For the world offers only a craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything we see, and pride in our achievements and possessions. These are not from the Father, but are from this world. ~ 1 John 2:16 (NLT)
Locker room talk has existed for centuries. (For those that don’t know what that is, it is when guys get together to share their latest sexual conquest or fantasy.) The reason it’s called “locker room” talk is because that is where the conversations usually happen. Think about it. A bunch of young men, testosterone flowing, competitiveness in full gear, and no one around to listen in on the conversation. So it starts with one, then others join in. They talk about the girl they desire. They describe (often times in detail) their fantasy. The other guys listen in and, in their own way, cheer him on. Then, someone else shares. Then someone else. I know, because I was there in high school, in the middle of these conversations.
These days, this type of conversation isn’t just limited to the locker room. Indeed, these conversations happen in the halls and rooms of dormitories or frat houses. These conversations happen in virtual spaces, where pictures can be shared of the latest fantasy. It’s everywhere.
Before anyone thinks I’m just picking on guys, I know that girls sometimes do this, too. But, by and large, it is the male of the species that spreads this type of message. And, most guys think it’s just harmless talk – some fun between friends. No one takes it seriously. I used to think that, too. But, here’s something most guys don’t want to hear. God takes it very seriously.
A large portion of Scripture is dedicated to this topic because, since the beginning of sin, lust has been a huge issue. And, this verse, written by the Disciple John, hammers it home. This type of talk, even these types of lustful thoughts, are not from God, but from the world. In other words, locker room talk is satanic. It not only degrades others by making them into a sexual object, rather than a person, it also corrupts the way we think. When our mind is saturated by thoughts that are not godly, then our lives become ungodly.
So, here’s a challenge. Man up! (Or, woman up!) When you hear this type of talk, shut it down. Stand up for what is right. When these thoughts enter your mind, pray to God that He would reset your thoughts to align with His. Insist on God’s way, not the world’s.
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