PURSING PURITY IN LOVE "It is God’s will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality; that each of you should learn to control your own body in a way that is holy and honorable, not in passionate lust like the pagans, who do not know God." – 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5 (NIV) God calls His children to live in purity, especially when it comes to love and relationships. In a world where love is often confused with lust and personal gratification, the Bible reminds us that true love is honorable and self-controlled. Purity is not just about physical boundaries; it is about honoring God with our hearts, thoughts, and actions. Pursuing purity in love is a commitment to reflect Christ in every aspect of our relationships. The foundation of purity is understanding that love is sacred. God designed love to be selfless, patient, and holy (1 Corinthians 13:4-7). When love is guided by purity, it seeks to build, not to exploit; it prioritizes God’s will over fleeting desires. This contrasts sharply with worldly love, which often promotes passion without commitment and pleasure without responsibility. As believers, we are called to rise above cultural pressures and embrace God’s higher standard of love. Purity also requires self-discipline. Paul urges us to "control our body in a way that is holy and honorable." This means setting boundaries in relationships, guarding our hearts, and being mindful of the influences we allow into our lives. Purity is not just about what we avoid but about what we pursue—growing in holiness, renewing our minds with God’s Word, and surrounding ourselves with people who encourage righteousness. Psalm 119:9 says, "How can a young person stay on the path of purity? By living according to your word." Temptations will come, but God provides strength to overcome them (1 Corinthians 10:13). Instead of conforming to the world’s view of relationships, we must allow God to transform our hearts. Purity is not a burden but a gift — it frees us from regret, strengthens our spiritual walk, and prepares us for relationships that truly honor God. No one is perfect, but by God’s grace, we can pursue a life of purity and find joy in His design for love. If you have struggled with impurity, know that God's grace is available. He restores, renews, and gives strength to walk in righteousness. Purity is not just about the past; it is about daily choosing to honor God in the present. Make the decision to pursue love in a way that glorifies Him. Let purity be your testimony of faith and devotion to Christ! Meditate! Am I honoring God with my thoughts, actions, and relationships? Pray! Lord, thank You for calling me to a life of purity. Help me to honor You in my relationships and to love with a heart that reflects Christ. Strengthen me to resist temptation and to walk in holiness. Amen. Act! Set practical boundaries in your relationships to protect purity. Be intentional about filling your mind with God’s truth and surrounding yourself with godly influences. Read! Psalm 119:9, 1 Corinthians 6:18-20, Romans 12:1-2, Philippians 4:8, 1 John 1:9. Purity is a lifelong pursuit, not just a one-time decision. Choose to love in a way that brings glory to God, and He will bless your journey with peace, joy, and fulfillment! SpiritWord × February 24, 2025 (C) Oluremi. OmuAjose, Ijebu. = Thank you for receiving The Word. To get it directly on WhatsApp, please follow our channel http://bit.ly/40W151F. March edition of LAMBANO holds by 10am this Saturday. Here's a divine opportunity to redeem the time and take hold of God's promises. Join us on Thursday online via https://bit.ly/41dqnIJ or onsite at 5:30pm (WAT) as we gather for another DEEPDIVE. You can also be part of CAMPUS KINGDOM DECREES every Thursday at 4am (WAT). For Counselling and/or Intercession, kindly mail [email protected]. Know someone looking to build a solid foundation in their Christian walk? Encourage them to join the Believers' Foundational Class! For details, email [email protected]. To get updates, partner/donate and other inquiries related to our ministry operations, please reach us via mail or Whatsapp. See you at 20:45 (NGR) for BUILDUP. https://bit.ly/4jDJORV.