In Ezekiel 16:49-50, God describes the real sins of Sodom that led to the destruction of that city (in Genesis 19). Most of us have always associated Sodom with sodomy (homosexuality) and other sexual sins. But sexual sin was the ultimate result of a way of life.

What was it that led them into such depths of evil? Here we are told that Sodom's sins were actually:

- Pride

- Laziness

- Gluttony (love of good food) and

- Neglecting the poor and needy

These were the reason why God wiped out that city. It is interesting to note that God does not even mention their sexual sin.

Sexual sin in Sodom was the result of their lazy, comfortable life-style. What can we learn from this? That there is a close connection between:

* pride and sexual sin,

* laziness and sexual sin

* gluttony and sexual sin and

* a lack of concern for other people and sexual sin.

Consider just these four areas. Many of you who are young have to admit that you are finding it very difficult to overcome your sexual passions. That is an extremely difficult area. But why not begin by overcoming in these four easier areas? You may, then, find it easier to overcome in the sexual area.

Begin first of all, by humbling yourself in all situations. Avoid all arrogance.

Then begin to be hard-working and diligent in whatever you do.

Then try fasting - avoiding food - once in a while.

And fourthly, begin to think a little more about the needs of people around you and see how you can help them.

Try this prescription for one year and you may discover that overcoming your sexual passions becomes easier. We cannot overcome any sin without grace from God - but He gives His grace only to the humble; and He helps only those who are kind and helpful to others.