Does He Need to Talk to His Bishop?

Dear Bro Jo,

I haven't been sexually pure for the past couple of months.

I haven't done anything with anyone, however I have been viewing pornography and masturbating.

This is a little awkward.

I'm so sorry for what I have done and have prayed to God not only for repentance but also for help in dealing with this.

However I want to know how grave of a sin is this and do I need to see the Bishop?

I have read many of your post regarding this topic, yet I didn't feel like they really answered my question (if you have it would be awesome if you could direct me to it).

Thank you so much for taking the time to read and answer my question.

-Unsure

P.S. I don't know if this helps but when ever I do masturbate it is when I'm feeling lonely and vulnerable




Dear Unsure,

Yes, go see the Bishop.

Whenever we're unsure it's always better to have the talk than to not.

And, brother, you're headed down a dark path from which no joy will come if you don't make some changes.

Knowing your triggers helps avoid the situation.

The next step is to have a plan of action when those feelings come.

Get away from the computer.

Go out in public.

Take a run in the park.

Go outside.

Get fresh air and exercise.

Call a friend.

Go be of service to someone.

You're not a bad guy, you just need a little help right now.  That's nothing to be ashamed of.

So go make the appointment.

Avoiding pornography . . . controlling the natural man . . . will help you to feel the Spirit; and when we feel the Spirit it's easier to deal with loneliness and vulnerability.

- Bro Jo