What is purity?

Purity means to be free from guilt or evil, to be innocent. It can also mean stainless or whiteness. Spiritually, this means that regardless of our sins and the stains they create in our lives, “we can become as white as snow” (Isaiah 1:18).

Psalm 51:1-10 says only God can make us pure. Apart from Him, we cannot claim purity (Proverbs 20:9). Matthew 5:27-30 tells us that purity begins in the heart, and John 17:17 says that purity only comes from God. Regardless of your past, you can become pure by the cleansing power of Jesus’ blood (Galatians 2:20).

How do we stay pure?

The answer is crystal clear: Study and obey God’s Word.

How can a young person stay pure? By obeying your word. I have tried hard to find you — don’t let me wander from your commands. I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you. I praise you, O Lord; teach me your decrees. I have recited aloud all the regulations you have given us. I have rejoiced in your laws as much as in riches. I will study your commandments and reflect on your ways. I will delight in your decrees and not forget your word. (Psalm 119:9-16)

Not just for young people, you stay pure by:

  1. By living according to God’s Word. (v. 9)
  2. Seeking God with all your heart. (v. 10)
  3. Hiding God’s Word in your heart. (v. 11)
  4. Praising God. (v. 12)
  5. Following God’s laws. (v. 13)
  6. Rejoicing in following God’s statues. (v. 14)
  7. Meditating on God’s precepts. (v. 15)
  8. Considering God’s ways. (v. 15)
  9. Delighting in God’s decrees. (v. 16)
  10. Not neglecting God’s Word. (v. 16)

Staying pure is a decision to live how God wants you to live, and that decision is only possible when you fill yourself with God’s word. It happens, too, as you seek him in prayer daily and allow him to live and work in your life. Any of this can happen at any age, young or old.