Periodically, I teach the lesson on purity before marriage. It's so important to remind each young person how special they are in the sight of God. Though these are good, God fearing Young Adults, there is a need to help them make it through some of the challenges life will throw their way. One way I do it, is by giving each one an opportunity to make a pledge - between them, God, and another parent or adult. The pledge at the bottom of this page is what we use.
After giving a lesson on purity (body, mind, and spirit) - I offer pledge sheets (2 each), 1 lock, and 1 key to each person who'd like to participate. The pledge sheets are signed between the youth and the adult - they each keep one. The key is given to the adult, the lock is held by the youth. (I get small gold locks from the hardware section - they are sturdy.) When this young person gets married, the adult who was holding the key will present the key to the couple. I've known it to be done privately, and I've seen it implemented in the wedding ceremony. Either way - it's such a joy to know that this is one that satan didn't snare!
I've presented these lessons over the course of 10 years. I'm always amazed when a new young person will approach me and say, "can I have a lock and key also?" - wow, what joy! They are proud of this pledge - because they made a promise to themself, before God - first. It's not just what mom or dad want, and it's not just because Pastor taught it; but it sure will re-enforce the preacher and the parents! I also want to say that I've offered the lock and key to some who have already slipped, or some who were saved "after the fact". Often people look at the one mistake they made and figure that all is lost. I know God forgives, so I offer an opportunity for someone to move on for God: head up, spirit up, from this day forward.
We live in lust-filled times. If our children and young adults are going to survive, we must protect them where we can, encourage them when we can, and pray fervently!
If you don't have a program already implemented in your church or fellowship, consider this one - you can customize it as I did.
God bless!
Sis. Cheryl Thompson
ps - I print the pledge on certificate paper - suitable for framing.
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My Pledge
I pledge to keep my body holy.
My body is the temple of the Lord.
I am special.
What I possess is a special gift;
It is for the “one” that I will share my life with.
To signify my promise,
I am handing over the key to my “lock”.
I will unlock myself for no-one, until I marry.
This KEY should be kept in safe keeping until the day I marry.
Having kept the pledge, this key will be presented to me and my spouse.
As keeper of my key; I ask you to pledge your prayerful
encouragement to me.
Signed this day ___________________________
Lock Holder Signature ___________________________
Key Holder Signature ___________________________
