In 1 John 2:14b the writer states one of the reasons he wrote to the youth audience. He clearly identifies their strength and the potential ability of letting the Word of God dwell in them. This gives them victory over the evil one.
One of the areas young people face the fiercest battles is in their Purity. There seem to be a decline in the standards set by youths in this area even though God’s standards for human purity remain the same regardless of time and space. In Hebrews 13:4, we are told that Marriage is to be held in honour among all (Including those who are not believers), and the marriage bed is top be undefiled; for fornicators (Unmarried) and adulterers God will Judge. God upholds marriage at a very high standard.
The theme of the NavYouth Hangout which held last Sunday 10th November 2024 at the Navigators Center here in Yaoundé was: Dating, Engagement and Marriage – Biblical Guidelines for singles. We had about 40 singles in attendance and held frank discussions on the topic over the Word of God. It was both very instructive and fun. Some of the lessons drawn from the time included:
- Dating is a high risk activity and must be practiced by those who are ready for marriage under spiritual and parental supervision.
- Dating has had a decline in its moral value over the years since the 1920s
- Today dating is practiced by as young as preteens and the activities are limitless under no supervision. This is the leading cause of broken relationships, teenage pregnancies, school dropouts, sexually transmissible diseases and infections, homosexuality, lesbianism, and the likes.
- It is not too late to fix problems caused by poor dating relationships. God is able to restore those who genuinely seek his help.
Some testimonies:
- “Thank you so much for this timely edification and instructions. It is clear to me now when and how to date in order to honour God with my body”. – (Edmond)
- “I now know what to do when someone tells me he wants us to date. He has to come talk to my parents and to my spiritual leaders and let them supervise the activity which should be carried out in all purity” – Nyango (18)
- “I am either married or Single. No middle status. Dating should be a marriage project and not for any other reason”. – Gabby (16)
- “I never knew that a sexual sin before marriage was defiling the future marriage bed. I now repent” – Idriss (28)
Our time ended with a prayer that drew our hearts closer to God in repentance and recommitment.
Wilson and Rose Yuniwo
MPD Coach/Family Life Ministry
Wow I am so Glad to hear about the Report, It’s Enriching
I was late for the hangout, so this review is really helpful and clear, I have references to help me stay on God’s path for me for a marriage project.
Absolutely Johnny.
I couldn’t help but notice a lot of spiritual truths from what the speakers of this program brought fort. How the answered every questions was even more amazing 🙌. Learned a lot and looking forward for the next program
The theme is up-to-date, especially as we consider the current age.
Friends, relatives and colleagues stigmatise and laugh at people who try to follow godly values. But, anyone struggling with this topic or who want to give in to pressure should remember that the society will not judge us, God will based on His standards.
Thank you for training youths that will make a difference for themselves and for God.