not lust with limited success at best.

We need to focus on what we will do instead of what not to do. Do the opposite of lust.

What is the opposite of lust?

Ephesians 5 gives us the answer. Verses 2 through 7 focus on not even hinting at sexual immorality, obscenity, coarse joking, impurity, and greed. All of these are types of lust. Right in the middle of this passage there is a word that seems out of place.

In the list of these things a Christian should not do there is one word saying what should be done. Take a look:

“among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people.  Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk, or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving.  For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure, or greedy person—such a person is an idolater—has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. (Emphasis mine.)”

The opposite of lust is thanksgiving.

Makes sense. Lust is an intense focus on or desire for what you do not have. You think you should have it or deserve it or need it.

If you are focused on thanksgiving, you are focused on what you do have and how glad you are to have it.

The next time you are facing lust as in a temptation for pornography or sexual activity, stop and start focusing on what you do have and thank God for it. Being thankful may be your long-lost answer to defeat pornography.