“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own;” – 1 Corinthians 6:19
Our Bodies as Temples
As we reflect on keeping our bodies pure, we often forget that our bodies are not merely vessels. They are temples of the Holy Spirit. This profound truth reminds us that we are to treat our bodies with reverence and care. If we truly recognize that God’s Spirit dwells within us, we cannot take our physical health lightly. Staying pure means making choices that align our actions with the holiness God intends for us. By honoring our bodies, we also honor God.
1 Corinthians 6:19
“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own;” – 1 Corinthians 6:19
1 Peter 2:9
“But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.” – 1 Peter 2:9
Romans 12:1
“I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.” – Romans 12:1
2 Corinthians 7:1
“Since we have these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from every defilement of body and spirit, bringing holiness to completion in the fear of God.” – 2 Corinthians 7:1
Galatians 5:22-23
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” – Galatians 5:22-23
Guarding Our Hearts and Minds
Keeping our bodies pure isn’t only about physical actions but also involves our thoughts and emotions. We have a duty to guard our hearts and minds from things that can contaminate our purity. When we fill our minds with uplifting, godly thoughts, we create an environment where our bodies can thrive according to God’s design. This leads us to make choices that reflect our commitment to maintaining purity in every aspect of our lives.
Philippians 4:8
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” – Philippians 4:8
Proverbs 4:23
“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” – Proverbs 4:23
Colossians 3:2
“Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.” – Colossians 3:2
Romans 12:2
“Do not conform 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
James 4:7
“Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” – James 4:7
The Importance of Self-Control
Having self-control is essential in our quest to keep our bodies pure. The desire for instant gratification often leads to choices that compromise our personal purity. Learning to exercise self-control helps us make decisions that honor God and reflect our dedication to living in a pure manner. Through prayer and reliance on the Holy Spirit, we can cultivate self-control and ensure that our actions align with our faith.
1 Corinthians 9:27
“No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.” – 1 Corinthians 9:27
Galatians 5:23
“Gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” – Galatians 5:23
Titus 2:11-12
“For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say ‘No’ to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age,” – Titus 2:11-12
Proverbs 25:28
“Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control.” – Proverbs 25:28
1 Timothy 4:8
“For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.” – 1 Timothy 4:8
Living a Life of Holiness
Our journey in keeping our bodies pure is deeply rooted in our calling to live a holy life. As followers of Christ, we are called to live in a way that reflects the holiness of God. This means adhering to standards that help us to stay pure in both our physical and spiritual lives. By striving for holiness, we embrace a lifestyle that positively impacts others and draws them to God.
1 Peter 1:16
“For it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy.'” – 1 Peter 1:16
Hebrews 12:14
“Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.” – Hebrews 12:14
Romans 6:13
“Do not offer any part of yourself to sin as an instrument of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer every part of yourself to him as an instrument of righteousness.” – Romans 6:13
1 Thessalonians 4:3
“It is God’s will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality;” – 1 Thessalonians 4:3
Ephesians 4:24
“And to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.” – Ephesians 4:24
Assessing Our Influences
We need to be conscious of the influences we allow into our lives. The people we surround ourselves with, the media we consume, and the conversations we engage in can shape our understanding and commitment to purity. It’s vital that we choose influences that support our journey to maintain purity. By being intentional about our connections and our inputs, we strengthen our resolve to keep our bodies pure.
Proverbs 13:20
“Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.” – Proverbs 13:20
1 Corinthians 15:33
“Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.'” – 1 Corinthians 15:33
Philippians 1:27
“Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel.” – Philippians 1:27
James 1:27
“Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.” – James 1:27
Matthew 5:13-16
“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.” – Matthew 5:13-16
Seeking Forgiveness and Renewal
No matter how determined we are, there will be times when we stumble and fall short of keeping our bodies pure. This is where seeking forgiveness becomes essential. God assures us that His grace is sufficient. When we confess and seek His forgiveness, we are cleansed and renewed. It’s crucial that we carry this assurance with us as we strive to maintain our purity.
1 John 1:9
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” – 1 John 1:9
Isaiah 1:18
“Come now, let us settle the matter,” says the Lord. “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool.” – Isaiah 1:18
Psalm 51:10
“Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” – Psalm 51:10
Romans 8:1
“Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” – Romans 8:1
2 Corinthians 5:17
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” – 2 Corinthians 5:17
Final Thoughts
Keeping our bodies pure is not just about avoiding physical impurities. It’s about understanding that our bodies are sacred and represent something greater. As we embark on this quest, we remember to guard our hearts, exercise self-control, and assess the influences around us. We can always seek forgiveness when we slip, knowing God’s grace is always available. We can encourage one another on this path towards holiness in our lives.
Let’s keep striving together, holding on to the words of truth that guide us, and supporting one another in our community. Through fellowship and by looking to scripture, we can foster an environment where everyone feels motivated to live lives of purity. If you’re looking for more like-minded encouragement, check out Bible verses about fornication and Bible verses about fornication and adultery.
We are all on this journey together, learning, growing, and striving to honor God with our bodies. Together, we can experience the fullness of life He wants for us.