May 8: Pure Sex

Our culture is obsessed with sex. We are constantly bombarded, through every medium, with sexual images and innuendo. Temptation toward sexual impurity is a strong and ongoing battle for most people, especially guys, as our culture lures us away from God's blessing at every turn.

Sex was not dreamed up in some dark alley or in the corner of some porn shop. Sex is God’s idea and the best sex you’ll ever have is when you follow His plan. God loves us and wants us to have real intimacy--with Him and in all our relationships. Purity leads to real intimacy. What’s the opposite of pure sex? Impure (polluted, contaminated, poisoned) relationship. That's not God's plan.

Living for self-gratification and indulgence leaves a trail of broken hearts and broken lives in its wake. How do we live a life of purity, believing that purity leads to real intimacy? How are we to respond to sexual temptation?

"So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall! No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it." (1 Corinthians 10:12-13)

When we are tempted several things are in play. The Enemy is trying to destroy you. Andy Stanley said, "temptation is always a test of our faith, not just our self-control." Jesus understands the battle because He's faced the same temptation. He always offers an escape hatch if we'll look for it and run to it.

Paul instructs, "Flee (run for your life!) from sexual immorality. All other sins a man commits are outside his body, but he who sins sexually sins against his own body. Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body." (1 Corinthians 6:18-20)

Purity leads to real intimacy--with God and in all other relationships. Impurity pollutes, contaminates and destroys. Jesus offers freedom and victory. Run from the temptation and run to Jesus.

~ Father, help me to follow your plan, knowing that you have my best interest at heart. Keep me pure in mind and body so I can enjoy life at its best. Amen.