Growing up, I've always been told to abstain from pre-marital sex. As a matter of fact, I did ask those who gave the advice why many times ;-) That is a story for another day. But as I mature in the things of faith, I'm begining to understand these issues from a fresh perspective.
Abstaining from all forms of sexual immorality- pre-martial sex/fornication, adultery, philandering and it likes will save us a lot of heartaches. We won't be exposed to all manners of sexually transmitted infections and diseases. Have you seen the statistics lately? Abstinence will also give us rest of mind. We won't need to look-over our shoulders or frantically clean up traces to fake a reputation. Most importantly, abstinence from sexual immorality is our way of showing gratitude to God for His unending love and mercy towards us.
Abstinence is not false purity. Trust me, it appears harder these days because it has become almost a norm to be sexually active outside marriage. It is hard when you are sorrounded by the seeming "glory" of temptation and pleasures of sin. But what is a 3 minute of pleasure compared to an immeasurable consecrated lifestyle that honors God? When God says He will honor those who honor Him, He will! Yes, He sees the sacrifices we make. He does honor!
Here is how 'the woman's study bible' captures it: The believer is not to be modeled by the pressures of the sinful world. We are to experience a transformation, a new way of thinking made possible through the power of the Holy Spirit.
When next you are face to face with a lure to bend over for a few minutes of pleasure, run! Don't stand and expect to fight it down. Ask Joseph :-) He'll tell you same thing- run, flee! (Genesis 39:6-12). Joseph honored God and he (Joseph) was elevated. Ask any historian the pivotal role Joseph played in Israel's prosperity. So you see, that act positions you for trans-generational manifestation. But don't get me wrong, this is not a way to bribe God, condemn others or try to appear holier than thou. It is a lifestyle. Your business.
Abstinence from all forms of sexual immorality is a GREAT way to worship God. It HONORS Him.
See Romans 12:1; 1 Corinthians 6:18-20; Genesis 39:6-12.
Some of us might have fallen short. But today is a great day to start afresh! Pray for forgiveness and ask God for the enabling grace to honor Him with all of you. When we repent, it means consciously retracing our steps and following a new direction. Don't allow anyone or anything pull you back to the old habits.
It is possible to abstain from sex if you are not married. It is possible to be faithful to ONE partner if you are married. It is a conscious decision we have to make. Don't deny yourself the opportunity to express your gratitude by honoring God with your body, revel in Him!
"...Lust is lost.
But he'll return
and find no room
in my cleansed robe.
No viper in my bosom.
My crown is restored unto honor.
Lushly virtuous,
and at peace, I am royalty."
I write this to you as I write it to myself. Life is learning and growing.
Praise God!
Great piece my friend, its indeed a decision and a wise one at that... "...So you see, that act positions you for trans-generational manifestation. But don't get me wrong, this is not a way to bribe God, condemn others or try to appear holier than thou. It is a lifestyle. Your business." Grt word! Stay Blessed
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