Sexual Sanity for Men (2012) - David White

Sexual Sanity for Men: Re-Creating Your Mind in a Crazy Culture (2012) - David White

New Growth Press, 248 pages

Trade paperback, ISBN 9781936768998

Most books that deal with the topic of sexual sin in the lives of men seek to do so in practical ways, often giving tips on how to avoid temptation, what to do when you find yourself tempted, etc. Well-intentioned as they are, the problem with such books is that they’re ultimately works-based. “Here are some steps you can take, here’s what you can do.” Some of the advice from such books may be valid and even somewhat helpful, but in many cases, the authors and publishers ignore the root problem. 

White shows the reader that the real key to sexual sanity is not in following a process or working through a list of steps, but rather in clinging to the person and work of Jesus Christ. Christ’s power is the only way true sexual sanity - or really any victory over any sin - can be achieved. Make no mistake, this is a spiritual battle that affects all men (me included).  

The book is divided into four sections totaling 14 chapters or, as White recommends, 14 weeks of daily readings. The daily readings are only a few pages long with three or four questions for reflection each day. Some readers will want to follow White’s reading schedule. At the risk of becoming somewhat overwhelmed, others may want to read the book in larger chunks. 

Each reading is filled with Scripture, which is absolutely necessary, as White constantly reinforces the relationship of redemptive history to men’s struggles with sexual sin. Several reviewers have complained that the book doesn’t offer enough practical advice, not enough “dos and don’ts.” Yet White states over and over, 

“Genuine obedience only flows when we know that Jesus is the only one worth living for. We obey with joyful abandon only when our greatest joy and pleasure is satisfying him.” 

And we need constant reminders that nothing compares to a redemptive relationship with Christ:

“Think about it: Any object of your lust only mirrors in ridiculously puny ways the glory of our Creator. We lust because we catch a glimpse of God’s beauty in his creation, and then settle for worshipping that dim reflection instead of the real thing.” 

Is there anything negative to say about the book? Well, the cover is pretty hideous... But you’ll want to focus on what’s on the inside of the book. And speaking of the book, you might have a difficult time finding it. Right now, Amazon is offering only the eBook. You can find the book here at the Westminster Bookstore and (very soon) at the church Resource Center. 

Highest recommendation.