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LIFE

Updated 02/12/07

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David Edwards

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Life: How to Get There from Here

Copyright 2006 by Student Leadership University
All rights reserved. No portion of this book may be reproduced,
stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any
meanselectronic, mechanical, photocopy, recording, or any
otherexcept for brief quotation in printed reviews, without the
prior permission of the Publisher.
Published by Nelson Impact, a Division of Thomas Nelson, Inc.,
P.O. Box 141000, Nashville, TN 37214.
All Scripture quotations are taken from The New King James
Version. Copyright 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by
permission. All rights reserved.
ISBN 1-4185-0599-4
Printed in the United States of America
06 07 08 09 RRD 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1

Page design by Crosslin Creative

2743 Douglas Lane, Thompsons Station, Tennessee 37179

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Contents
INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
KEY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
1. Myths, Lies, and Fabrications
About a Pure Life. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2. Purity from the Inside Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
3. Bulletproofing Your Life. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
4. Self-Destruction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
5. Mental Floss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
6. The Person You Want to Be With . . . . . . . . . 83
7. It Matters How You Live . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
8. Its Never Wrong to Do Right. . . . . . . . . . . 111
NOTES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129
ABOUT THE AUTHORS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132

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LIFE

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Chapter 1

MYTHS, LIES, AND

FABRICATIONS
ABOUT
A PURE LIFE
KEY SCRIPTURE
Let no one despise your youth, but be an
example to the believers in word, in conduct,
in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity.
1 Timothy 4:12

Could This Be You?

James J. Braddock was nicknamed Cinderella Man by a reporter
during his 1935 comeback.1 In his first round as a professional boxer, Braddock emerged a winner. But in time, he started losing
the majority of his fights. When the Great
Depression hit in 1929, unable to make
money as a boxer, Braddock left the ring If a mans mind
and returned to the docks so he could pro- becomes pure, his
vide for his family.
surroundings will
The rough years of the Depression af- also become pure.
fected the entire country. Many people Ancient proverb
were starving, men were being laid off
daily, and families were sending their
children to the homes of relatives in the hopes
they might have a better chance of surviving. When Braddock was
unable to find work, the proud ex-boxer swallowed his pride and ap-

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LIFE

plied for relief. He was ashamed to be on welfare, but his wife and
three children needed food.
Finally, in 1934, Braddock got a break. He stepped in as a replacement boxer and won the fight by knocking out his opponent.
His success as a heavyweight boxer continued from 1937
into 1938.2 During the time he was on assistance, Braddock kept a running tally of
God doesnt
all the money hed been given. Now that
remove the
he was able to provide for his family as
consequences of sin,
a boxer, he went back to the welfare ofbut He does walk
fice and returned the money hed been
through them with
given.3 Braddocks thoughts were, They
you.
paid me. I returned it; let them give it to
somebody else because they were good enough to
give it to me. [I was in] a spot where I could pay it back.4

Why Know It?

F Only 6 percent of all teens believe that there are moral
absolutes.5
F Only 9 percent of self-described born-again teens believe
that moral truth is absolute.6

(trans FYOOZ) to cause to pass from one
transfuse
to another; transmit
There has been so much emphasis put on sexual purity
that we may forget how we actually get there. It begins
with a pure heart.
The Christian does choose a different lifestyle than
the culturea meaningful lifestyle. We have to know
why we believe and stand for purity, or ultimately we
get lost in the crowd culture.
Purity is no different than any other goal. It has to
be thought through and broken down into manageable

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MYTHS, LIES, AND

FABRICATIONS ABOUT A PURE LIFE

steps. In setting any goal, there are four questions to

ask:
1. What do I want to do?
2. Why do I want to do it?
3. When will I get it done?
4. How will I accomplish it?
If you take a group of people and allow them to vote
on which of those four are the most important, you will
get four different answers. What seems like the logical
choiceyou have to know exactly, specifically what you
want to accomplish and then the others will naturally
follow, right? How seems logicalyou have to know how
to accomplish the goal. But logic and reason do not drive
us to the finish line. It is only when we have a unmistakable definition of why we want to begin a project, try a
hobby, make a friend, or learn something new that we
are able to not only begin it, but also to finish it. Why
drives the what and how of every goal.

GROUP DISCUSSION
Define why purity is important to you. Write two to three
sentences about it here:
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
Now that you have a strong why on paper, dwell on
it often, think it, tell it, and focus on it.
Those efforts will give you ownership of this important quality so that its not your moms idea or the
churchs idea, but your hearts call.

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LIFE

Casting down arguments and every high thing

that exalts itself against the knowledge of God,
bringing every thought into captivity to the
obedience of Christ. 2 Corinthians 10:5
Popular myths about purity have to be destroyed in your
personal life. Quit arguing with yourself, and stop allowing evil reasoning to rob you of a powerful life. This
reasoning takes us right to the edge of our convictions
how far can we go and not get caught? How far is too
far? If you play on the edge, you will one day fall off the
edge. Once and for all, accept the whole truth and nothing but the truth.

(in FYOOZ) to cause to be permeated with something
infuse
(as a principle or quality) that alters usually for the better
The mind is a powerful motivator. It has the power to
encourage or discourage. It is where the journey to a
devoted heart begins. When the mind is overcome and
taken captive, it lays down all authority of its own and
walks in obedience to Christ. Filling the mind with positive why is essential, but so is destroying the lies that
stand in our way as obstacles to the goal of a pure life.

Myths, Lies, and Fabrications

About a Pure Life
Myth 1: Purity is only about what I do sexually.
Let no one despise your youth, but be
an example to the believers in word,
in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith,
in purity. 1 Timothy 4:12

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MYTHS, LIES, AND

FABRICATIONS ABOUT A PURE LIFE

Truth: Purity is about example.

Paul speaks to young Timothy, who is probably
close to your age, and says, Just because you are young
doesnt mean you cant be an example to others.
F To be an example is to be a pattern for others to
follow.
F It is a huge responsibility, one that only
a pure heart can fulfill.
Truth: Purity is about the influence you can have on others.
Paul tells Timothy to be a positive influence for purity in both his
speech and in his actions.

Did you know that

sex is the most
frequently searched
word on the
Internet?

When influencing others for

good is an essential daily goal,
then we will be inspired to live a life of purity.
ASK YOURSELF
Ask yourself, Why do I want to live a pure life?
You have to have clear, sure answers before you can be
successful in this area. Because Im supposed to will
leave you powerless. Choose to live far above the culture
standards because it is important to you to do so.
Truth: Purity is about what or who you love.
F Who or what holds your affections?
F What type of lifestyle are you drawn to, do you
think about, and do you love?
F The authentic mark of a Christian is a pure love
for people, without regard for selfish gain or love
in return.

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LIFE

Truth: Purity is about attitude.

Attitude may be the one thing holding you back from
living a pure life. If you allow bitterness, anger, jealousy,
or other negative emotions or thoughts to rule, you cannot have a pure heart.

What ONE THING (attitude or negative emotion) in your

life might be keeping you from a pure heart?
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
Myth 2: Its too late for me. Ive made too many mistakes.
Come now, and let us reason together,
says the Lord, Though your sins are like
scarlet, they shall be as white as snow;
though they are red like crimson, they
shall be as wool. Isaiah 1:18
Truth: This argument is not only a lie, but it calls
God a liar.
To say, Its too late is to speak of Christs death
on the cross as though it didnt happen. He came from
heaven to earth, suffered shame, humiliation, pain, and
rose from the dead, all for one reasonthat you could be
forgiven! This lie discounts the forgiveness of God down
to nothing.

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MYTHS, LIES, AND

FABRICATIONS ABOUT A PURE LIFE

Truth: You cannot measure the forgiveness and grace

of God by your own ability to forgive.
The Lord tells us, Sit down and lets talk about this.
He offers to remove the stain on your life thats been
marked with a permanent red dye and make it white like
snow. His is a complete, restoring forgiveness.
How does your attitude toward purity influence
the way you forgive others?
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________

(di FYOOZ) to pour out and permit or cause to spread
diffuse
freely; to extend, scatter
Myth 3: If I choose to do the purity thing, everything
will be all good all at once.
Do not be deceived, God is not mocked;
for whatever a man sows, that he
will also reap. Galatians 6:7
Truth: The depth of Gods mercy and forgiveness does not give us permission to keep sinning.
God is not mocked, Galatians 6:7 says. In other
words, He will not allow His holiness to become an option.
Truth: The pure heart accepts responsibility
for previous choices and the resulting consequences.

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LIFE

A person with a pure heart is willing to make whatever

amends necessary with people. For example, you may
decide to become morally pure once and for all, but
F The people you hurt must be asked for forgive
ness.
F The person you showed the wrong example to
must be talked to.
F The results of your sexual immorality (STDs,
pregnancy, guilt and shame, sinning against a
person) will have to be dealt with.
The good news is that Christ will walk through each
of those situations with you because His grace is more
than sufficient to help you do the right thing and restore
your testimony.
Myth 4: God will give me whatever I want, if I just
stay pure.
For I desire mercy and not sacrifice,
and the knowledge of God more than
burnt offerings. Hosea 6:6
Truth: God doesnt owe you anything.
Live for Him because you love Him, because its the
best choice. Otherwise, forget it.
Myth 5: Purity is about the things I dont do.
For the Lord does not see as man sees, for
man looks at the outward appearance, but the
Lord looks at the heart. 1 Samuel 16:7
Truth: Purity is about the private world, not just
what you dont do outwardly.
The Bible tells us, The Lord looks on the heart.
You might lie to yourself and tell yourself what a great
person you are, but God knows the innermost thoughts
and intents of the heart.

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MYTHS, LIES, AND

FABRICATIONS ABOUT A PURE LIFE

Which purity myth holds a position of power in your

life?
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
Why do you think you have chosen to believe it?
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
Purity is about an undying loyalty to Christ and His will.
Think of the soldier fighting for his country even when
he is wounded and tired and his belly is empty. His loyalty defies circumstances.
Now that you understand the truth about purity,
be ready to share the forgiveness of God with those
who may be facing the consequences of their choices.
Explain that Gods grace will walk with them through
the consequences and that you will be their friend.

[FUSE BOX]

Purity is not just about the body; its about the

whole person, beginning in the private world.

_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________

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LIFE

PRIVATE WORLD devotions

MONDAY: See it. Read the surrounding passages or chapter for
the Key Scripture so that you can get an understanding of the
background and context. This helps you to really see the verse.
TUESDAY: Hear it. Read the daily Key Scripture and/or
surrounding passage out loud, putting your name in, if applicable.
For example, John can do all things through Christ. Thieves have
come to destroy John, but Jesus has come that John might have
eternal life.
WEDNESDAY: Write it. Write the verse and then what it says
about:
F Others: Respond, serve, and love as Jesus would.
F Me: Specific attitudes, choices, or habits.
F God: His love, mercy, holiness, peace, joy, etc.
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________

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MYTHS, LIES, AND

FABRICATIONS ABOUT A PURE LIFE

PRIVATE WORLD JOURNAL

I am grateful forI praise you forI am
feelingI am thinkingI need help with
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________

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LIFE

PRIVATE WORLD devotions (Continued)

THURSDAY: Memorize it. Take the verse with youwrite it on a
card or put it in your phone, iPod, or PDA. Go over it throughout
the day so that it begins to live in your heart and mind.
FRIDAY: Pray it. Personalize the verse as you pray for yourself
or for others or in praise to God. To pray is literally to think
about. Try thinking out loud or writing in your PRIVATE WORLD
JOURNAL.
SATURDAY: Share it. Ask the Lord to bring someone to mind or
in your path today who needs good news. Dont be shyjust let it
out! Whether you IM, write, text, tell, or send it, the joy of Gods
Word will flow from your heart into theirs.

Prayer Requests
Date

Name

Need Answer

_______ __________________ ________________ ______________

_______ __________________ ________________ ______________
_______ __________________ ________________ ______________
_______ __________________ ________________ ______________
_______ __________________ ________________ ______________
_______ __________________ ________________ ______________
_______ __________________ ________________ ______________
_______ __________________ ________________ ______________
_______ __________________ ________________ ______________
_______ __________________ ________________ ______________

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MYTHS, LIES, AND

FABRICATIONS ABOUT A PURE LIFE

PRIVATE WORLD JOURNAL

I am grateful forI praise you forI am
feelingI am thinkingI need help with
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________

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NOTES
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________

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