Before “I do”…
We pursued purity in our dating relationship until we were married. That’s right, he/I didn’t get any until we said “I do” . I share this not to brag or to try put us on a some sort of pedestal because it wasn’t easy and nor were we able to do it that in our own strength because that’s a challenging commitment (but truthfully what type of commitment isn’t some sort of challenge).
Anyway, our commitment to do this was for God and the focus was to honor and please him. It was the strength of the Lord and our resolve that helped us through that season. We held each other accountable and developed spiritual muscles that would benefit us for marriage.
I know culture will tell you that’s “old fashioned” but God’s standard never goes out of style and there’s always blessings tied to obedience.