Question: What do you get when you replace the first "t" in texting with an "s"?

Answer: Embarrassment, a bad reputation and possibly a criminal record!

The term "sexting" is derived from blending the words "sex" and "texting." Wikipedia defines it as "the act of sending sexually explicit messages or photos electronically, primarily between cell phones."

Think before you send…

A recent study by the National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy found that 20 percent of teens and 33 percent of young adults surveyed had "electronically sent, or posted online, nude or semi-nude pictures or video of themselves." In the same group, 39 percent of teens and 59 percent of young adults had sent "sexually suggestive messages" (i.e., text rather than pictures or video). These statistics show an appalling lack of self-respect—or concern for others.

The survey sponsors compiled an excellent list of five reasons why sexting is a really bad idea. Take time to read it here.

Vertical thinkers realize that such behavior is merely a form of sexual sin carried out through modern technology. In addition to the moral ramifications, many teens and young adults are facing very serious social and legal consequences.

Reputation and the law

Messages with sexual content are often redistributed to a much larger audience, far beyond the intent of the sender. In a recent Slate.com article titled "Textual Misconduct," journalist Dahlia Lithwick wryly summarized the harshness of this reality: "…young people fail to appreciate that their naked pictures want to roam free."

Many are shocked when things they send or post "privately" roam into view of the entire football team—or worse yet, the whole school—or worse yet, a college recruiter or potential employer—or worse yet, the local police.

Lithwick cites a host of cases at the far end of "worse yet" to consider. In Pennsylvania, Indiana and Ohio, among other states, teens caught sexting have been prosecuted on felony charges of disseminating and possessing child pornography.

The economics of sex

Not surprisingly, the most valuable lesson on this topic comes from the pages of your Bible. Proverbs chapter 5 is a lesson on why sexual purity is so important. Verses 15-17 illustrate the concept with an analogy based on a simple economic principle: The value of an item is determined by how easily it can be obtained.

In other words, something that is unique and rare is more precious than something everybody has access to. These three verses use water as a symbol for a person's sexuality. In that time and geographic location, water was an extremely scarce resource; it was highly prized and closely guarded—still is in many parts of the world.

Our sexuality must be treated the same way. The sexual aspects of our hearts, minds and bodies should be jealously protected and saved for only one person—your husband or wife—whether you are married now or still waiting to meet Mr. or Miss Right.

No "s" in texting

Correctly spelling "texting" requires a wider understanding of the divine value of sexuality. Read "Unintended Consequences vs. Intended Rewards" to learn more.

Don't get involved in sexting for any reason. Nothing is worth allowing your sexuality to become something common and freely available. Instead, guard it diligently, and it will become a treasure of great value for both you and your spouse. VT