Dating in the right Christian context sounds simple enough. At least that's until you actually start making the resolve to get out there. Truth is that many single believers today find that it's a challenge to handle dating, and more than ever guidance is needed in this area.
When's the last time that you heard a preaching, sermon, small group discussion or a simple guided conversation on godly dating in church? For most churches, this happens once a year—in February. And many times single Christians are left to figure things out for themselves.
Dating isn't rocket science, but it isn't a nursery rhyme either. We need guidance in the art of dating.
Here are five things about dating that might not have been discussed in your church yet.
1. Dating Isn't Sinful
I'm a big fan of "I Kissed Dating Goodbye" by Joshua Harris and abide by its principles. But the point of the book isn't that dating is sinful. Dating can be dangerous, especially if we view it in the light of the brokenness of this world.
But that doesn't mean that we should stop considering other people all together. In the right context and with the right boundaries, dating can be helpful and even God-honouring.
2. There Is No Right Age to Start Dating
While there are some general parameters to dating, there's just no giving an absolute time frame to dating. Every love story is different. But the most general way to know if you're ready to date is when you are stable spiritually, emotionally, financially and in other various aspects.
3. Not Everyone Is Destined for Marriage
Some people will date, but others won't. That's because not everyone has to get married and no one should pressure anyone into it. God will often put a desire in the hearts of people, as he did with Paul, to lead a celibate life. Again, every path is different, and God knows whether you're destined for marriage or not.
4. Dating Is Supposed to Be Fun
I hate to admit it, but sometimes church can present courtship and dating as tedious chores that need to be done in the right way. And while there are areas of courtship and dating that must have boundaries and rules, they are also supposed to be fun. Two people coming together to consider marriage is supposed to be a life-altering once-in-a-lifetime experience.
5. Finding the One Is Simple but Tough
Dating is simple, but again it's not easy. That's because finding the one is a valuable aspect of life, and things that are worth it will always be tough. Just like miners dig far and deep for the most precious diamonds, single people must exert all effort in prayer, building their character and trusting God to bring the one into their lives.
