For the Strength of Youth: A Guide for Making Choices, pp. 19-20; Matthew 5: 27-28; Doctrine and Covenants 63: 16

 

How are your choices better because of what you learned from the prophet-king David's wrong choices?

"What is pornography? Why should I avoid it? Pornography is a representation, in pictures or words, that is designed to arouse sexual feelings. Pornography comes in many forms, including videos, pictures, books, and music. It can also be messages or images sent between friends. Pornography treats things that are sacred—our physical bodies and sexual feelings—with disrespect. You may come across pornography without meaning to. Whether you come across pornography intentionally or not, turn away immediately. You may also want to talk with a parent or other trusted adult. Intentionally viewing pornography is sinful and harms your ability to feel the Spirit. It weakens your self-control and distorts the way you see yourself and others. Jesus Christ has the power to help you resist pornography and repent. Turn toward Him; turn away from darkness. Your bishop can help you receive strength and forgiveness through the Savior." (For the Strength of Youth: A Guide for Making Choices, pp. 19-20)

"27 ¶ Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery:

28 But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart." (Matthew 5: 27-28)

"16 And verily I say unto you, as I have said before, he that looketh on a woman to lust after her, or if any shall commit adultery in their hearts, they shall not have the Spirit, but shall deny the faith and shall fear." (Doctrine and Covenants 63: 16)

And here's the end part of the commentary entitled: "I can avoid sexual sin." :

• "Read pages 19–20 of For the Strength of Youth: A Guide for Making Choices. Then write your own explanation of what pornography is, why it is dangerous, and what you will do when you encounter it. (See also Matthew 5:27–28 and Doctrine and Covenants 63:16.)

• How would you explain to a friend why you choose to avoid pornography and live the law of chastity? What insights could you share from “Your Body Is Sacred” in For the Strength of Youth: A Guide for Making Choices (pages 22–29)?

• Consider watching the video “To Look Upon” (Gospel Library). Pause the video each time that David could have made a different choice. How are David’s choices similar to choices you might face?

See also Bradley R. Wilcox, “Worthiness Is Not Flawlessness,” Liahona, Nov. 2021, 61–67; “Pornography” in the “Life Help” collection of the Gospel Library."

We can always make up our minds to be strong against temptations by choosing not to look upon pornography long before the temptation arises. Then when the temptation comes it's so easy to not give in to it because we already set our intention.