2. Introduction In this age of romanticism – we love the story of “Prince Charming”. Romance and “real life”, however, class and bring many an unforeseen reality of married life. While many Christians want an “ideal marriage” how many have taken the time to prepare for it?

3. Making The Dream a Biblical Reality Parents, we only have a few fleeting years preparing our children for the greatest marriage of all: the Prince of Peace. Those purposefully and genuinely “married” to Christ will prepare themselves for their future spouse. Eph. 5:22-33 (v. 32)

4. The Season of Being “Single” Too many parents and/or young adults fail to recognize or seize this season of life as an unique opportunity to exercise and grow into manhood or womanhood… to use this time as preparation for the possibility of marriage some day.

5. How much more do we need to witness before realizing today’s Christian families are woefully equipped when having their children enter marriage?

6. Parental Preparation It is OUR responsibility to guard the hearts of our children. cp. 2 Cor. 11:2 –We have an obligation to present our daughters to their future husbands...pure. v. 3 –We have an obligation to groom our sons to be like the Bridegroom: Jesus Christ. Prov. 22:6 (Lk. 2:52)

7. This is also a time to guard their hearts from dangerous traps that the worldly foolishly partakes: casual dating that often turn into regrettable memories.

8. Preparation for a Princess Pure: physically and emotionally. –By helping others in need. Cp. Prov. 31:10ff –By thinking, praying, and seeking wise counsel. cp. Phil. 4:8 Pure in perspective. 1 Sam. 16:6-7 Pure in perseverance. 1 Cor. 7:34-35

9. The more she is set on her heavenly Prince the better she’ll be prepared for her earthly prince.

10. The Prince’s Part He too is preparing himself for her while serving His heavenly king: learning to be a protector and provider. Gen. 2:15; 1 Tim. 5:8 While serving the King of kings he is proves himself before the father who would give his daughter to him. cp. Gen. 29:18

11. Ultimately, he proves that he is worthy before a pure, chaste virgin who has prepared herself for her Christ.

12. Conclusion God will bless our young who secure their hearts upon Him. Parents: don’t let these years pass in regret, wishing they find someone “good”. Prepare your sons/daughters to be the princes and princesses in Christ’s kingdom: ready for marriage.