As we talked about self-control we learned of the peace it can bring us. Part of this peace produces purity in our lives. Modesty and self-respect are characters of purity.

In 1 Timothy 4:12 Paul cautioned to always, 'set an example for believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith, and in purity.' When we set examples to those around us, we can strengthen and teach by our example. Paul was speaking to Timothy because he wanted him to understand the seriousness of this matter and how quickly anyone, no matter how spiritual they may be, can fall prey to sexual temptation.

There's evidence to show that Timothy was a very sensitive man, both emotionally and physically. Like King David who also shared simular traits, he was vulnerable sexually.

A person who has a warm heart towards God also usually has a warm heart toward people. And a warm heart toward people can become a warm heart towards the opposite sex. Especially in times of lonliness and inactivity. And what may be a pure motive may lead to unpure actions.

The Bible teaches us that the man is to be the stronger, the leader, the one in charge, and in control. The woman is to be in submission; in a position offering respect and honor. There is an inherent of man; a tendency to respond to a woman who respects him, who is loyal to him, and who practices the presence of Jesus Christ.

Working towards purity is not an easy chore, we tend to fall submissive into sin as our flesh yearns for attention and pleasure. But if we read the Word of God and submit under that Word, we can work towards a life of freedom and peace as we live the way God intended us to live.

Ask yourself...

1. Do I meet my spouse's emotional and sexual needs; helping minimize the temptations that face us in the world?
2. Do I avoid attracting others to myself sexually? Am I discreet and modest in what I wear? Covering up the parts of my body that God designed to attract only within bonds of marriage?
3. Do I recognize that sexuality is a gift of God; that like any other gift should be used appropriately?
4. Do I believe that being sexually active involves a life commitment to one person? (1 Cor. 7:1-5)
5. Do I see that a relationship between a Christian man and woman is to be governed by an attitude of unselfishness, humility, and self sacrifice? (Eph 5:22-28)
6. Can I see that sexual expression is designed by God to be more than a means of procreation, but an expression of love, concern, and unity?

Sexual expression was designed by God to meet our physical needs. We read about God's viewpoint on the enjoyable aspects of sex in Songs of Solomon. He meant it to be pleasurable and to be one of the most creative experiences man and woman can have together. It is always to be a mutual expression of Christlike love. Whatever is acceptable, within a man and woman who are married, is within God's will and blessing. God gives man the ability to provide emotional security in order to help his wife be a fulfilled woman. And in turn He gives woman the ability to give physical pleasure in order to help her husband be a fulfilled man.

All this, complete in purity, will give you a life rich and full living the way God has intended us to live. 'And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ - to the glory and praise of God.' - Phil 1:9-11