"I promise to be pure. I promise to wait until marriage to give myself to someone. I pledge this to myself, my future spouse, and to God."
That is an example of a purity vow. Purity vows are declarations of the commitment to remain abstinent until marriage. It can vary from a few short sentences written like the one above, to a long and detailed pledge made in front of others. It is done to solidify a decision and commitment to be and remain pure. Depending on your family, your faith, or your church, your purity vow may be different. Your purity vow may even be silent in your heart. No matter what it looks like for you, here are a few ideas on how to add meaning and strength to your purity vow.
Simple and Quiet Vow
Write it down. You could even write down the vow written above, but it is recommended that you make it personal. Make it something you would say, in your own voice and tone. You could even include why you choose to be pure, why it is important to you. Sign your name at the end. You can choose to put it in your journal and tuck it away, or frame it.
Stated Vow
One of the best ways to keep a commitment, or goal, is to make others aware of it. They will know your goal and will be able to help you keep it. You can simply pledge to your parents that you will be clean or you can attend or organize a purity ball and pledge there.
Promised Vow
Some purity vows may be made with other promises on top. A father and daughter may choose to make promises to each other, along with the daughter making a purity vow.
Prayer Vow
Pray to God, and vow to Him that you will be pure. Keep it between you and Him. Pray consistently for the help to avoid temptation and overcome situations that may challenge your commitment.
Certificate Vow
Purity certificates are popular. On them, you sign your name and have two witnesses sign as well. They often say, "I promise to God, my future mate, and myself, to keep my mind and body morally clean and pure so that when I enter the marriage covenant, I will be able to give myself with a completely clean conscience to my mate." Free purity certificates can be found here. You can easily print, sign, and frame it.
At the end of a vow, participants often put on a purity ring as a constant reminder. You can find purity rings here.
No matter what you choose to do, make sure that it is something you are willing to commit to. Your purity vow will make the biggest impact if it is personal and intimate. Be you, and be ready to commit to purity.