Maintaining Chaste Singleness

17. What are two aids in maintaining chaste singleness?

¹⁷ That a life of singleness can be rewarding is evident from Biblical and modern-day examples. Of course, during whatever period of your life is spent in the single state, you need to ‘stand settled in your heart.’ (1 Corinthians 7:37) But what can help you to maintain chastity while unmarried? The greatest Source of help is Jehovah, the “Hearer of prayer.” (Psalm 65:2) So make it a habit to petition him often. “Persevere in prayer,” asking for God’s spirit and his help in displaying its fruitage, which includes peace and self-control. (Romans 12:12; Luke 11:13; Galatians 5:22, 23) Then, too, with a prayerful attitude, regularly ponder over and always apply the counsel of God’s Word.

18. How does 1 Corinthians 14:20 relate to one’s remaining chaste as an unmarried person?

¹⁸ Another aid in maintaining chaste singleness is avoiding anything that arouses sexual passion. Obviously, this includes pornography and immoral entertainment. Paul said: “Be babes as to badness; yet become full-grown in powers of understanding.” (1 Corinthians 14:20) Do not seek knowledge or experience regarding evil, but with God’s help wisely remain inexperienced and innocent as a baby in this regard. At the same time, remember that sexual immorality and wrongdoing are improper in Jehovah’s sight.

19. What scriptures point to other ways to remain chaste as a single person?

¹⁹ You will also be helped to remain chaste as an unmarried person by guarding your associations. (1 Corinthians 15:33) Avoid associating with those who make sex and marriage big features in their lives and conversations. By all means shun obscene jesting! Paul counseled: “Let fornication and uncleanness of every sort or greediness not even be mentioned among you, just as it befits holy people; neither shameful conduct nor foolish talking nor obscene jesting, things which are not becoming, but rather the giving of thanks.”​—Ephesians 5:3, 4.

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Aids in Maintaining Chaste Singleness

◆ Pray regularly for God’s spirit and his help in displaying its fruitage

◆ Ponder over and always apply the counsel of God’s Word

◆ Avoid pornography and immoral entertainment

◆ Guard your associations

◆ Shun unclean speech and obscene jesting