“I have made a covenant with my eyes; how then could I gaze at a virgin?” – Job 31:1
In our Western society we have seen a great movement over the last several decades away from biblical appropriateness. It began in cinema and has been echoed by fashion and pop culture. It was not that long ago that modesty, decency, and propriety were praised virtues; now they are often ridiculed as out of style and uncool.
As hard as it may be to stand up against the cultural torrents of changing morality it is the key to holiness and Godly living. As Christians we often blame the world for setting a precedent where women dress inappropriately and men cannot keep their eyes or hands off of them. The first thing to remember is that it’s a struggle for women as well. The second thing is this: it’s still our own responsibility to walk in righteousness despite the sins around us, whatever they might be.
Whether you struggle with lust or not, take time today to pray for God to reveal your sin to you. Pray for forgiveness, for strength, for intimacy with Him. It is not wrong to find people attractive. It’s not sinful to be amazed at the beauty of God’s creation. The sin comes from the “gaze”; that is, the longing stare when you cultivate the sinful desires of your heart. As you consider this today, don’t be afraid to call sin what it is. Only then will you be open to what God has for you.
Ancient Abandon 