What steps can we take to uphold purity in today's society? A sobering snapshot from Genesis 34:2 “When Shechem son of Hamor the Hivite, the prince of the land, saw her, he took her and lay with her by force.” (Genesis 34:2) • Dinah’s violation shows how quickly purity can be stolen when God’s standards are ignored. • The passage reminds us that sexual sin harms bodies, families, and entire communities. Why purity still matters • “For it is God’s will that you should be holy: You must abstain from sexual immorality; each of you must learn to control his own body in holiness and honor.” (1 Thessalonians 4:3-4) • “Flee from sexual immorality… glorify God with your body.” (1 Corinthians 6:18-20) • “How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to Your word.” (Psalm 119:9) Purity is a call from God Himself—an act of worship that demonstrates love for Christ and respect for others. Recognizing current cultural pressures • Endless media that normalizes sexual experimentation (1 John 2:16). • Peer expectations that dismiss biblical boundaries (1 Corinthians 15:33). • A mindset that prizes immediate gratification over long-term holiness (Romans 12:2). Practical steps to guard our purity Guard the mind and senses • Make a covenant with your eyes (Job 31:1). • Filter entertainment; remove whatever feeds lust (Matthew 5:28-29). Flee, don’t flirt, with temptation • “Flee from youthful passions and pursue righteousness.” (2 Timothy 2:22) • Have an exit plan for risky places, conversations, or apps. Set clear boundaries in relationships • Discuss limits early in dating. • Avoid isolated settings that invite compromise. Immerse in God’s Word and prayer • Daily reading renews thinking (Romans 12:2). • Memorize verses that speak directly to purity struggles. Cultivate accountability • Same-gender friends or mentors who ask honest, regular questions. • Use accountability software if online images are a snare. Guard the heart • “Guard your heart with all diligence, for from it flow springs of life.” (Proverbs 4:23) • Replace lustful thoughts with praise, thanksgiving, and service. Strengthening purity through community • Meet faithfully with believers who “spur one another on to love and good deeds.” (Hebrews 10:24-25) • Allow older, godly men and women to instruct younger believers (Titus 2:6). • Restore one another gently when someone stumbles (Galatians 6:1-2). Hope after a fall • “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9) • Cry out with David, “Create in me a clean heart, O God.” (Psalm 51:10) • Hear Jesus’ words: “Now go and sin no more.” (John 8:11) Living in purity is challenging but possible. God’s Word, His Spirit, and a committed community provide everything needed to walk in holiness and shine as lights in a darkened culture. |
    |