
The Bible does not directly refer to pleasuring yourself or masturbation, but it does provide guidelines on how believers should live a chaste and virtuous life. While pleasure is a gift from God, the Bible warns that sin's pleasure is fleeting and will ultimately leave one bitter and destroy them. Self-gratification, or living according to the flesh, is considered sinful, and Christians are encouraged to abandon their earthly desires and live according to the Spirit, seeking to please God rather than themselves.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Self-pleasure is not explicitly mentioned in the Bible | N/A |
Self-pleasure is considered a synonym for masturbation | N/A |
Self-pleasure is associated with lust and sexual desire, which the Bible advises against | N/A |
Self-pleasure can lead to a focus on self-gratification rather than pleasing God | N/A |
Self-pleasure can be habit-forming and psychologically harmful | N/A |
Self-pleasure is considered a "desire of the flesh" | N/A |
Self-pleasure is considered inconsistent with the clean and selfless life Jesus encourages | N/A |
Self-pleasure is forgivable, and repentance is possible | N/A |
What You'll Learn
The Bible doesn't specifically mention masturbation
Additionally, self-pleasure is often associated with lust and sexual desire towards others, which the Bible advises against. The Bible counsels believers to live a chaste and virtuous life, striving to be like Jesus Christ and doing what He would do. This includes denying oneself and following Christ's teachings, rather than seeking to please oneself.
Some relevant Bible verses that speak to this topic include:
> Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. (Philippians 2:3-4, NIV)
> Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak. (Matthew 26:41, NIV)
> Clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh. (Romans 13:14, NIV)
> Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace. (Romans 8:5-6, NIV)
These verses emphasize the importance of humility, self-denial, and seeking to please God rather than oneself. While pleasure is a gift from God, it should be enjoyed within the context of a healthy, uplifting marriage.
Although the Bible doesn't specifically mention masturbation, it provides clear guidelines on how to live a virtuous and God-pleasing life, which includes avoiding self-gratification and seeking to fulfill higher purposes.
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The Bible teaches how to live a chaste and virtuous life
The Bible does not contain any specific references to masturbation, but it does contain verses that teach Christians how God wants them to behave. The Bible teaches that the Lord wants his followers to live a chaste and virtuous life, and to strive to be like Jesus Christ.
Chastity is the cement of civilization and progress, and obedience to the law of chastity will increase happiness in mortality and make possible progress in eternity. Chastity is defined as the quality of being morally pure, and it can relate to both sexual interactions and conduct, behaviour, and intention in general. The Bible advises young men to approach older women as mothers and younger women as sisters "with all chastity" or "purity" (1 Timothy 5:2).
The Bible teaches that the body is a temple of the Holy Spirit and that it should be glorified and not used for immorality (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). It also teaches that the Lord wants his followers to be watchful in prayer so that they do not fall into temptation (Matthew 26:41).
The Bible also teaches that the Lord wants his followers to clothe themselves with Jesus Christ and not to think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh (Romans 13:14). It is important to live in step with God's spirit and to crucify the flesh, abandoning oneself to the higher purposes of God (Luke 9:23).
The Bible further teaches that the Lord wants his followers to value others above themselves and to look to the interests of others rather than their own (Philippians 2:3-4). It is important to remember that the Lord has better things in mind for his followers and that with his help, they can achieve them.
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Self-gratification is considered a sin
Self-gratification is often associated with "living according to the flesh" (Romans 8:12-13). It is driven by selfish desires, in contrast to self-preservation, which is necessary for survival. While self-preservation leads us to eat when hungry, self-gratification encourages overeating for pleasure. Similarly, while self-preservation leads us to seek sexual intimacy with our spouses, self-gratification seeks the sexual act for its own sake, detached from its intended purpose.
The Bible emphasizes that humans, created in God's image, possess a moral compass that distinguishes us from animals (Genesis 1:27). We have the capacity to reason, love, intuit, and choose to be unselfish. Therefore, we are called to live for God's glory rather than our own pleasure (1 Corinthians 10:31). True pleasure comes from sacrificing our fleshly desires and pursuing God's higher purposes (Luke 9:23).
Additionally, self-gratification can lead to an attitude of selfishness, prioritizing one's desires over the needs of others (Romans 12:3; Philippians 2:3-4). It can result in relationship problems, feelings of isolation, and a focus on immediate gratification rather than long-term joy.
The Bible acknowledges that sin can bring temporary pleasure (Hebrews 11:25), but it ultimately leads to bitterness and destruction (Numbers 32:23). True repentance involves turning from sin and living for God, and He provides the power to flee from sin and seek righteousness.
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True repentance is a turning away from sin
The Bible does not explicitly mention self-pleasure or masturbation, but it does provide guidance on how believers should live a chaste and virtuous life. For instance, Romans 13:14 in the NIV version states: "Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh."
In the Bible, self-gratification is often associated with "living according to the flesh" (Romans 8:12–13). This refers to the selfish part of human nature that seeks immediate gratification without regard for moral boundaries. Self-gratification can lead to a focus on personal pleasure rather than pleasing God (1 Corinthians 10:31).
True repentance involves turning away from sin and towards God. It is not just feeling remorse or regret, but a complete change of orientation, including a judgment of past actions and a deliberate redirection for the future. In the Bible, repentance is demonstrated through a renewed relationship with God, obedience to His Word, and right living.
- Faith in Jesus Christ: Repentance is built on faith in the Lord Jesus Christ as the foundation. We must look to Him as the Author of our salvation if we truly want to put away sin.
- Change of Heart: True repentance involves a "mighty change of heart" (Alma 5:12–14). It is not just a change in actions but a transformation of our desires and motivations.
- Godly Sorrow: True repentance is characterized by a deep realization of having offended God and causing Jesus to suffer. This "godly sorrow" is a gift of the Spirit and leads to a broken heart and a contrite spirit.
- Awareness of Guilt and Sinfulness: True repentance involves recognizing one's own guilt, sinfulness, and helplessness before God.
- Pursuit of Holy Living: Repentance results in a radical and persistent pursuit of holy living, walking with God, and obeying His commands.
In conclusion, while the Bible does not specifically mention self-pleasure, it emphasizes the importance of living a virtuous life that pleases God. True repentance involves turning away from sin, including self-gratification, and surrendering one's life to Jesus. It is a process of changing one's mind, heart, and actions, leading to a closer relationship with God and a life of true joy.
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God can forgive self-pleasure
The Bible does not contain any specific references to masturbation or self-pleasure. However, it does provide guidelines on how Christians should behave and live a chaste and virtuous life. While self-pleasure can seem harmless, it is considered "living according to the flesh" (Romans 8:12–13) and can become a habit that conflicts with a Christian's desire to live a holy life.
The Bible teaches that we are created to please God, not ourselves (1 Corinthians 10:31). True joy comes from abandoning our selfish desires and surrendering to God's higher purposes (Luke 9:23). Self-denial, rather than self-gratification, leads to a deeper and more lasting joy (Acts 5:41).
However, the good news is that God can forgive self-pleasure. The Bible assures us that God's forgiveness is available to all who put their faith in Jesus (Romans 5:1–11; Ephesians 1:13–14; 2:1–10). We are all sinners, and God is faithful to cleanse us and restore us to fellowship with Him when we confess our sins (1 John 1:9; 2:1–2).
Isaiah 1:18 says:
> "Come now, let us reason together, saith the Lord. Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool."
Additionally, Micah 7:18-19 (NIV) states:
> "Who is a God like you, who pardons sin and forgives the transgression of the remnant of his inheritance? You do not stay angry forever but delight to show mercy. You will again have compassion on us; you will tread our sins underfoot and hurl all our iniquities into the depths of the sea."
These verses remind us that God's forgiveness is deep and transformative. He delights in showing mercy and is eager to forgive and bless us when we turn to Him.
To overcome self-pleasure, it is important to connect with others who can support and encourage you, such as fellow Christians in a recovery program or support group. Remember that Jesus has paid for your sins, and He gives you the power to break free from negative habits. Forgiving yourself is ultimately about receiving God's forgiveness and walking in His grace.
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Frequently asked questions
The Bible does not mention pleasuring oneself specifically, but it does provide guidelines on how believers should lead a chaste and virtuous life.
The Bible acknowledges that there can be pleasure in sin, but that it is short-lived (Hebrews 11:25). It also warns that sin will eventually find you out (Numbers 32:23).
Self-gratification is considered sinful in the Bible. It is described as "living according to the flesh" (Romans 8:12–13).
The Bible counsels Christians to avoid lust. It is often associated with self-pleasure and considered a "desire of the flesh."
Yes, the Bible teaches that all sins can be forgiven through confession and repentance. God is ready to forgive and help change actions.