Reasons of Practicality

After having some conversations at work about dating, abstinence, and relationships sparked by the ring that I wear, I got to thinking. When I talk about these things, is my present the case that being sexually conservative will make for a longer-lasting and more meaningful marriage? Perhaps it's just to stay away from STDs. Actually, I might just be so afraid of intimacy that I'm putting it off as long as I can.

In all these conversations I've got to remember my main point: Jesus and salvation. I shouldn't argue for abstinence for it's own sake; if I don't have Jesus, I'm spiritually dead whether or not I'm abstinent. Without Jesus, who is our righteousness, each attempt at obeying the rules and doing things right is a futile grasp at godliness. Thusly, whenever I'm asked why I do something differently than the rest of the world does it, reasons of practicality are secondary to glorifying God.

It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God- that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption.

1 Corinthians 1:30

So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.

1 Corinthians 10:31

Jesus answered, "I tell you the truth, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless he is born of water and the Spirit. Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit.

John 3:5-6