The Cost of Compromise [EDIT]

Today I heard a great sermon (which can be found here) preached by Pastor Ramiah about "The Cost of Compromise" based on the story of Solomon with his 700 wives and 300 concubines. I love how this whole week God has been speaking to me about relationships, marriage, commitment, discipline, dicernment, and contentment. Learning how I, as a man, ought to prayerfully pursue the right woman i.e. a woman who has an intense love for God and the proclamation of the Gospel.

As a joke I mentioned to Pastor, "Solomon had 700 wives, 300 concubines, but no one ever mentions that he could had 1400 in laws!"

And here I am... looking for just one woman, no concubines, and at least two in laws! Haha

But in all seriousness, I currently struggle with compromise. It's the little things, you know? The stolen glances, the thoughts that flood my mind. Battling the flesh like crazy.

Along with that, I had a conversation with my sister about skeletons in ones closet and addictions.

"We all have skeletons. Even I got things I don't want my future spouse to know. Or even future girlfriend. If they knew... I know they wouldn't want anything to do with me."

Then I asked her, "Do you believe someone can become addicted to pornography? Could you date someone, let's say he's a Christian too, who struggles, but is also trying to quit his addiction to porn?"

Her answer, "No. I think that addiction is different. It's not like a drug or beer. I  mean, if he has someone like me, why would he want to look at other women? He should be satisfied with me, right? "

"Well," I said solemnly, "Now you know my struggle."

She could only look at me with a glare that spoke, "You're joking right?" A glare which turned into one part confusion and two parts disgusts, and a third part sadness.

"Now, you know. Now, you understand my struggle."

[EDIT]

A comment conversation from FB about the blog:

"Your sister is living proof that a wife will raise the bar for her husband.  Praise God that you have such a sibling.  I'm sure that was difficult u."

"Honestly, Eddie, it wasn't. It was almost like I knew where the conversation was going so I let it be. I honestly wanted her to hear that yes, her brother stuggles, but it does not define him. Christ defines him.

I didn't mention that during the convo we were in the car and mom... was in the back seat, silently listening.

Now that I think about it, I utterly hate my sin! I want to be able, with a clear conscience speak to my future spouse and not be ashamed every time I'm in front of a woman, worried that I might turn her into an object of my disgusting flesh.

I know this isnt me talking but the prompting of the Holy Spirit convicting me and yet bringing refreshement to my soul.

I guess the saying is true. Confession IS good for the soul."