Disciplines of a Godly Man- Chapter 2 Discipline of Purity

In Chapter 2, Hughes teaches that a godly man must pursue sexual and moral purity, especially in his thought life. He explains that purity is not only about outward behavior but about the heart and mind. Sin rarely begins with actions — it starts with what a man allows himself to think about and dwell on.

Hughes points to Jesus’ teaching that lust itself is sin (Matthew 5:27–28). Because of that, purity requires active effort. A man cannot be passive in a culture filled with sexual temptation through media, entertainment, and everyday exposure. Without discipline, the mind will drift toward impurity.

The chapter stresses that impurity damages:


  1. A man’s relationship with God
  2. His respect for women
  3. His marriage
  4. His spiritual authority in the home



Hughes urges men to guard their eyes and their thoughts, take temptation seriously, and remove sources that consistently lead them into sin. This may require accountability with other men, setting boundaries, and intentionally replacing sinful thoughts with Scripture.

The goal is not merely avoiding sin, but cultivating a heart that desires righteousness. A pure life strengthens a man’s walk with God and enables him to lead his wife and family with credibility and spiritual confidence.


Main takeaway:

Purity is not maintained by willpower alone — it is protected by vigilance, discipline, and filling the mind with God’s truth.