In the blink of an eye, you will be hugging your children goodbye and sending them off to college, to a first job, or even to start a family of their own. They’ll bring along a few reminders of home on their new adventure—perhaps a favorite pillow or teddy bear. Will they also take a firm understanding of how faith has made a difference in your life?

It’s easy for Christian parents to assume that their beliefs have been successfully passed on to their children. If the kids attend church, participate in church youth activities, and read the Bible occasionally, all appears to be well—and these are certainly good signs. But as my father once pointed out to me in a letter, “the greatest delusion is to suppose that our children will be devout Christians simply because their parents have been.”

Have you asked your kids lately about what their faith means to them? How much time do they spend weekly in God’s Word? Are you comfortable sharing your beliefs with your kids? Talk with your children, pray for and with them, and make these special moments a family priority. May I suggest that you do it now, while there is still time?

There is no question that God intends for parents to raise children that are “self-controlled and pure” (Titus 2:5). But in an age where “safe sex” is preached with evangelistic fervor by the entertainment industry, the media, and even some leaders in government, we must do everything in our power to counteract these negative influences. The stakes are too high to do otherwise.

Here’s one idea you might try. Years ago, when our daughter, Danae, was a preteen, we presented her with a small gold key. It was attached to a chain worn around her neck and represented the key to her heart. She made a vow then to give that key to one man only—the one who would share her love through the remainder of her life. In a similar way, you could present a special ring to your son. These symbols provide tangible reminders of the lasting, precious gifts of abstinence until marriage and fidelity to a mate for life.

You may think of other ways to encourage your kids to live pure lives. Whatever you choose, we recommend that you act today. In our immoral society, an adolescent who receives the active support of his or her family is much more likely to succeed in living a moral life.