### Masturbation in the Bible

Masturbation refers to the act of touching one’s body, particularly private parts, to achieve sexual pleasure. It is often done privately and secretly. While the term “masturbation” is not explicitly mentioned in the Bible, Psalm 19:12 features David asking God to cleanse him from secret sins.

In Matthew 6:6, Jesus teaches that we should pray secretly, promising that the heavenly Father will reward us openly when He sees our private prayers. Jesus also emphasizes that giving and fasting should be discreet so the Father in Heaven acknowledges these acts. This suggests that God values the nature of our secret actions and will reward us based on them.

If individuals choose to touch their bodies for sexual stimulation in secret—considered a “secret sin”—instead of engaging in prayer, fasting, or giving, they will face consequences accordingly.

### Scientific vs. Biblical Perspectives

From a scientific standpoint, masturbation is often seen as a healthy activity that can alleviate stress and anxiety and promote better sleep. However, the Bible offers a different perspective. For example, Joseph, the son of Jacob, faced immense stress and turmoil after being sold into slavery by his brothers. When his mistress tempted him for sexual relations, he chose to flee, knowing that temporary pleasure would not provide him with lasting peace.

The phrase, “Minor fleshly sin pleasures can devour your major blessings,” encapsulates this caution. While such activities may provide temporary relief, they can lead to long-term destruction. Romans 8:5-13 warns that following the desires of the flesh leads to destruction, affecting relationships, family dynamics, and future endeavors. When one focuses solely on fleshly desires, they risk becoming disconnected from the Spirit of God, who is intended to guide them.

Masturbation can lead to becoming a slave to one’s body. As stated in John 8:34, “Whoever sins is a slave to sin.”

### God Designed Sexual Relationships for Couples

Although science may suggest that masturbation is beneficial for sexual health, the Bible teaches that sexual relationships are intended for married couples. Engaging in sexual activities outside of marriage is considered a sin and abomination in the eyes of the Lord.

### Glorifying God Through Our Bodies

The Bible teaches that our bodies are parts of Christ and should not be treated as the bodies of prostitutes (1 Corinthians 6:15). Our bodies are meant to be temples of the Holy Spirit, not dwelling places for sinful desires (1 Corinthians 6:19). Some argue that since they own their bodies, they can choose to do as they wish; however, the Bible states that we are not our own—we have been bought with the precious blood of Jesus Christ.

### A Spiritual and Practical Example

Masturbation often begins with exposure to explicit content. For instance, I recall a teenage girl who regularly attended church but started watching explicit material, which significantly impacted her mindset, leading her to engage in self-stimulation. Similarly, a teenage boy confessed that he had secretly watched his parents’ intimacy and began to imitate it on himself.

### Finding Freedom from This Struggle

To break free from this temptation, one should:

1. Stop watching explicit content.
2. When feeling the urge, declare that your body is the temple of God and that it should be holy, as stated in 1 Peter 1:15.
3. Engage in fasting, prayer, and worship at a spirit-filled and anointed church.

By following these steps, individuals can work toward mastering their desires and finding freedom from the spiritual struggles surrounding masturbation.

”WE ENCOURAGE YOU TO READ BIBLE”