Should I Date?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In todays culture, it's hard to get out of higschool without the pressure to date, and in highschool, dating can be one guy for all four years, or it can mean meaningless, selfish relationships, just going through guys like new underwear. By the time you are finished with school, you're in the double digets of how many guys you've been with!

 

It is love that should drive Christian teens to date, but it should not be the shallow version of love. When you date, it should be taken seriously. You should know the person you are dating and know their beliefs.

You should check your potential boyfriend against the values listed in 1 Corinthians 13. Ask yourself if the two of you are patient and kind to one another. Are you envious of one another? Do you boast about one another or to each other? Go through the characteristics to measure your relationship.

 

The number one thing you should look at is yourself. Why do you feel the need to date? Does your need come from pressure from school, friends or family? Are you mature enough to handle caring for someone else, and being in a steady relationship with that person? Do you like this guy because of his ultra hottness, or because he has a gentle spirit and a leading personality that you would one day love to see in a future partener? Does he share the same faith as you? (2 Corinthians 6:14) Make sure you are only dating those who share your beliefs. Otherwise you may find that your relationship is a struggle rather than a joy.

 

I can't say this enough, PRAY before you act one something that 'everyone else is doing' or pushing you to do. If God says no than that means no. He knows what he's talking about and he's protecting you from future harm or heartbreak. Be careful of recreational dating, where you date for the sake of dating. God calls us to love one another, but the scripture is clear that He asks us to be careful. While love is a beautiful thing, the breaking off of relationships is hard. There is a reason they call it a “broken heart.” God understands the power in love and the damage a broken heart can do. This is why it is important for Christian teens to really pray, know their hearts, and listen to God when they decide to date.

 

Did you know that Haley HATES rollercoasters?!?!