Justifications for Remaining in a Circle of Sin
Sometimes a person knows there is a door that leads them to sin, yet they continue searching for justifications to keep it open. For example, they might say: "Social media contains reminders, I maintain ties of kinship through it, I follow news about Muslims, and I benefit from it."
On the surface, these words sound good, but be honest with yourself: Has its benefit upon you outweighed its harm?
The Story of the Brother Who Repented from Pornography and the Devil’s Traps
In the story of a brother who repented from pornography, when he sincerely wanted to distance himself from everything that led him to that sin, the first thing that came to mind was social media. He asked himself honestly: "What do I actually gain from it?"
When he decided to delete it, the devil began reminding him of its supposed benefits! Suddenly, the devil started guiding him toward what seemed good, saying: "You’ll miss a reminder, you’ll neglect maintaining ties of kinship, and you won’t comfort fellow Muslims." Here is the lesson, my brothers and sisters: If something is clearly a door to your sin, do not deceive yourself with its perceived benefits.
The Sacred Principle in Dealing with Trials
The well-known sacred principle states: "Repelling harm takes precedence over bringing benefit."
Yes, you may return to some of these means later, but only after you have grown stronger, set clear boundaries, and entered them deliberately—not like a drowning person dragged by the current.
So do not justify the causes of trial by saying, "There is good in it." Instead, ask yourself honestly:
- Am I truly using it for good?
- Or am I using the good in it as an excuse to stay close to temptation?