Regarding homosexuality, there are countless numbers of former homosexuals. So they were able to not only renounce same sex sodomy acts, but also focusing on such acts in their minds, to one degree or another. It is a simple fact that when we “entertain” thoughts, they stick around. If such thoughts are like unwanted visitors, we show them the door. The mind is not always easy to tame, but we can change our thoughts to a large degree by what we focus on. And when we continually dwell on subject matter, we generally wind up acting on such thoughts.
If someone struggling with homosexual desires continues to watch or look at homosexual porn, go to homosexual bars, read books about the “gay” life and hangs out with those practicing it, he or she will have a very hard time not thinking about such things.
We can control our association, what we read, hear, watch, where we travel to or hang out at, and who we associate with. Imagine trying to diet while reading “foodie” magazines, poring over cookbooks, and loitering in the aisles of grocery stores, in front of bakeries (or whatever kind of food is the tempation) and hanging out in front of restaurants to smell the food smells; or going to “all you can eat” places with a bunch of friends and not eat a thing. The diet won’t work.
And someone truly repentent, who changes their behavior (and associations etc as described above) will find their desires changing as well. Doesn’t happen overnight, harder for some than others, but eventually such thoughts dwindle and become only past memories.
I have never had the problem with attraction to the same sex for which I am very thankful, but naturally other things have tempted me. And the above method is universally applicable.
Of course, begging God for forgiveness and strength and guidance is essential for those faithful to Him. But we have to do our part.
Jeremiah, I believe that a truly repentant man that comes to the cross can and will be saved.. and He will be healed.. that is the work of Christ