"Since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God." (2 Corinthians 7:1)
1. It is a huge commitment and decision.
I got my first “official” purity ring when I was a junior in high school. I had long ago been fascinated with the idea of saving myself for my husband, and having a husband that did the same for me. The idea of purity is primarily to stay away from sexual activities but there’s a lot more that goes into it. I would NOT suggest getting one if you aren’t serious about it. It was a huge deal that the Jonas Brothers had made the statement to remain celibate until marriage! I can remember what an impact it had on all the fans looking up to them.
2. It is a constant reminder of your promise of purity.
Living a pure life is really hard. And I mean, really hard. We all get stuck in situations where we have to make a decision between being obedient and being selfish. We know the Word calls us to be pure in the heart and the mind, so anything against that is a sin. But of course we always find ourselves in crazy predicaments whether it's with random boys/girls or our boyfriends/girlfriends. Having that ring on your finger is a physical reminder you can see that will make you second guess yourself.
3. It is a nice addition to the jewelry collection.
Every year, my mother promised me a new ring to represent my purity as long as I stayed faithful. I have never been bribed to stay faithful, though (trust me this is something I want to do). It’s really exciting to look forward to a new piece of jewelry. This ring has so much value to it once you start wearing it so you want to make sure that it will be something you love. Since you have to keep it on all the time and you're forced to see it all the time, make it your own! Personalize and style it however you want, if you can! It does not have to be a fancy expensive ring for it to be worthy of adoration.
4. It is a way to find a community.
You can seek out other boys or girls that feel the same or have the same beliefs as you. Whether they wear one or not, they will understand the benefits and struggles of living a pure life. You will find that you can have people to talk to.
5. It is a way to make Christ known.
Obviously we are wearing it as representation of trying to be as Christ-like as possible. Whenever someone brings it up, take it as an opportunity to make Christ known. It is such an informal way to promote good values. We want a person to think, “That’s so different. I really wanna know more.” Let’s embrace the questions and not be ashamed of being different. You're wearing a ring on your wedding finger and you're not married…..expect questions!
6. It is a way to start conversation.
Most people who see a ring on a very young looking person's ring finger will be interested. I remember one time my little baby cousins made fun of me saying, “Do you even know what that finger is for? Are you married or what?” I was obviously embarrassed to be getting made fun of by my 7 and 11 year old cousins, but I explained to them (in kiddie version) of why I was wearing a ring on my wedding finger. So you never know what kind of things you can teach and inform the crowd about. Who knows, maybe you'll come across a future spouse
