Scripture Passage: “But put on the Lord Jesus Christ and make no provision for the flesh in regard to its lusts.” Romans 13:14
While researching our new book, A Courageous Identity, we identified the top five temptations facing young dads aged 18-35.
5) Vaping – today’s vapes (electronic cigarettes) are filled with much higher concentrations of THC, Delta 8, toxic heavy metals like lead, nickel, and antimony, which can cause cancer, respiratory illnesses, and neurological damage. Research indicates some disposables are more toxic than traditional cigarettes, with lead levels from one day’s use sometimes equaling 19 packs of cigarettes. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 “Don’t you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, for God bought you with a high price. So, you must honor God with your body.”
4) Online Betting – DraftKings, BETMGM, Kalshi, etc. These companies connect bank accounts and credit cards and push in-game betting, playing on fans’ emotions and addictions. Picture a young dad sitting on his couch. In a crucial period of the game, he receives a message on his phone informing him that he can double down on his bet and win even more money, even though his favorite team is losing at the moment. Proverbs 13:11 “Wealth from gambling quickly disappears; wealth from hard work grows.”
3) Binge Drinking – Fraternities and sporting events (pre-gaming) tempt young men to drink over their limit, often leading to struggles with alcoholism. Toxic masculinity proclaims, “Real men can hold their liquor!” Proverbs 20:1 “Wine is a mocker, intoxicating drink a brawler, and whoever is intoxicated by it is not wise.”
2) Loneliness – Many young dads, 18 – 35, struggle with having even one close friend with whom they can talk. Proverbs 18:24 “One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.”
1) Online Porn – In a previous generation, young men had to walk into a store and purchase a magazine. Today, with the click of a button, online pornography proliferates through thousands of XXX websites. Job 31:1 “I made a covenant with my eyes not to look lustfully at a young woman.”
To dive deeper into these issues and find hope, order our new book today: https://www.amazon.com/Courageous-Identity-Accepting-Christ-Centered-Masculinity/dp/B0FVRT3RBY/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0
© Dr. Paul Pettit
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Learn how to form teams of men for every widow, single mom
and fatherless child in your church at NewCommandment.org.
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