Biblical Answer

Can a person still be a good Christian if they struggle with lust?

The Nature of Lust

Lust is a powerful and persistent appetite that is not easily managed, even by the most committed Christians. It is not a problem to be solved, but rather an appetite to be managed. Lust is a symptom of a deeper issue, a diseased heart lined with anger, guilt, and jealousy. This is why lust can be a particularly deadly path to tread, as it can lead to a range of other sins, including adultery, fornication, and even murder. The Bible teaches that lust is a sin that is just as serious as adultery, and that it can lead to spiritual death if left unchecked.

The Consequences of Unchecked Lust

The consequences of unchecked lust can be severe. If a person allows lust to dominate their life, they will be unable to experience the blessings of God, including peace and strength to walk with Him. In fact, the Bible teaches that if God frees a person from one sin, but they continue to struggle with lust, He will not hear from them again. This is why it is so important for Christians to mortify their lust, to bring it to the law of God and the love of Christ, and to condemn it. When a person comes to this state and condition, their lust will be executed to the uttermost, and they will be able to experience the blessings of God.

The Possibility of Being a Good Christian Despite Struggling with Lust

While it is true that lust can be a significant obstacle to a good Christian life, it is not impossible to overcome. However, it requires a deep commitment to following God's commands and living a life that reflects His values. This includes making no provision for the flesh, putting on the Lord Jesus Christ, and fleeing immorality. It also requires a willingness to confront the underlying issues of anger, guilt, and jealousy that are often at the root of lust. By doing so, a person can experience the blessings of God and live a life that is pleasing to Him, even if they struggle with lust. Ultimately, the key to overcoming lust is not to try and solve the problem, but to seek to obey God from the heart in all areas. This includes seeking to mortify lust, and to bring it to the law of God and the love of Christ, and to condemn it. When a person comes to this state and condition, their lust will be executed to the uttermost, and they will be able to experience the blessings of God.