Christian Dating: How To Date Well As Singles?

With a crowd of tips, tricks, advice, or coaching, navigating the dating world can be confusing! But for Christian singles, it could be a unique opportunity to build relationships based on faith, purpose, and shared values. While the specifics may vary among different denominations and individuals, several core principles often guide Christian dating.

Here is a closer look at what dating looks like for many Christian singles.

What Is Dating?

• The Bible doesn’t say, or specify, the term “date” or “dating”. When revisiting history, there are an abundance of made of example of what dating is or isn’t. Christian dating involves pursuing romantic relationships grounded in Christian principles, prioritizing faith, mutual respect, and often abstinence until marriage, with a focus on spiritual compatibility and shared beliefs. Whenever you date, you may encounter people who’s “right way to date” is completely different from your own, because ultimately everyone is guessing.
  
• The art of dating is about intentionally taking time to get to know another person. No more and no less. There is however a guide of stages, that can help us to focus and relax in getting to know someone.

The Word of God provides us with practical biblical wisdom, enabling us as followers of Christ to live in a way that demonstrates His love to others. Having been loved by Christ, we are called to both give and receive love. Jesus’ example of sacrifice defines what true love can and should look like, even in a dating setting.

So, let’s get into the stages.

What Are The Five Stages of Dating?

1. Stage one — Friendship: A lot of singles get this wrong. Dating culture has shaped us with emphasis on the building of romantic relationships first. Without previously knowing one another. You might be shouting, “But that’s what dating is for!” Folks! The truth is you don’t know them! And they don’t know you. So, relax! The value in stage one is friendship. A strong marriage stands on the shoulders of a strong friendship. By truly learning to know one another, the bonus is, even if you aren’t meant for each other, you gain a great friend or leave them better than you found them.
   
2. Stage Two — Dating: Congrats on making it this far! Whether it’s your first, second, or third date, it’s worth celebrating. There’s no one-size-fits-all in dating, but remember to have fun, laugh, talk, be active, and enjoy good food. We suggest following the “three-date rule.” What is that? Well, 83.6% of second dates don’t go well, which is why we recommend giving it three dates. The first two can be awkward, with either party feeling nervous or unsure. So, pause, take a deep breath, and be confident in who you are. A third date is key as it allows both parties to be more relaxed and familiar with each other. (Of course, prioritize your safety above all.)
   
3. Stage Three — Exclusive Dating: After three dates with good communication, both of you are spiritually, mentally, and physically healthy or working on it. Romance is likely blossoming. This stage involves prayerfully committing to date exclusively, having prayed about taking the next step and envisioning life in an intimate relationship. If you reach this stage, it’s advised to stop using dating apps and refrain from dating others. Exclusive dating with more than one person means you’re still in stage two.
   
4. Stage Four — Considering Engagement: This stage often focuses on prayerfully consideration about engagement and ultimately marriage. You should be listening and talking to God and one another, to effectively prepare to walk into marriage together. Getting therapy, mentorship, and prayer support as you transition together into a new stage of life together.
   
5. Stage Five — Engagement: Congratulations on your engagement! This new phase is a shift from “me” to “we,” focusing on serving each other and God. Remember, marriage is a journey with both challenging and joyful days. Stay connected to a supportive community, maintain accountability, and trust in God while practising humility. This is just the beginning!

PLEASE NOTE: That all advice given is not guaranteed structure, but a suggested guide to help you make sense of your season of singleness, while actively searching for a life partner.

If you found reading this helpful, be sure to leave a like ⭐ and comment. Follow us on Instagram, join our Facebook Group community, and consider tuning into our Weekly Podcast. Or attend our Singles Retreats in Scotland. You don’t have to walk through your season of singleness alone, let’s flow in God’s love together.