Sexual Purity: What It Is and Why It Still Matters
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It’s easy to feel like you’re the only one when you choose a different path in a world where sexual freedom is praised and purity is mocked. But the truth is that sexual purity is not a trend and will never be. It’s not about following old rules or controlling your desires out of fear; it’s about honouring God with your body, living freely, and trusting His plan for your life.
“For God has not called us for impurity, but in holiness.” – 1 Thessalonians 4:7 (ESV)
Let’s be honest. In a world that says “why not?”, saying “no” can feel like swimming against the current. People around you might act like purity is impossible or, even worse, not needed. But when you know who you are, the choices you make start to show that.
So, what exactly is sexual purity? And why should it still matter today?
Indeed, waiting until marriage to engage in sexual activity is a crucial aspect of maintaining one’s purity. However, that isn’t the complete picture.
Many people believe that they are pure as long as they don’t have sex.
However, they are:
- Transmitting or receiving naked
- Pornographic viewing
- Sexual fantasies
- Using excessive physical contact
- Addicted to “soft porn” or erotic literature
- flirting with those they don’t intend to respect
All of this demonstrates that you can be emotionally and spiritually impure while still being a virgin physically.
”Purity is not just what you do with your body — it’s what you do with your whole self.”
What Is Sexual Purity?
It’s a daily decision to:
Sexual purity is not just about saving sex for marriage; it’s about honouring God with your body, mind, heart, and desires.
- Choose obedience over impulse
- Set boundaries that align with God’s Word
- Guard your heart and eyes from compromise
- Pursue wholeness, not just virginity
Sexual purity is not about pretending you don’t have desires; it’s about surrendering those desires to a God who knows how to guide them.
Why It Still Matters
1. Because Your Body Matters to God
The Bible calls your body a temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19). That means your body is not just a shell; it’s sacred. Purity is how you treat what belongs to God.
You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore, honour God with your body.” — 1 Corinthians 6:19–20
2. Because Purity Protects Purpose
When you compromise sexually, it doesn’t just affect your body—it clouds your mind, weakens your confidence, and often detours your destiny. Purity clears the path for clarity and boldness in purpose.
3. Because the World Needs to See the Difference
Purity isn’t just personal; it’s powerful. Your life is a testimony. When people see your joy, discipline, and contentment without compromise, it challenges culture and draws them to Christ.
Is It Too Late If I’ve Already Messed Up?
It’s a common misconception that sexual purity is equivalent to having a spotless record. They believe it’s something you either have or don’t, and you’re automatically disqualified if you’ve ever made a mistake. This concept frequently causes feelings of guilt and despair, particularly for people who have had sexual trauma or have a regrettable past. It creates an exclusive club that only a few people can join. However, this perspective entirely fails to capture the essence of true purity.
Purity is not about one’s physical history but about aligning one’s desires and actions with God’s will. It’s a continuous surrender, starting at any moment, regardless of age or experience. Focus shifts from past actions to current actions.
A person’s past can be broken, but God can restore broken hearts and wounds. He sees a person seeking redemption, offering it freely. The story of a redeemed person showcases God’s grace and healing abilities, not defining the future.
How to Begin Again
- Repent and Release: Bring your past to Jesus. No shame. No guilt. Just truth.
- Renew Your Mind: Get into God’s Word, detox from culture.
- Redefine Your Boundaries: What conversations, apps, people, or places pull you off course?
- Surround Yourself with Purity-Minded People: You’re not alone in this walk.
- Stay Accountable: Find a mentor, coach, or fellow Christian who checks in with love and truth.
Final Thoughts
Sexual purity is about redemption, choosing holiness over hype and purpose over pleasure, and is a daily practice, facilitated by God’s grace and His power in one’s life.
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