It kind of upsets me that churches don't really discuss this topic. The problem with that is there are so many people who are at a loss for this- for relationships in general! I, as a young woman of God who is still learning, would love to hear more about this. So, I will try my best to give my input.
On the topic of dating, it has been brought to my attention that a lot of people, teenagers especially, don't know where the limit is. How far is too far? I have heard "Don't touch where the bathing suit covers," or,"nothing below the waist." Okay, those seem a little risque. What about what God has to say about that? As Christians, isn't it more important to know what God's "limits" are for us?
Here, look at what 1 Thessalonians 4:2-9 says. "For you know what instructions we gave you by the authority of the Lord Jesus. It is God’s will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality; that each of you should learn to control your own body in a way that is holy and honorable, not in passionate lust like the pagans, who do not know God; and that in this matter no one should wrong or take advantage of a brother or sister.The Lord will punish all those who commit such sins, as we told you and warned you before. For God did not call us to be impure, but to live a holy life. Therefore, anyone who rejects this instruction does not reject a human being but God, the very God who gives you his Holy Spirit. Now about your love for one another we do not need to write to you, for you yourselves have been taught by God to love each other."
I dunno about you but that is pretty clear. ". . . avoid sexual immorality . . . "
Okay, if you don't get the hint, here is another verse. Hebrews 13:3-4 states,"Continue to remember those in prison as if you were together with them in prison, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering. Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral."
Can it get much clearer than that? Colossians 3:4-6 even tells us to put to death whatever belongs to our earthy nature, including sexual impurities! But don't fret! 1 Corinthians 10:13 encourages us,"No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it." Look, God isn't going to give you more than you can handle. And that includes temptations (like, hmm.. gee I dunno, sexual temptations?). But, God also always provides an escape.
So where is that line? I am really spewing out God's word today, huh? Well, take a look at Matthew 5:28. "But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart." I think that line of limitation starts in your mind. What are you thinking? If those thoughts are impure, and you can't stop them, then apply those thoughts to your mom. I am positive those thoughts will stop. Would you ever think those things about your mom? Didn't think so. I also want to add that I, personally, can't give you an answer for where that line is. If you must know, I encourage you to take it up with God. I, however, fully believe that there is no line because there shouldn't be any sexual anythings in a relationship. Once you get that infectious thought in your head, you already crossed the line. That is what I think.
Proverbs 4:23,"Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it." If you are filled with sin, what do you think is going to flow from your heart? Certainly not purity.
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