When God created Adam and Eve, He told them to ‘multiply and replenish the earth’ (see Genesis 1:28). That helps to explain why sex is one of our strongest drives. But when we let those feelings take control and determine our behaviour, we can end up making bad decisions. The Bible says: ‘God wants you to be holy and to stay away from sexual sins. He wants each of you to learn to control your own body in a way that is holy and honourable. Don’t use your body for sexual sin like the people who do not know God’ (1 Thessalonians 4:3-5 NCV). When we get involved in physical intimacy with someone, but we’re not truly and wholeheartedly committed to them and to the relationship, eventually someone’s going to be hurt. That’s why the Bible tells us the only right place for sex is inside of marriage (take a look at Hebrews 13:4), and we need to listen what God says about this issue, before we get into situations where we’re tempted to compromise our character. So how can we resist that pressure? 1) Read 1 Corinthians 6:18-20. Our bodies belong to God, and whatever we do with, and to, our bodies should glorify Him. That means we should avoid getting caught up in sexual sin. 2) If you find yourself in a tempting situation, get out of it as quickly as possible. Or even better, avoid that situation completely. 3) Ask God to help you stay focused on Him. Here’s a prayer to help you: ‘Lord, I’m not going to be controlled by these impulses, or let sin separate me from You. I choose to keep Your standards, and to rely on Your Spirit to give me strength every day.’

What now?

If you’re feeling tempted, pray the prayer above, or use your own words to declare that you refuse to be separated from God and you’re choosing to live by His standards.