My pastor said something yesterday that struck me as profound. He said that purity is not just about avoidance; purity is your undivided devotion to God.
Purity is often misunderstood as simply refraining from sin, particularly in matters of morality and conduct. But true purity goes far beyond what we avoid, it’s about what we pursue. At its core, purity is your undivided devotion to God. It is not merely about resisting temptation but about wholeheartedly seeking and loving God above all else.
Matthew 5:8—”Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.”
Jesus teaches that purity is not just external, but a matter of the heart. When our devotion is undivided, we experience closeness with God. Purity is not just about what we don’t do, but about who we love and seek: God Himself.
James 4:8—“Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.”
James contrasts double-mindedness (divided devotion) with purity of heart. True purity means being fully devoted to God, without wavering between the world and Him.
2 Timothy 2:22—“Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.”
In this verse, Paul highlights that purity is not just about fleeing but also about pursuing. It calls us to actively seek righteousness and surround ourselves with those who have pure hearts devoted to God.
Purity is love in action. It means loving God so deeply that nothing competes for His place in our hearts.
Purity is transformational. When our devotion is undivided, our actions naturally align with righteousness.
Purity is relational. It is not about rules, but about an intimate relationship with the Lord.
Interestingly, secular culture still upholds certain versions of purity, even if they reject the Christian framework:
- “Purity” in integrity – Many value being authentic and true to one’s principles.
- “Purity” in relationships – Concepts like loyalty and trust are highly valued, even in non-Christian settings.
- “Purity” in health and lifestyle – Movements around clean eating, sober living, and mindfulness emphasize purity. This focus is just in a physical sense rather than a spiritual one.
Final Thought:
Purity is not just about avoiding sin; purity is your undivided devotion to God. When we seek Him wholeheartedly, purity becomes the natural overflow of a heart fixed on Him.
How About You?
Have you ever thought of purity as more than just resisting sin?
What does pursuing purity look like in your daily life?
Let me know what you think.