Fruitful Dating

DATING. Like, what does that even mean in today’s world? Is this still, even a thing? I don’t think anyone is oblivious to the fact that times has surely changed since the days of our youth and especially, since the days of our parents youth. Dating appeared to be purposeful at some point of time, now, it seems like people only care about, “hooking up”. Call me old school, but it just seems right, to at least have a verbal conversation with a person outside of  texting and emoji’s. Is dating just a thing that has become outdated? Well, as a Christian, we should be more concerned with what God thinks about dating and what it looks like to date as a Christian, if that’s what we choose to do.

“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”

Matthew 6:33 NIV

We are called to seek the Kingdom of God, FIRST. As Christians, we are also called to seek God’s righteousness, not the world and not our flesh, but God, and everything that is attached to Him. If we are only seeking to date for the purpose of satisfying our sexual desires, then we are not seeking God, nor, adding to His Kingdom. If we choose to date without intentions to marry, then we are only seeking to gratify our flesh. Christian dating must be purposeful, it must be righteous and it must mirror God and not the world. We just can’t do as the world does. We must try our best to reflect the glorious FRUITS OF THE SPIRIT. If you are currently in a dating season, or thinking of dating, I want to encourage you to:

1.     Be accountable

2.     Be Authentic

3.     Be modest

4.     Be patient

5.     Don’t settle

6.     Don’t sacrifice your faith nor boundaries

7.     Heal from past relationship pains

8.     Step out on faith and be brave

“Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.” Psalms 37:4 NIV

Dating can be scary, but it can also be very rewarding as you get to know yourself on a deeper level. Don’t be afraid to try something new . Make a list of what you want in a partner, but don’t be unrealistic. It’s easy to acknowledge what YOU WANT, but also focus on what THEY WANT as well. It’s not all about YOU! Take your time and don’t rush the process; you may find that you are just not as ready as you thought, to begin dating. Whatever the case may be, always keep in mind, as a Christian:

1.     Dating should be purposeful (marriage) and not just something to fill voids.

2.     God is trusting you with His son/daughter.

3.     Treat people as God treats you.

4.     Seek first the Kingdom and God’s righteousness.

5.     Be spiritually yoked

6.     Be a safe place.

7.     Pre-marital sex removes you from God’s alignment and could block a blessing.

8.     Don’t rush the process, get to know the other person and allow for them to get to know you.

9.     Pray for God’s guidance.

10.  Set boundaries.

“Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?” 2 Corinthians 6:14 NIV