Tips on Effective Christian Dating

If you want to date another Christian, consider getting involved in singles groups or other fellowship activities at church. You're also likely to meet Christians at Christian concerts and conventions. In addition, several Christian dating websites are designed to help you meet people who share your faith.

Lots of people try to tell you what you can and can't do, but don't trust someone else's interpretation or beliefs. Spend time in prayer or meditation before you start dating and decide how to set your boundaries. For example, maybe you only want to kiss before marriage, or perhaps you want dates to be chaperoned for the first month of getting to know someone. Figure your boundaries out before you meet someone, and then discuss with them how you want to conduct the relationship.

Plan dates so you can avoid situations that involve temptation. For example, consider going to a movie theater instead of watching movies at your girlfriend's apartment, or go on double dates with other Christian couples. Other date ideas include going on a picnic, going rollerskating, ice skating or bowling.

Verses from the Bible often discuss love, which can help Christians recognize true love. For example, 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 states that "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. ... It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres." 1 John 4:18 states that "There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear." Comparing your relationship to these descriptions of love can help you determine whether a person is right for you and how you can work to improve your relationship.