Articles

“I Thought I Just Needed to Pray Harder” – An LDS Man’s Battle with Pornography Addiction


*The name and identifying information about this individual has been redacted to protect their privacy.

 

For years, I lived with a secret struggle that weighed heavily on my heart. As a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, I believed I was doing everything right to overcome my addiction to pornography. I prayed fervently, fasted often, and immersed myself in scripture study, hoping these acts of devotion would be enough to deliver me. But the addiction didn’t go away, and I began to question everything I thought I knew about my faith, myself, and my relationship with Heavenly Father.

My addiction wasn’t just a personal failure—it felt like a spiritual betrayal. I thought, If I just pray harder or read my scriptures more diligently, surely the Lord will help me overcome this. But no matter how hard I tried, I kept falling. I began to feel distant from my Heavenly Father and ashamed to approach Him. I worried that my priesthood service wasn’t valid because I was so unworthy. It was a dark and lonely place, filled with shame and confusion.

Eventually, I realized something had to change. I wasn’t finding freedom, and the cycle of shame and secrecy was eating away at my confidence as a husband, father, and priesthood holder. That’s when I learned about SABR.

At first, I hesitated to reach out for help. I thought seeking professional support was a sign of spiritual weakness. But one day, while studying Ether 12:26-27, the Spirit softened my heart. I realized that my weakness wasn’t a punishment but an opportunity to be humble. I finally saw that Heavenly Father wasn’t asking me to do this alone. Instead, He wanted me to trust Him enough to seek help from those He had prepared to guide me.

SABR became the answer to my prayers. Through the program, I understood that my addiction wasn’t just a moral failing; it was a complex issue requiring both spiritual and practical tools to overcome. For the first time, I felt hopeful.

Since joining SABR, my life has transformed. I’m currently finishing Phase Two of the program, and I can’t believe how much I didn’t know before. SABR taught me about boundaries, accountability, and the importance of community in recovery. But more importantly, it gave me the skills to align my life with the gospel and live with integrity.

I feel like a new man—confident in my priesthood service, at peace with myself, and closer to Heavenly Father than I’ve ever been. My marriage has also been renewed. My wife and I have rebuilt trust, and our relationship is stronger than it’s ever been. I now approach my role as a father with clarity and purpose, knowing I’m equipped to lead my family with love and righteousness.

Moving Forward in Faith

Looking back, I see that seeking help wasn’t a sign of weakness—it was an act of faith. Through humility and trust in Heavenly Father’s plan, I found the guidance I needed to overcome my struggles. The joy I now feel is indescribable. As I move into the next phase of my journey, I’m excited to continue growing and learning, knowing that the Lord has been with me every step of the way.


Family Strategies Counseling Center has actively serviced clients since 2000 in treatment for pornography addiction or sexually compulsive behavior. Our SABR program for adults and Valor Groups for young men can help you! Give us a call at (800) 614-8142 or visit our website for more information: Family Strategies Counseling Center.

Top of Form

Bottom of Form

 

Fill Out Form
Would you like to speak privately with someone?