Rules for Christian Dating

By: Jane Saeman Click author's name for more of his/her articles

The basic principles of Christian dating serve as guides for what can be a very confusing experience. Dating, a process of understanding and discovery, is fraught with temptations, while you are taking the first step towards the decision that can shape the rest of your life. The basic principles of Christian dating, then, are a guide to your quest for a spouse.

The basic Christian dating principles are based on the realization that you are gathering two information sets during the dating and mating process. The first set is about the kind of person you are, and the determination of what you value in life. The second set of factors are those about your longed-for mate- what kind of partner you are looking for, what kind of values she or he should have and so forth. Each person you date helps you determine the qualities you need and want in a partner and helps you learn to respect and love others.

Here are the basic principles of Christian dating:
The first Christian dating principle, the most basic one, is that you should not give yourself too much pressure. There is no hard and fast rule about whether you should be in a serious, or not so serious, relationship, with a potential mate at any given age. Those who don't date in high school are no less normal, no less prepared for finding a partner, and on no worse a schedule for finding the love of their life. When you are ready to find your life's partner you'll know.

The second basic principle of Christian dating is that, while casual dating isn't prohibited, you should be aware if your date is looking for something casual or more serious minded. If the latter, it's not right to play with his or her feelings. Those who seek less than totally committed relationships should only date those who feel likewise.

It's important as well that you follow another basic principle of Christian dating as you start your search for a lifetime partner. This principle is that you only date other believers. What you don't want to do is starting dating with the idea that you can partner with someone who is not a believer and convert her or him. You could end up committed to the relationship but your mate not committed to Christ. That could end up causing problems in your relationship.

Perhaps the most important of the basic principles of Christian dating is that you establish appropriate dating boundaries. Avoiding temptation is the most important principle. Compromising morals can take you away from your Lord instead of closer.

As much as we don't want to believe it when we're young and dating; but our parents had to abide by the basic principles of Christian dating at one time themselves and they've learned a few things about choosing the right life partner. Seeking their guidance is a wise decision during your dating time.