How do I stop committing fornication?
Question:
Good evening,
I’m in my thirties. I have been in a relationship for a number of years, Prior to my current relationship, I had two other sexual partners. I am currently sexually active with my current partner, though we are not married. My relationship with the Lord has been on and off. I have tried to quit fornication, but I keep failing. To make matters worse, we had an abortion a few years ago. I cannot explain how much regret I have about this.
I have tried to discuss this with my girlfriend, and we do have plans to get married, but there are other factors that keep us from doing so. I have had given my life to the Lord Jesus Christ at a young age. I was 15 or 16, I can’t really remember. Is there a way for me to turn and run from this sin?
Your recommendation is greatly appreciated. Please help me.
Answer:
Many people talk about giving their lives to Christ, but it is just words. They never actually look to see what the Lord requires of them to enter into a covenant with Him. See What Must I Do to Be Saved?
As Christians, there are actions we must avoid because they cause harm. "Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God" (Galatians 5:19-21). You've confessed that you have be been involved in at least four of these sins. I'm pointing this out because you need to see the serious consequences of your sins. Are the "other factors that keep" you from marrying really going to seem that important when you stand before God in Judgment?
There is no reason you can't arrange to have a civil marriage. In almost every country they are quick and inexpensive.
Jesus warned, "Enter through the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the way is broad that leads to destruction, and there are many who enter through it. For the gate is small and the way is narrow that leads to life, and there are few who find it" (Matthew 7:13-14). Few manage to reach heaven because they stubbornly cling to their sins. They want benefits without effort; yet, that is the way to hell. So stop with the excuses and change your life.
