Dating is an important part of life for many people.
It is the journey of getting to know someone, building a relationship, and discovering whether that person is the right one for marriage.
But in a world filled with mixed messages about love, romance, and relationships, it can be hard to know what is right.
People often wonder what the Bible says about dating.
Does God have guidelines for how a person should date?
How should believers approach relationships in a way that honors Him?
While the Bible does not specifically mention modern dating, it does give principles that guide relationships, love, and commitment.
By following biblical wisdom, dating can be a time of joy, growth, and preparation for a future built on faith.
Let’s explore what Scripture teaches about dating and how to approach relationships in a God-honoring way.
Dating With Purpose
One of the most important things to consider about dating is purpose.
The world often treats dating as a casual game—something to do for fun without thinking about the future.
But the Bible teaches that relationships should have meaning.
Every relationship should be taken seriously, especially when it comes to romance.
First Corinthians 10:31 says, “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
Dating should not be about just having fun or filling time—it should be about seeking God’s best.
The ultimate purpose of dating should be marriage.
While dating does not mean a person has to marry the first person they go out with, it does mean they should be intentional.
Dating should not be about selfish desires or fleeting emotions—it should be about finding someone who shares the same faith, values, and commitment to God.
Choosing a Godly Partner
The Bible gives clear instructions about who a believer should be in a relationship with.
Second Corinthians 6:14 warns, “Do not be yoked together with unbelievers.
For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common?
Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?”
This verse is not meant to sound harsh or judgmental—it is meant to protect believers from relationships that could pull them away from God.
A healthy relationship should strengthen faith, not weaken it.
Proverbs 31:30 reminds us, “Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.”
The same applies to men as well.
Outward beauty fades, but a heart devoted to God is what truly matters.
A strong, lasting relationship is not built on looks, money, or status—it is built on faith, character, and shared values.
Guarding the Heart
In today’s culture, relationships often move too fast, both emotionally and physically.
But the Bible encourages people to guard their hearts.
Proverbs 4:23 says, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”
This does not mean building walls or avoiding love—it means being careful about who is given access to the heart.
Jumping into relationships too quickly can lead to unnecessary heartbreak.
It is important to take time, pray, and seek God’s guidance before becoming emotionally attached.
When the heart is guarded with wisdom, relationships are healthier, and decisions are made with clarity.
Purity in Dating
One of the biggest challenges in dating is remaining pure.
The world promotes a casual approach to sex, but the Bible teaches that intimacy is meant for marriage.
First Thessalonians 4:3-5 says, “It is God’s will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality; that each of you should learn to control your own body in a way that is holy and honorable, not in passionate lust like the pagans, who do not know God.”
Physical intimacy is a beautiful gift from God, but it is meant to be experienced within the commitment of marriage.
Hebrews 13:4 states, “Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral.”
True love is not about physical pleasure alone—it is about commitment, trust, and honoring God together.
By staying pure, a couple builds a foundation of respect and self-control, which strengthens the relationship.
Seeking God First
Before entering a relationship, it is important to have a strong relationship with God.
Matthew 6:33 instructs, “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
A relationship should never take the place of God.
Many people think they need another person to make them happy, but true fulfillment comes from God alone.
A relationship should be an addition to a life already full of purpose in Christ.
If someone is not content in God before dating, they will not be content in a relationship either.
A relationship will not fix loneliness, insecurity, or lack of purpose—only God can do that.
When two people put God first, their relationship becomes stronger because it is centered on Him.
Communication and Honesty
A strong relationship requires honest and open communication.
Ephesians 4:25 says, “Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body.”
Honesty is the foundation of trust.
A godly relationship should be built on truth, not deception or hidden motives.
Good communication is not just about talking—it is about listening, understanding, and being willing to grow together.
James 1:19 reminds believers, “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.”
Healthy relationships thrive when both people practice patience, humility, and respect in their conversations.
Patience in Waiting
Waiting for the right person can be difficult.
Many people feel pressure to be in a relationship, fearing they will be alone forever.
But God’s timing is perfect.
Psalm 27:14 encourages, “Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.”
God knows what is best, and He brings people together in His perfect timing.
Rushing into the wrong relationship out of fear or impatience can lead to heartbreak.
It is better to wait for the right person than to settle for someone who is not God’s best.
Lamentations 3:25 assures, “The Lord is good to those whose hope is in Him, to the one who seeks Him.”
Patience allows God to work, shaping both individuals so they are ready for a godly relationship when the time is right.
Seeking Wise Counsel
Dating should not be done in isolation.
Proverbs 15:22 says, “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.”
Seeking advice from parents, mentors, or trusted Christian friends can provide wisdom and guidance.
Others can often see potential problems or blessings that may not be obvious in the moment.
Godly counsel helps keep emotions in check and ensures that a relationship is moving in a healthy direction.
It is important to surround oneself with people who will speak truth, even when it is difficult to hear.
Love That Reflects Christ
The Bible gives a clear description of what love should look like.
First Corinthians 13:4-7 states, “Love is patient, love is kind.
It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.
It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.
Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.
It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”
A godly relationship should reflect this kind of love.
If a relationship is filled with jealousy, selfishness, or dishonesty, it is not built on God’s love.
Love is not just about feelings—it is about commitment, sacrifice, and putting the other person’s needs above one’s own.
Final Thoughts
Dating is not just about finding someone—it is about becoming the person God wants you to be.
A strong, godly relationship is built on faith, honesty, purity, and love that reflects Christ.
The Bible may not mention modern dating, but it gives clear principles on how to build a relationship that honors God.
Seek Him first, guard your heart, choose a partner who shares your faith, and trust in God’s perfect timing.
When dating is done with wisdom and intention, it can be a beautiful journey that leads to a marriage centered on Christ.