Welcome to episode #249! 🎙️ Pure Victory Podcast: Back Up the Bus- Finding Freedom Before the Crash
Most of us only think about the moment we fall into porn—the crash, the shame, the aftershock. But what if victory isn’t found in the moment of temptation… but two steps before it? In this episode, we unpack the power of “backing up the bus”—learning to slow down, name what’s really going on inside, and invite God into the places we usually ignore. Awareness isn’t just helpful… it’s transformative.

Join us as we explore why temptation rarely begins at the screen, how to spot your internal warning signs, and how Jesus meets us long before the crash.

Key Takeaways

• Temptation is usually the end of the chain, not the beginning. By the time you’re at the screen, the “bus” has already been rolling for a while.
• Awareness is curative. When you learn to name your stress, loneliness, exhaustion, or overwhelm, you can short-circuit the cycle before it escalates.
• Most porn use is rooted in emotion. Loneliness, rejection, boredom, pain, anxiety, or just running on fumes—these are often the real triggers.
• You can’t surrender what you won’t name. Healing begins with honest reflection—journaling, slowing down, and inviting Jesus into the pre-temptation moments.
• Community is essential. We can’t see our own blind spots; we need mentors, brothers and sisters in Christ, structure, and support.
• Freedom grows when we stop focusing only on the “crash” and start observing the road leading up to it.

Scripture Highlight

Genesis 4:6–7
Then the Lord said to Cain, “Why are you angry? Why is your face downcast? … Sin is crouching at your door; it desires to have you, but you must rule over it.”

God lovingly warns Cain before the devastation—not at the moment of the act. This is the call to “back up the bus”: pause, notice, name what’s happening inside, and choose a different road.

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Resources

FamilyLife Canada: Porn Recovery Resources

FamilyLife Canada: Resources and events to strengthen your marriage

Online marriage resources (FamilyLife Canada)

Covenant Eyes Accountability Software - use promo code FLCANADA for 30 days free
Pure Freedom Community for men 18+
Book a FREE call (men)
Pure Freedom Journey for men and women

Podcast Host

BRADEN HAFNER

Braden is the Regional Director in Alberta for FamilyLife Canada. He and his wife Kristen live in Edmonton, Alberta. He knows all too well the destruction that porn use and addiction can have, and now wants to see people experience freedom away from porn. Along with that he is passionate about seeing marriages grow and thrive, and helping couples move to a deeper oneness with one another and with God. FamilyLife Canada has a variety of resources and events to help you and your spouse take your marriage to the next level. See what would benefit you at www.familylifecanada.com