Pursuing Purity: Helping teens overcome the temptations of sexual activity

Sex is everywhere. 

Even where it isn’t, symbols of it are. 

Ads. 

Billboards.

Commercials.

It is almost unavoidable; everywhere we look, it exists. 

And teenagers are being raised thinking that is ok.   

If you talk to teens about sex, it isn’t necessarily that they want to be promiscuous. 

Instead, it is simply that they don’t see it as an issue. 

Many are unaware of the ramifications of their actions.

And for the first time in American history, many have not been raised in Christian homes with Christian morals.

Because of this, it is our responsibility to educate them on the importance of pursuing purity. 

Parents have the biggest responsibility to inform them to do so. 

The conversation may be awkward but it can have life changing affects. 

If the parents choose not to educate their children, then the world will. 

And the world will not do so in a righteous, Godly way. 

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As Christians in general, we need to help others to see Christ. 

We need to help young adults rediscover Jesus, and rediscover what a righteous life looks like. 

Not only because their soul is in effect.

But because their life; their innocence; their future; their bodies; their happiness; and their emotions are in effect as well. 

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For us to help make a difference in the lives of these teenagers, there are things that we need to do. 

1.       Educate what a pure life looks like. 

If we don’t, somebody else will.

And that somebody probably won’t be a good role model. 

2.       Model what a pure life looks like. 

(Mat 7:3-5)

Many times, we are quick to jump on others for their faults; while we fail to demonstrate what a righteous lifestyle looks like ourselves. 

The greatest thing that we can do is help model what a pure life looks like. 

Actions speak louder than words. 

3.       Stand by them-

They will fail.  Many already have. 

They do not need someone to condemn them.

They need someone to love them and support them. 

Show them grace when they messed up.  Because we ALL mess up. 

And God has worked in us in mighty ways…

They want somebody who is transparent.

So be real.

Be honest.

Use your life as a testimony. 

(1 Tim. 13-14)

4.       Set boundaries

(James 1:14-15)

Prevent the slip-ups before they happen. 

Many times, they don’t go into a relationship expecting sex.

Or expecting a pregnancy.

But many times it starts as kiss.

And that kiss turns into more…and more…and more..

And eventually…..______________________.

Let’s be an influence. 

Let’s help impact lives before they make mistakes and have to live with the regrets. 

Let’s help change the way that things are.

And let’s pursue purity with our young people. 

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http://www.churchleaders.com/youth/youth-culture-trends/147171-Culture%E2%80%99s-Confusion-Over-Sex.html