By Jackie Gable
Think of someone you know who grew up in a Christian home then once they turned 18 headed deep into the world. I personally have known several people, both guys and girls, who have done just this. They grew up hearing the same Biblical principles, memorizing the same Bible verses, and often had godly parents who were actively involved in the church. Why, then, at the first chance do they choose everything opposite of what they have been taught?
I understand that there’s a high chances many of these individuals I once knew were in fact not a true child of God. They personally rejected the God of their parents. But what about those who professed Christ and perhaps still step foot in church but live like the world? I’ve found, also, that the number one sin these young people fall into is a sexual sin. Years of being told no dating or flirting with the opposite sex has somehow lead to this overwhelming desire to indulge in it.
<??> So what makes the difference? How can you, a Christian young person, keep yourself pure (emotionally & physically) until your wedding day?
When contemplating these questions I came up with several applicable answers. But I believe that there really is only one thing that will make the difference in your life, and that made the difference in mine – a personal commitment to the Lord Jesus Christ to keep your heart and mind pure. I made this commitment to the Lord at age 16 and for the rest of my single days, He helped me remain physically and emotional pure. He gave peace and contentment about being single up until He brought my husband into my life. (It was so much easier not having to stress about who I was going to marry!)
Perhaps you have not been pure up until now. The Lord still delights and requires you to commit your wants, desires, and appetites to Him. (Proverbs 16:3) It is not too late! Likewise, don’t be deceived by your own heart in thinking that you will remain pure in your own strength. It takes the grace of God to keep a young person pure and patient until their wedding day. That grace can be extended by God to those who do their part – surrender and commit your life, including your love-life, to His perfect will and you will find rest and success.
