We Can Remain Chaste

"Cleanse your hands, . , , and purify your hearts." -JAMES  4:8.

CHASITY is not  a popular virtue.  That is particularly true in our time. In many lands, homosexuality and sex outside  of marriage are viewed as normal.  ( Note: Homosexuality is not normal, period. When Jehovah said man and woman must marry and procreate, that is exactly what he meant. Romans 1:21-37)  These lifestyles are even promoted in advertising and entertainment. (Psalm 12:8) Immorality has become so pervasive that you may wonder, 'Is it really possible to live a chaste life?  Our confident reply is, Yes, with Jehovah's help, true Christians can remain chaste. -Read 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5; Leviticus 18:22-30. 

First, however, we must recognize that in order to live a chaste  life, we must reject immoral desires. Just as a baited hook may a fish, so immoral thoughts and lewd desires-when not immediately dismissed-may begin to draw out and entice a Christian.  They can appeal to our fallen flesh and lead us toward immoral acts. In time, the allure of sin may become so great that the unclean desire becomes fertile. At that point, even a servant of Jehovah may be ready to act on his desire when an opportunity arises.  Yes, "desire . . .gives birth to sin." -Read James 1:14, 15. 

It is sobering to reflect on how a momentary  desire can develop into a serious sin. But how encouraging it is to know that if we prevent unclean desires from taking root, we need not become involved in immoral conduct and suffer its bitter consequences!  (Galatians 5:16) Let us consider  three aids that will help us in the fight against unclean desires:  our relationship with Jehovah, the counsel of his Word, and the help of mature fellow Christians.  

Note: I have been chaste/celibate since 1999; if I can do it, anyone can.  You have to  really want to, especially if you love your relationship with Jehovah God. If you don't have a relationship, I suggest you get one. It has done wonders for me. 

Next time: We Can Remain Chaste -"DRAW CLOSE TO GOD"

From the Watchtower magazine, 2015