So, you’re a single Christian trying to stay holy while navigating a world that seems determined to throw temptation at you from every direction. It’s like walking through a dessert buffet when you’re on a strict diet. Except instead of desserts, it’s a never-ending stream of, well… you get the idea. Fear not, friend. This guide is here to help you keep your focus on God while keeping your sense of humor intact.
Let’s dive into some practical, warm, and slightly funny strategies to keep those desires in check while living your best single, holy life.
1. Acknowledge the Desire (Because You’re Human)
First off, let’s clear the air: there’s no shame in having desires. God designed you with hormones and a perfectly functioning biology. So, feeling attracted to someone or experiencing sexual desire isn’t a sin—it’s being human.
However, acting on those desires outside God’s boundaries? Well, that’s another story. Acknowledge the feeling, laugh at the absurd timing of it (because let’s face it, it always strikes at the weirdest moments), and commit to managing it in a God-honoring way.
2. Pray… And Be Specific
We’ve all been there: “Lord, help me not think about sex right now. Amen.”
It’s a good start, but how about leveling up that prayer game? Be honest with God about what you’re struggling with. If your mind is wandering while watching a rom-com or you’re feeling extra lonely on a Saturday night, tell Him. God already knows, but there’s power in laying it all out. Plus, pouring your heart out to God can shift your focus and give you peace.
3. Get Busy (No, Not Like That)
The enemy loves idle hands, so make sure you keep yours occupied—preferably with wholesome, productive activities. Volunteer at church, learn a new skill, start a passion project, or work out. Keeping yourself physically and mentally engaged can distract from those not-so-holy urges.
Tip: Stay away from activities that allow too much alone time with your thoughts. You know, like binge-watching romantic dramas or endlessly scrolling through Instagram couples. You’re only human, after all.
4. Find Accountability (A.K.A., Your Holiness Squad)
Surround yourself with people who understand your values and can support you when the going gets tough. Whether it’s a close friend, a mentor, or a church group, having someone to call when temptation strikes can make a world of difference.
But maybe don’t start every conversation with, “Hey, I’m struggling with sexual desire.” Ease into it. Something like, “Hey, can we pray together? I’m going through something” might feel a bit less awkward.
5. Channel Your Energy Creatively
Got all this pent-up passion? Channel it! Write a novel, paint a masterpiece, or tackle your Pinterest DIY board. God gave you creativity for a reason, and turning your energy toward something productive not only keeps your mind busy but might also lead to discovering hidden talents.
Bonus: You can use these talents to impress your future spouse someday. Imagine casually saying, “Oh, that? I painted it during my single years while resisting temptation.” Major brownie points.
6. Guard Your Eyes and Ears
The stuff you consume matters. If you’re constantly bombarded with overly sexualized content, your desires will naturally flare up. Be intentional about what you watch, read, and listen to. Opt for uplifting movies, faith-based books, and worship music that redirects your thoughts to God.
Pro Tip: Set up boundaries on your devices. Apps like Covenant Eyes or accountability software can help you stay on track. And hey, it’s way less stressful than pretending you didn’t watch that questionable movie when someone checks your browser history.
7. Practice Gratitude for Singleness
It’s easy to focus on what you don’t have, but remember: singleness is a gift. It’s a time to grow, explore,