Abstinence: The Practice of Self-Restraint for Spiritual and Personal Wellbeing

Abstinence is the deliberate choice to refrain from actions or indulgences that are harmful or unbeneficial to oneself or others. Rooted in biblical principles, it reflects self-control, love for neighbour, and reverence for the body as the temple of the Holy Spirit. This practice encompasses moral, physical, and spiritual dimensions of Christian living.

Biblical Foundations of Abstinence

Scripture consistently calls believers to abstain from practices that defile the body, damage relationships, or hinder spiritual growth. The principle is not legalism but love and wisdom: "Everything is permissible, but not everything is beneficial" (1 Cor 6:12). Believers are urged to avoid causing others to stumble (1 Cor 8:13; Rom 14:13,20), reflecting a selfless concern for community wellbeing.

In the early church, Gentile believers were instructed to abstain from food offered to idols, sexual immorality, and consuming blood or meat from strangled animals (Acts 15:20). This guidance established clear boundaries for Christian conduct while maintaining unity between Jewish and Gentile believers.

John the Baptist exemplified abstinence through his Nazirite-like vow, abstaining from wine and fermented drink (Lk 1:15). His lifestyle demonstrated how abstinence can set individuals apart for God's special purposes. The Bible commands abstinence from all forms of evil and sinful desires, both in action and thought (1 Thes 5:22; 1 Pet 2:11).

The Ten Commandments embody divine boundaries designed for human flourishing. Just as fire brings danger if mishandled, so too does unchecked desire. The prevailing cultural mantra of "if it feels good, do it" stands in contrast to the Christian call to self-denial and discipline.

Sexual Purity and Moral Boundaries

Sexual purity is a central theme in biblical abstinence. Scripture reserves sexual intimacy for marriage between a man and a woman. Any sexual activity outside this covenant is considered sinful (Gal 5:19-21; Heb 13:4). This includes not only physical acts but also mental lust and pornography consumption (Matt 5:28; Job 31:1).

Abstinence until marriage is distinct from lifelong celibacy and represents a godly expression of self-control. It protects individuals from emotional, physical, and spiritual harm while preserving the sacred nature of marital intimacy. This practice builds character, strengthens faith, and demonstrates obedience to God's design for human sexuality.

The call to sexual purity extends beyond single individuals to married couples, who are called to faithfulness and mutual respect within their covenant relationship. This comprehensive approach to sexual ethics reflects God's desire for human flourishing within His established boundaries.

Physical Health and Bodily Stewardship

The call to abstain extends beyond moral behaviour to physical health. The body is the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor 6:19-20), and believers are to honour God with their bodies. In modern society, this includes limiting or avoiding processed foods high in salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats, as well as abstaining from drugs, alcohol, and smoking.

Is there something I should be saying 'No' to?

Christian abstinence in physical matters recognises that our bodies are not our own but belong to God. This perspective transforms how we approach food, substances, and lifestyle choices. Rather than indulging every desire, believers are called to exercise wisdom and moderation in all things.

Abstinence is not repression but protection, preserving one's witness, health, and relationship with God. It demonstrates that true freedom comes not from unlimited indulgence but from disciplined choices that honour God and benefit others. This practice strengthens spiritual discipline and builds character that extends to all areas of life.

The principle of abstinence also protects our Christian witness. When believers abstain from harmful practices, they demonstrate the transforming power of the Gospel and provide a positive example for others to follow.

Reflection and Application:

Am I holding onto any habit or desire that could cause a fellow believer to stumble? (Rom 14:13)
Do my thoughts and actions reflect sexual purity, both in body and mind? (Mt 5:28; 1 Thes 4:3-4)
Is my lifestyle honouring God with my body, or am I compromising it through harmful substances or excess? (1 Cor 6:19-20)
Where might I need to set godly boundaries to grow in self-control and spiritual maturity? (Gal 5:22-23)