Dating, Courting, Marriage – Christina Faith

So, what is dating? I like to describe dating as “testing the waters, without a defined “yes” of getting married in the near future (not 5-10 years from now)”. Dating allows you to sample the product to see if you want it. The outcomes of dating can be to say I like you, I love you, or I like you, I am not ready now, or maybe it can turn into marriage.

But, if you are not ready for marriage, it may be a good idea to stay out of dating. As discussed in another post, sometimes it’s best to be single and grow while you’re alone instead of in a serious relationship.

Dating can even heighten your chances for divorce as well. I know your jaw just dropped even considering that fact. When you date and leave, you develop a low tolerance for staying in a committed relationship. You get used to breaking up, which is “divorce” without papers. Divorce is at an all time high in our society due to couples refusing to workout out differences and bear all things in love.

So, what is your best option for developing a serious relationship geared towards possible marriage? Enter courting. Courtship says, “I am willing to offer this lifetime commitment to wait and obtain what God has for me”. I certainly didn’t get it right all the time while courting, but focusing on what matters paid off.

Dr. Ron Rannikar, author of Choosing God’s Best stated, “It takes faith and courage to wait on God, ‘Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord’ (Psalm 27:14). Waiting for the Lord means pausing for further instructions…God always saves His best for those who are willing to wait for it.” (28-29).

Now, before you move on, think of all the dates you have gone on. Think of all the relationships you have been in. How did you know that they weren’t the one? Courtship takes time, but it’s worth it. I am not suggesting that you don’t date at all, but I am suggesting that you marry to date.

And when you do find the one and get married, don’t ever stop dating them. I mean, what is more fulfilling than being able to spend the rest of your life dating your spouse?