Seeking Christ over the Darkness of Pornography

In planning articles for young adults, we spend a lot of time thinking about the many issues they are facing now. But as we were brainstorming for this month, we were led to a topic that has affected us, our friends, and countless others: dating and pornography. We knew that planning this section was going to be tough. Pornography affects so many people in heartbreaking, sometimes life-shattering, ways. And for young single adults, it can make the future seem even more uncertain than it already does, especially in preparing for marriage. But our perspective changed.

We truly saw Heavenly Father’s hand guiding our work as we started receiving stories from young adults whose relationships have been affected by pornography. And we see now that there is more than just a glimmer of hope for happy, pornography-free eternal marriages. Why? Because every single story testifies of the healing power of Jesus Christ and His Atonement.

So we invite you to read this month’s articles, shared vulnerably by others who know that the struggle against pornography is real. You will learn how to bring up pornography when you’re dating and how to address it (page 68). You can read one man’s story of how he and his girlfriend found true healing (page 74), as well as six truths to remember when pornography affects your dating relationship (page 78). You can read Corrine’s story of why she chose to marry a recovering pornography addict (digital only). And in more digital articles, you can read about forgiveness, healing, changed hearts, how the Spirit can guide you, and more.

We know that if you rely on the Savior and invite the Spirit into your life as you seek answers, Heavenly Father will lead you in the right direction for your unique situation. The darkness of pornography may be prominent in the world, but the Savior’s healing light outshines any darkness. All we have to do is seek Him.

Sincerely,

Chakell Wardleigh and Mindy Selu

Church Magazines young adult section editors