Dating, a phase of modern relationships, doesn’t have a playbook in the Bible, but there are numerous principles guiding relationships. The Bible primarily encourages relationships built on mutual respect, love, and shared values, emphasizing a shared faith in God. Pursuing relationships that honor God is paramount, as God’s view on relationships is based on holiness and love, and relationships should reflect Jesus’s love for the church. However, relationships marred by sin and devoid of God’s presence might lead us away from our faith.
The journey of relationships is fascinating and multifaceted, and the Bible offers a profound perspective on maintaining healthy and fulfilling connections.
What Does the Bible Say About Dating?
Dating, as we know it, is not directly mentioned in the Bible. However, the scriptures provide wisdom on relationships that can be applied to dating. The essence of any relationship, according to the Bible, is the mutual love, respect, and understanding between individuals, with a foundational relationship with God at the center.
The New Testament provides insights into relationships, emphasizing the importance of shared values, mutual respect, and love, reflective of Jesus’s love. It is a reminder that our relationships should be a reflection of our faith, emphasizing holiness, purity, and the pursuit of God’s presence.
The Bible encourages believers to engage in relationships that are centered around God, leading both individuals closer to Him. Such relationships should not be driven by selfish desires but should be focused on mutual growth in faith and love. In this way, relationships become a spiritual journey, allowing individuals to explore their faith together and deepen their connection with God.
Dating should not be seen as a way to fulfill selfish desires but as an opportunity to honor God by maintaining purity and showing love and respect to the other person. The relationships we form should lead us closer to God, allowing us to reflect Jesus’s love and compassion, and to grow spiritually. They should be free from sin, reflecting the values and principles taught in the scriptures.
Bible Verses About Dating
- 2 Corinthians 6:14 warns against being “unequally yoked” with unbelievers. This implies that believers should seek partners who share their faith and values, allowing for a harmonious and God-centered relationship.
- Proverbs 4:23 advises, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” In the context of dating, this verse reminds us to protect our hearts and to be mindful of our feelings and desires, aligning them with God’s will.
- 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 provides a beautiful depiction of love, describing it as patient, kind, and devoid of envy or pride. It doesn’t dishonor others and is not self-seeking. This is the kind of love that should be present in a dating relationship, reflecting the nature of God’s love for us.
- 1 Corinthians 6:18-20 talks about fleeing from sexual immorality and honoring God with our bodies. In dating, maintaining purity and honoring God with our actions is crucial, as our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit.
- Ephesians 4:2-3 encourages us to be completely humble and gentle; to be patient, bearing with one another in love, making every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. In dating, this is essential in treating each other with respect and understanding, fostering a loving and peaceful relationship.
- Proverbs 3:5-6 urges us to trust in the Lord with all our hearts and lean not on our understanding. In all our ways, we should submit to Him, and He will make our paths straight. This principle is essential in dating, reminding us to place God at the center of our relationships and trust in His guidance.
- Colossians 3:18-19 instructs wives to submit to their husbands and husbands to love their wives. Though this is referring to marriage, the principle can be applied to dating, where mutual respect and love are paramount, preparing couples for a God-honoring marriage.
- Genesis 2:18 declares that it is not good for man to be alone, and thus God created a suitable helper for him. This illustrates God’s intention for companionship, showing that relationships are a natural and essential part of human existence.
- 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5 advises us to abstain from sexual immorality and to control our own bodies in a way that is holy and honorable. This verse highlights the importance of maintaining purity in dating relationships, allowing them to be a reflection of God’s love and holiness.
- Philippians 2:2 calls us to be like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. This verse emphasizes the importance of shared values and goals in dating, allowing couples to grow together in love and faith.
These verses illustrate the importance of centering relationships around God, embracing love, respect, and shared values, and maintaining purity, reflecting God’s view and principles on relationships. By doing so, dating becomes a journey that honors God, fosters spiritual growth, and prepares individuals for a lasting and fulfilling marriage.