You may wonder what the Bible has to say about the very personal topic of touching yourself. For many, this can be a sensitive issue, bringing up feelings of guilt or confusion. The Bible doesn’t address it directly by name, but there are principles within scripture that can offer guidance on how we view our bodies and the actions we take. Understanding these principles can help you navigate this topic with a clearer conscience.
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What Does The Bible Say About touching yourself
1 Corinthians 6:18-20
“Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a person commits are outside the body, but whoever sins sexually, sins against their own body. Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.”
These verses suggest that our bodies are sacred spaces, akin to temples for God’s Spirit. Engaging in sexual immorality, which can include inappropriate touch, is seen as a sin against one’s own body.
This scripture urges believers to honor God with their bodies, emphasizing self-control and purity. By recognizing our bodies as temples, we are called to maintain them in a way that upholds our faith and respects the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit.
1 Thessalonians 4:3-5
“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.”
This passage clearly indicates God’s desire for us to live sanctified, pure lives. It speaks to the need for self-control and maintaining holiness and honor.
These verses draw a distinct line between us and those who do not know God, urging us to reject passionate lust and instead seek to honor God through our disciplined actions and self-control.
Matthew 5:28
“But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.”
This verse addresses the issue of lust, which often lies at the heart of inappropriate self-touch. Jesus explains that the act of looking lustfully is equivalent to committing adultery in one’s heart.
Here, we are reminded that sin is not just about actions but also about the thoughts and intentions behind them. Therefore, guarding our thoughts is crucial in maintaining purity.
1 Peter 2:11
“Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul.”
Peter speaks to believers as temporary residents of this world and appeals to them to avoid sinful desires. These desires can cause internal conflict and distance us from our spiritual goals.
This verse calls for a conscious effort to abstain from actions and thoughts that can corrupt the soul, highlighting the ongoing battle between human nature and spiritual purity.
Romans 13:13-14
“Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh.”
Paul advises believers to live honorably and avoid indulging in immoral behaviors. Instead, they are encouraged to embody the values and virtues of Jesus Christ.
This passage highlights the importance of living a life of integrity and avoiding thoughts and actions that cater to fleshly desires, steering us towards a more Christ-centered existence.
Galatians 5:16
“So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.”
Paul emphasizes the importance of living in accordance with the Holy Spirit. By doing so, we can resist the temptation to indulge in sinful desires.
This verse stresses the concept that spiritual guidance and focus can help deter actions that conflict with our faith and morals, enabling us to lead more righteous lives.
Colossians 3:5
“Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry.”
The call here is to actively eradicate aspects of our earthly nature that lead us astray. By doing so, we devote ourselves more fully to God.
This passage serves as a powerful reminder of the need to confront and overcome our sinful inclinations, emphasizing the importance of purity and dedication to our spiritual growth.
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.”
This verse encourages believers, particularly the younger ones, to leave behind their past desires and embrace virtues like righteousness, faith, love, and peace.
This scripture highlights the transformative journey toward spiritual maturity and purity, urging us to align ourselves with others who seek the Lord with sincere hearts.
Proverbs 4:23
“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”
Solomon advises that safeguarding our hearts is paramount because it is the wellspring of our actions and decisions. Keeping our hearts pure is crucial.
This verse underscores the profound influence our internal state has on our external behavior, encouraging us to cultivate a heart that aligns with God’s will and guidance.
1 Corinthians 9:27
“No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.”
Paul speaks of disciplining his body to maintain his spiritual integrity. This implies a commitment to self-control and dedication to his faith’s principles.
This verse reflects the necessity of rigorous self-discipline in living a life of faith, highlighting the ongoing struggle and effort required to uphold one’s spiritual commitments.
Philippians 4:8
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”
Paul provides a list of positive qualities to focus on. By meditating on these, believers can elevate their thoughts and actions, aligning them with divine principles.
This verse serves as a guideline for mental and spiritual focus, reminding us to fill our minds with virtuous and uplifting thoughts that reflect our commitment to God’s teachings.
Psalm 101:3
“I will not look with approval on anything that is vile. I hate what faithless people do; I will have no part in it.”
David’s commitment to avoiding vile and unworthy things emphasizes the importance of discernment and moral integrity in our daily lives.
This verse is a powerful declaration to shun what is morally corrupt and stay away from practices that contradict our faith, cultivating a life of purity and righteousness.
Romans 6:12-13
“Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires. Do not offer any part of yourself to sin as an instrument of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer every part of yourself to him as an instrument of righteousness.”
Paul urges believers to not allow sin to take control of their bodies. Instead, they should dedicate themselves to God, offering their entire being as tools for righteousness.
This passage underscores the concept of whole-hearted devotion to God, challenging us to use our bodies for good, reflecting the transformative power of living in alignment with divine will.
Job 31:1
“I made a covenant with my eyes not to look lustfully at a young woman.”
Job speaks of a personal vow to avoid lustful gazes, highlighting the proactive measures he takes to maintain purity and integrity.
This verse illustrates the importance of making conscious commitments and setting boundaries to keep oneself aligned with spiritual morals and values.
Matthew 5:29-30
“If your right eye causes you to stumble, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. And if your right hand causes you to stumble, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to go into hell.”
Jesus uses strong imagery to emphasize the seriousness of avoiding sin. He suggests drastic measures to prevent oneself from stumbling, indicating the gravity of sin and its consequences.
This passage serves as a cautionary reminder of the lengths we should go to in order to avoid falling into sinful behaviors, illustrating the importance of radical commitment to spiritual purity.
James 1:14-15
“But each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.”
James explains the progression from temptation to sin and ultimately to death. It starts with evil desire, which, if nurtured, leads to sinful actions.
This verse highlights the importance of addressing and overcoming temptation early on to prevent the destructive chain reaction that it can set in motion.
1 John 2:16
“For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world.”
John outlines the sources of worldly temptation, including lust and pride. These do not originate from God, but from worldly influences.
This verse serves as a reminder to identify and resist the allure of worldly temptations, seeking instead to live in accordance with divine principles and values.
Ephesians 5:3
“But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people.”
Paul sets a high standard for believers, urging them to avoid any trace of sexual immorality or impurity. Such behaviors are deemed inappropriate for God’s people.
This passage calls us to a life of exceptional purity and morality, reflecting our commitment to living as holy and dedicated followers of Christ.
Titus 2:11-12
“For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say ‘No’ to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age.”
Paul highlights the role of God’s grace in teaching us to reject ungodly behaviors and worldly desires. It guides us toward self-control and upright living.
This verse emphasizes the transformative power of God’s grace, which not only offers salvation but also instructs us in living lives that reflect our faith and commitment to God’s ways.
1 Corinthians 10:13
“No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.”
Paul reassures believers that their temptations are not unique and that God provides the strength to withstand them. He promises a way out of every temptation.
This verse offers comfort and encouragement, reminding us of God’s faithfulness and the assurance that we are never alone in our struggles against temptation.
Isaiah 33:15-16
“Those who walk righteously and speak what is right, who reject gain from extortion and keep their hands from accepting bribes, who stop their ears against plots of murder and shut their eyes against contemplating evil—they are the ones who will dwell on the heights, whose refuge will be the mountain fortress. Their bread will be supplied, and water will not fail them.”
Isaiah describes the blessings for those who lead righteous lives, rejecting evil and immoral gains. Such individuals find security and provision in God.
This passage highlights the rewards of a righteous life, emphasizing the importance of consistently rejecting sin and upholding moral and ethical integrity.
James 4:7-8
“Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.”
James advises believers to submit to God and resist evil. By drawing closer to God and purifying their hearts, they can overcome sin.
This verse offers a comprehensive approach to overcoming temptation, combining submission to God, active resistance against evil, and the pursuit of inner purification.
2 Corinthians 7:1
“Therefore, since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God.”
Paul calls on believers to cleanse themselves from anything that defiles them, striving for holiness out of reverence for God.
This passage underscores the ongoing process of purification and sanctification, driven by a deep respect and reverence for God, reflecting our dedication to spiritual growth.
Proverbs 5:18-19
“May your fountain be blessed, and may you rejoice in the wife of your youth. A loving doe, a graceful deer—may her breasts satisfy you always, may you ever be intoxicated with her love.”
This proverb encourages finding satisfaction and joy within the sanctity of marriage. It promotes the idea of sexual fulfillment and love within the confines of a committed relationship.
This verse emphasizes the value of genuine, loving relationships, highlighting the importance of mutual satisfaction and fidelity within marriage, aligning with God’s design for human intimacy.