WHAT DOES GOD SAY ABOUT DATING? "Daughters of Jerusalem, I charge you by the gazelles and by the does of the field: Do not arouse or awaken love until it so desires." – Song of Solomon 2:7 (NIV) The Bible does not explicitly mention modern dating, but it provides principles that shape how believers should approach relationships. In a culture where dating is often pursued without consideration of God’s will, we must remember that love, like every area of life, should be submitted to Christ. Song of Solomon 2:7 warns against awakening love prematurely, reminding us that relationships should be approached with wisdom, patience, and godly purpose. God designed relationships to reflect His covenant love. Marriage, the ultimate goal of godly romance, is a picture of Christ and the Church (Ephesians 5:25-32). This means dating should not be about fleeting emotions or personal gratification but about seeking a relationship that glorifies God. Believers are called to be intentional, ensuring that their relationships reflect the character of Christ — marked by purity, commitment, and selflessness (1 Corinthians 13:4-7). One key biblical principle for relationships is spiritual alignment. 2 Corinthians 6:14 warns against being unequally yoked, emphasizing that a believer’s relationship should encourage spiritual growth, not hinder it. Pursuing someone who does not share your faith can lead to compromise and spiritual struggle. Instead, a Christ-centered relationship should encourage both individuals to grow in their devotion to Jesus, prioritizing Him above all else. Purity and self-control are also crucial in dating. 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5 calls believers to honor God with their bodies, reminding us that true love is not driven by lust but by holiness. While the world promotes relationships based on passion and pleasure, Scripture calls us to a higher standard — one where love is patient, respectful, and Christlike. Proverbs 4:23 advises us to guard our hearts, being cautious not to rush into emotional or physical intimacy without God’s leading. If you are dating or considering a relationship, ask yourself: Is this relationship drawing me closer to Christ? Are we honoring God together? The goal of godly dating is not just companionship but glorifying Jesus in how you love and serve one another. Trust God’s timing, seek His wisdom, and allow Him to shape your heart before pursuing or committing to a relationship. When Christ is at the center, love is not just a feeling — it becomes an expression of God’s grace and faithfulness in your life. Meditate! Am I pursuing relationships in a way that honors Christ? Pray! Lord, help me to trust You with my relationships. Align my heart with Your will and teach me to love as Christ loves—with purity, patience, and purpose. May my relationships bring glory to You. Amen. Act! Reflect on your current or future relationships. Are they aligned with God’s will? Make a commitment to prioritize spiritual growth and purity in your approach to dating. Read! Proverbs 4:23, 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, 2 Corinthians 6:14, 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5, Ephesians 5:25-32. God’s design for love is far greater than what the world offers. Trust Him with your heart, and He will lead you into a relationship that reflects His goodness! SpiritWord × February 22, 2025 (C) Oluremi. OmuAjose, Ijebu. = Thank you for receiving The Word. To get it directly on WhatsApp, please follow our channel http://bit.ly/40W151F. Join us next Thursday online via https://bit.ly/41dqnIJ or onsite at 5:30pm (WAT) as we gather for another DEEPDIVE. You can also be part of CAMPUS KINGDOM DECREES every Thursday at 4am (WAT). Don’t miss it! For Counselling and/or Intercession, kindly mail [email protected]. Know someone looking to build a solid foundation in their Christian walk? Encourage them to join the Believers' Foundational Class! For details, email [email protected]. To get updates, partner/donate and other inquiries related to our ministry operations, please reach us via mail or Whatsapp. See you at 20:45 (NGR) for BUILDUP. https://bit.ly/4jDJORV.