Purity
When you hear the word “purity”, what immediately comes to mind? Most likely, sexual purity. But the true nature and subsequent outworking of purity begins on a much deeper level – it begins with our hearts.
Purity conjures up the idea of willpower for many people. It involves gritting our teeth and digging our heels in, and hoping we can hold on JUST long enough to walk down the aisle. It’s as though it is something we must resist because is seems to be against the natural order of things. A large part of why we believe that way is because secular society has desensitized us to what the natural order of things is supposed to be.
Purity is not a concept that goes by the wayside once we are married. It’s just as relevant to remain pure during marriage, although at that point it obviously takes on a slightly different focus.
Our standard is to be the Word of God, so we must look there to see what God says about purity. We are IN this world but not OF this world when we are born again into the family of God. Here are some Scriptures that admonish us to remain pure:
“Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” Romans 12:2
“Do not offer the parts of your body to sin, as instruments of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God, as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer the parts of your body to him as instruments of righteousness. For sin shall not be your master, because you are not under law, but under grace.” Romans 6:13-14
“Dear friends, I urge you, as aliens and strangers in the world, to abstain from sinful desires, which war against your soul.” 1 Peter 2:11
But, how do we do live a lifestyle of purity? In the book, “Sassy, Single & Satisfied” by Michelle McKinney Hammond, she has a chapter entitled “How to Handle Raging Hormones”. While she is specifically dealing with physical purity in this chapter, the contents can be applied to purity in any arena.
What is the solution? Worship.
Worship is intimacy on a spiritual level. We are a 3-part being: we are a spirit, we have a soul (our mind, will and emotions) and we live in a body. Our spirit-man is the REAL us. Our spirit-man is meant to rule over our soul and our body. So, when our soul and/or body begin to talk to us, we must rise above in the spirit realm. This is the only way we will experience true and lasting victory in the area of purity.
“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.” Matthew 5:8
Suddenly, this Scripture does not seem so unattainable. We are “pure in heart” when we worship God, when we direct our affections and our time and our minds towards Him. As we fill up our hearts with time in worship towards the Lord, this place of purity will spill over into our souls and our bodies.
“Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.” Proverbs 4:23
That is not to say that we will not be tested. The Bible also says in Revelation that we overcome by the Blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony. Keep these or other Purity Scriptures handy and speak them out of your mouth when you are tempted or tested in the area of purity. The Word of God you are speaking will bear witness with your spirit, which is born of God, and you will better be able to quiet the thoughts and desires that are trying to rise up in you. God WANTS you to succeed even more than you want yourself to succeed, so lean and rely on Him whenever you need to.
“God blesses the people who patiently endure testing. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.” James 1:12
Purity jewelry is a great gift for a friend or loved one, as a reminder to them of the importance of keeping a pure body, soul and spirit. It can also be the perfect gift to give to yourself. A visual cue is a very powerful tool. Don’t always wait for someone else to come along and encourage you, you are well able to provide encouragement for yourself! A meaningful piece of jewelry is a reminder of our value and of our ability to live a pure life with God’s help.
Keep a pure heart and purity will flow from that place and permeate every area of your life!
Check out the selection of purity rings we have available:
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