What Does The Bible Say About Touching Yourself

Written by: Audra SmithPosted in: Spirituality
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Life comes with tough questions, including about private habits. You might wonder, “What does the Bible say about touching yourself?” Many feel awkward discussing this topic but still want clear answers for their spiritual growth.

The Bible doesn’t directly talk about masturbation. Yet, it teaches purity, self-control, and staying free from lustful thoughts. This post will help you understand what scripture says and how to apply its wisdom.

Keep reading—you’ll find guidance that matters.

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Does the Bible Explicitly Mention Masturbation?

The Bible does not directly mention masturbation. It includes no clear verses about touching yourself or the act itself.

Some refer to “the sin of Onan” in Genesis 38:9-10. But this passage refers to Onan’s disobedience in avoiding his duty, not self-stimulation. While Scripture talks a lot about sexual immorality and lusting, it remains silent on masturbation itself.

Key Bible Passages Often Referenced

The Bible does not directly mention touching yourself, but some verses are often linked to the topic. These passages can help you consider purity, self-control, and God’s plan for your life.

Genesis 38:9-10

Onan, in Genesis 38:9-10, refused to fulfill his duty. God told him to produce a child with his brother’s widow, Tamar. Instead of obeying, Onan spilled his semen on the ground during intercourse—known as coitus interruptus—to avoid giving her a child.

This act angered God because it showed greed and selfishness.

Some people debate if this passage condemns masturbation or just Onan’s actions. The focus here seems tied to disobedience and avoiding responsibility for personal gain. It warns against using sexuality in ways that dishonor God’s commands and intentions for relationships.

Leviticus 15:16-18

Leviticus 15:16-18 talks about laws on cleanliness related to bodily discharges. If a man has an emission of semen, he must wash himself and his clothes. He remains unclean until evening.

If you have intimate contact where semen is involved, both people must bathe. They are also considered unclean until evening. This passage doesn’t directly mention masturbating but focuses on ritual purity under Old Testament law.

Matthew 5:28

Jesus said in Matthew 5:28 that looking at someone with lust is like committing adultery in your heart. Lustful thoughts show desires that go against sexual purity. It’s not just actions but intentions that matter to God.

This verse reminds you to guard your mind and control sinful desires. The Holy Spirit helps you resist temptations, including pornography or impure fantasies. Focus on righteousness and seek spiritual intimacy with Christ Jesus instead of feeding lustful thoughts.

1 Corinthians 6:18-20

Flee from sexual immorality. This command in 1 Corinthians 6:18 stresses avoiding sin tied to the body. Sexual sins hurt not just your spirit but also your body, making it unique among sins.

Your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). You belong to God because Jesus Christ paid for you with His life. Honor God by caring for your body and living in purity, as this brings Him glory.

Biblical Principles on Sexual Purity and Self-Control

The Bible teaches the importance of keeping one’s body and heart pure. It encourages self-control and honoring God in all actions and thoughts.

1 Thessalonians 4:3-5

God wants you to live holy and pure lives. 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5 teaches you to stay away from sexual immorality. You should control your body with honor and respect, not in lust like those who do not know God.

This passage calls for sanctification, meaning being set apart for God’s purpose. It reminds you of the importance of self-discipline in all areas, including sexuality. Living this way pleases God and helps guide others toward Him through your actions.

Colossians 3:5

Colossians 3:5 tells you to kill earthly desires. These include lust, impurity, and evil thoughts. It warns against letting such desires control your life. Lust can lead to sin, like fornications or even adultery.

This verse reminds you to focus on godliness and reject idols of worldly pleasure. Sexual tension might tempt you, but self-control is key. Pray for strength and lean on the Spirit of God to overcome temptation.

Galatians 5:16-23

Walk by the Spirit, and you can avoid fleshly desires. Galatians 5:16 clearly states this. It teaches that those led by the Spirit will not follow sinful urges like sexual immorality or impurity.

In verse 19, the passage lists acts of the flesh, such as debauchery and lustful thoughts. Instead, you are called to produce fruits of the Spirit, like love, self-control, and faithfulness.

This helps you live in line with God’s kingdom and purpose for your life.

2 Timothy 2:22

2 Timothy 2:22 tells you to run away from youthful passions. This means avoiding things like lust, temptations, or selfish desires. It calls you to chase after righteousness, faith, love, and peace instead.

These qualities guide you toward living a life that pleases God.

You should focus on building Christian love and staying pure in your heart. Surround yourself with others who call on the name of Jesus with clean hearts. This verse reminds you to stay strong against sinning and lean into God’s grace daily through prayers and right actions.

The Role of the Heart and Intentions

Guarding your heart is vital. Proverbs 4:23 says to keep it safe because life flows from it. Your intentions matter deeply in God’s eyes. Lust can harm your soul and create distance between you and God.

Jesus spoke about this in Matthew 5:28. He warned that lustful thoughts are like committing adultery in your heart. Focus on purity instead of just actions. Pray for the fruit of the Spirit, like self-control, to lead a holy life pleasing to God.

The Rightful Expression of Sexuality

God designed sexuality for love and connection within marriage. It reflects His plan for unity between a husband and wife.

God’s Design for Sexuality in Marriage

Marriage is sacred and should honor God’s design for love. Hebrews 13:4 teaches that marriage must be kept pure, where a husband and wife unite their bodies. This bond reflects trust, love, and selflessness.

Sexuality within marriage serves procreation, too. Genesis 1:28 says to “be fruitful and multiply,” showing its purpose goes beyond pleasure. Through this act of intimacy, couples grow closer while fulfilling God’s plan for families on earth.

1 Corinthians 7:3-5

1 Corinthians 7:3-5 talks about love and respect in marriage. Husbands and wives should care for each other’s needs. The Bible says both belong to each other, not just themselves.

This shows the importance of mutual trust.

You should not withhold affection unless you agree. Even then, it’s only for praying or seeking God together. Afterward, they come back together to avoid temptation from Satan. These verses remind married couples to protect their bond while honoring God’s design for intimacy.

Addressing Lust and Temptation

Lust can trap your mind and lead to poor choices. Stay focused on God’s teachings to avoid falling into harmful desires.

Job 31:1

Job 31:1 talks about committing not to look at others with lust. Job says he made a vow with his eyes to avoid gazing upon women inappropriately. This shows the importance of self-control and avoiding sin that starts in the heart.

The verses also warn against relying on beauty, which can lead to moral failures. Lustful thoughts often tempt you into actions that go against God’s will. Focusing on purity helps guard your soul from harmful desires or distractions.

Matthew 6:33

Focus on God first. Matthew 6:33 tells you to seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness. Make this your priority, and all other needs will follow.

This verse reminds us not to let distractions take over our lives. Pursuing things like lust or temptation can pull us away from God. Set your heart on heaven, not earthly desires, and live for Him fully.

Is Masturbation a Sin?

Masturbation itself is not called a sin in the Bible. But it can lead to sinful thoughts and actions. Philippians 4:8 urges you to think about what is pure and noble. Lustful thoughts or using pornography while masturbating may result in sinfulness.

Habitual masturbation might show a lack of self-control, which goes against biblical principles like Galatians 5:22-23. Your heart’s intent matters, too. If the act feeds selfish desires or lust, it can pull you away from God’s design for purity.

Stay mindful of your choices and seek guidance through prayer and accountability.

Overcoming Temptation with a Biblical Approach

Facing temptation is tough, but the Bible provides clear guidance. You can rely on God’s strength to resist and stay pure.

Avoiding Triggers and Setting Boundaries

Stay away from triggers like pornography, boredom, or frustration. These can lead to sinful thoughts or actions. If boredom tempts you, fill your time with something good—like reading the Bible or helping others.

Remove access to harmful content on devices—block websites and apps that may cause you to sin.

Set clear boundaries for yourself. Avoid rooms or places where temptations grow stronger. Keep busy with activities that honor God’s design for purity. Pray daily for help, staying pure and firm against the devil’s schemes.

Redirect your mind toward Jesus’ teachings whenever lustful thoughts arise.

The Power of Prayer and Seeking God’s Strength

Pray for strength when facing temptation. God hears you and helps through the Holy Spirit. Romans 8:1 reminds you there is no guilt in Christ, so turn to Him. Prayer can calm your heart and guide your choices.

Seek God’s Word daily for support. Verses like James 5:16 urge confession and prayer with others. This builds both faith and accountability within the Christian community. Strength comes from relying on God’s grace, not just yourself.

The Importance of Accountability and Christian Community

Talk to trusted Christians about your struggles. James 5:16 says confessing to others helps healing. Accountability partners can support you in moments of weakness.

A Christian community keeps you focused on God’s path. It offers prayer, guidance, and encouragement as you fight temptation. Leaning on others strengthens faith and builds humility.

Finding Grace and Growth in the Christian Walk

God’s mercy offers hope. 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 shows His faithfulness to guide you. You can grow even after mistakes. Finding grace means trusting Him daily.

Stay close to Jesus through prayer and reading the Bible. Seek forgiveness when you stumble. Being born again brings new strength to walk in purity and love.

Final Thoughts

The Bible doesn’t directly talk about touching yourself. It does, though, give principles like self-control and purity. You are called to honor God with your body and your heart.

When faced with temptation, think deeply about your motives and desires. Pray for strength and seek help from trusted Christians if needed. Focus on living a life that pleases God in every way.

Your journey is not about perfection but growing closer to Him daily!

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