The command to lower the gaze

Q: Regarding the matter of lowering the gaze (from looking at what is forbidden), I am a twenty year old young man who lowers his gaze, but I usually spend some time before and during sleep thinking of my love for sexual appetite. How can I give up this bad habit and keep Satan away from me? It may be worth mentioning that I usually recite Qur'an before going to bed.

A: Firstly: It is Wajib (obligatory) on you that you lower your gaze from looking at what is forbidden. Likewise, it is impermissible for you to read magazines or watch films that contain women's images. Allah (Exalted be He) says: Tell the believing men to lower their gaze (from looking at forbidden things), and protect their private parts (from illegal sexual acts). That is purer for them. Verily, Allâh is All-Aware of what they do. Secondly: You have to marry if you are able to do so, for marriage will help you lower your gaze. The foregoing was explained by the Prophet (peace be upon him) when he said in an authentic Hadith: 'O young people! Whoever among you is able to marry, should marry, for marriage would help him lower his gaze and keep his virtuousness and whoever is not able to marry, is recommended to fast, for fasting will diminish his sexual power. (Part No. 18; Page No. 33) May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.