As rocker Lenny Kravitz is about to begin an international tour to promote his first studio album (“It’s Time for a Love Revolution”) in four years, he has also been promoting something very un-rock ‘n roll like–celibacy. But the man who became famous for his flings with hot actresses and songs like “Justify My Love” believes celibacy is, well, a revolutionary act to strengthen his spiritual journey.
In what I found to be a surprisingly thoughtful interview on “CBS News Sunday Morning,” Kravitz talked about his Jewish as well as Christian roots–though he identifies himself as a Christian–and spent most of his time with CBS correspondent Michelle Miller discussing the vow he made to God three years ago to stay celibate.
Despite all of his success, it seems Kravitz still yearns for a permanent love in his life, and he sees this act of celibacy as a way to “help me find the right person.” He said he would not “waiver” in this decision because he believes God will honor the choice he has made.
It’s an idea the likes of Kid Rock and Bret “Rock of Love” Michaels might want to try on for size. But then again there probably isn’t much interest in selling a reality show with lack of sex as a premise.
posted March 24, 2008 at 2:57 pm
I give Lenny a lot of credit. In this day and age, when anything goes, he has taken a stand that is counter-cultural. It takes a tremendous amount of courage, self dicipline and faith to make a promise like this. Lenny has entered into a covenant with God, almost unheard of these days. People who do this are usually professed in a religious order or ordained. I have decided to pray for Lenny. He is in a high profile profession that is subject to a tremendous amount of temptation, influence and noteriety. I pray many will follow his example.
posted March 25, 2008 at 7:59 am
I have no real connection with Lenny Kravitz or his music. But I do remember that he was at one time married to Lisa Bonnet of the Cosby Show. I hope that the two of them have made peace with each other regarding the unhappiness they created in each of their lives. I also hope that Mr. Kravitz stays true to his new found approach to life. He is another case of trying everything except what really works. Trusting in God “to honor his decision” is the first step to a better life. I wish him well and that he will actually find the woman God has meant him to share his life with. It may once again be Lisa Bonet…
posted March 25, 2008 at 9:25 am
I’ve always loved Lenny and his music, and now I love this vow of his.
It’s funny, though, how when Lenny Kravitz promotes celibacy it gets all this support, but when a church proposes celibacy the idea is met with pure venom. Interesting..
Anyway, God bless Lenny Kravitz.
posted March 25, 2008 at 10:36 am
Bless you Mr. Kravitz! I’m sure your Mother would be very proud of you (may she rest in peace). I heard an interview she did years ago. She was very proud of him as not only her son, but an accomplished musician. She was always one of my favorite actors. I, too, have chosen celibacy (7 yrs. and counting). Being a Christian also, I find it interesting that people look at me as though I have a eye in the middle of my head. I resolve not to have sex again until I marry. My husband has been dead for a number of years, and wanted to re-dedicate my life to Christ. I find it something that I hold in high regards. Hopefully, another “Mr. Right” is out there for me.
posted March 25, 2008 at 11:01 am
I pray that Lenny’s walk in celebacy continues to strengthen his walk with Jesus.
I, too, have made a convenant with GOD and have been celibate for ten years.
posted March 25, 2008 at 11:30 am
Yes Lenny K. has taken a very big step in his personal journey and decision to be celibate. It is really not a difficult thing to practice and sustain…my personal experience has found it to be quite liberating. I wish him continued success in this practice, may he receive all the rewards that come as a result—esp finding that one true soul mate. Peace,Love&Light MA of Richmond VA
posted March 25, 2008 at 11:45 am
I’m elated that Lenny Kravitz has come out and taken a stand for God and celibacy. I am practicing celibate also and it a wonderful experience for me. I am able to look past the fleshly concerns and truly devote myself to God fully as a Christian woman. God bless you Lenny — once again thanks for “coming out”.
posted March 25, 2008 at 12:08 pm
we need more celebrities like you, Lenny! I am now celibate but i do struggle with masturbation! I would love prayers from any and everybody. I will beat this devil!!! i no longer want to be held captive to my flesh! Thanks to Lenny i’m not ashamed of this struggle but am asking for prayers from people i don’t even know for it.
posted March 25, 2008 at 12:10 pm
God bless you indeed, Lenny! we need more celebrities like you men and women!!!
posted March 25, 2008 at 1:44 pm
It is a decision I made a long time ago as well, and though I did not understand all the ramafications of such a solemn vow unto God it has made me stronger. My faith is maturing more everyday, the closeness I share with God has never been so alive as it is. I do believe since we are to present our bodies a living sacrifice it is nothing out of the ordinary to remain celibate until marriage. Glad to see others standing up for what is right!
posted March 25, 2008 at 4:32 pm
I will be praying for you for sure Latrice. It is a struggle I have had mystelf, so pray for me too-ok? I also took the road of looking for relationship using sex to get there. That road does not necessarily lead there. The most fulfilling, liberating relationship I have found has been with God the Father, and the Son Jesus who desire relationship with us. He became flesh in order to do so. And from this has come meaningful relationships with other people, seeking to serve not to be served. God bless and keep you all. Thanks to Lenny for standing up for God and God’s ways, which are definitely higher than our own.
posted March 30, 2008 at 7:09 am
Heck, I’d watch a reality show based on celibacy if Lenny were in it. His life was entertaining before, and I have every assurance that it would be anything but boring. Especially now! Because life is anything but boring with God at the head of it all.
posted March 30, 2008 at 10:24 am
Hey Lenny,
I congradulate you !! God doesn’t want us to spread ourselves around like we so often do and will bless you for the commitment youv’e made. I run into , daily, Christians that don’t understand the commitment that I have made to be celebate. I don’t understand how they don’t understand. I just know that it is right and Iv’e grown tired over the years of having relationships based on the physical . May the light of Jesus and The Power of The Holy Spirit be beside you and within you in this journey. Peace To You
posted March 30, 2008 at 11:30 am
Praise God for Lenny, I think one’s body is not to be exploited and used as a physical tool for pleasure. Sex has become so exploited in this world. I wish more men and women would understand this that celibacy is the best godly thing to be until marriage.
posted March 30, 2008 at 1:33 pm
Praise God, Lenny! How refreshing it is to see a young man with his God-given gifts, glorify our Father and sing praises back to Him! To whom much is given, much is required and I give you a lot of credit for realizing this! I am a mother of three grown guys(23, 20 and 17)all of whom have a personal relationship with Jesus…my eldest graduated with honors from a public University and also remained faithful in his pledge to God to be a virgin…and we have a beautiful daughter-in-law. My other guys have pledged the same. I only wish as a mother, I would have known how special it was to wait…how disheartening it was for me to have to tell my guys I didn’t wait…and the consequences that I had to endure. The guy never even knew he had been a father. I aborted without his knowledge. I know Jesus has forgiven me, but you will be blessed when you continue in obedience. I know it is very difficult, but God NEVER gives you more than you can bear(with Him!) God Bless, Lenny! Sincerely, from a mom’s heart!
posted March 30, 2008 at 2:50 pm
I WISH THERE WERE MORE MEN WHO THINK AND BELIEVE THE SAME WAY, IT IS VERY HARD TO STAY STRONG IN A RELATIONSHIP THATS JUST BASED ON SEX. THANK YOU LENNY FOR SETTING A GOOD EXAMPLE.
posted March 31, 2008 at 8:37 pm
CONGRATULATIONS LENNY FOR YOU DECISION. I BELIEVE THAT SEX IS NOT ALL IN LIFE. THAT’S WHAT THIS GENERATION THINK, BUT SEX IS MORE APPRECIATIVE WHEN YOU WAIT AND KEEP YOURSELF VIRGIN UNTIL YOU GET MARRIED. IT’S A WONDERFUL THING. THE WEDDING IS SOOO ROMANTIC AND THE HONEYMOON BETTER.
I WAS MARRIED AT 20 YEAR OF AGE, I AM PROUD TO SAY THAT I WAS A VIRGIN WHEN I GOT MARRIED, AND PROUD TO SAY THAT MY HUSBAND WAS VIRGIN ALSO. OUR HONEYMOON WAS THE BEST ON IN THE WHOLE WORLD.
posted April 1, 2008 at 11:31 am
There is nothing wrong with being celibate. God said that we only needed food, shelter and clothing for survival. I’ve been celibate for so long that people think that I am gay. Of course these people aren’t saved by the blood of the Lamb and I know that God knows that I am not gay. Anyone can have sex with anyone at anytime. I don’t want to be tainted by one night stands or having sex without the benefits of marriage. I gave up sex, drugs and rock-n-roll to rededicate my life to Jesus Christ. My choice is to remain focused on my faith walk with my Lord and Savior.
posted April 1, 2008 at 2:43 pm
Father Knows Best…Blessings & Prayers for all of us to keep to our vows…Amen
posted April 3, 2008 at 6:14 pm
When God sees that you are doing things his way. He will move in your life in a mighty way. I too have done things out of the will of God, but it is not to late to start new as long as your still breathing. May God bless you in everything that you do.
posted April 10, 2008 at 6:41 pm
What a rare statement coming from such an adorable man……….He’s not only sexy but very inspirational as well..If only music videos on Cable would show that as well and there wouldnt be so much promiscuity…
posted December 8, 2008 at 9:44 pm
WOW!! I knew this about Lenny but I needed to read this tonight as I have been struggling about remaining celibate (almost 10yrs). I will stay in prayer for strength. I want to honor God and this has not been an easy task lately. I do pray he will bless me with a husband who is understanding and has patience to wait until we say I do.