The First Rule of Christian Dating: Honoring God in Your Relationship

What Does It Mean to Honor God in Dating?

Honoring God in your relationship means putting Him first, following biblical principles, and treating each other with love and respect. When you do that, everything else falls into place. A relationship rooted in faith is stronger, more fulfilling, and built to last. Here’s how you can do that:

1. Keep Christ at the Center

A strong Christian relationship starts with a strong faith. Pray together, read the Bible, and encourage each other spiritually. When both of you are focused on God, your relationship will naturally align with His plan.

"But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." (Matthew 6:33)

"Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow." (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10)

Growing in faith together strengthens your bond and gives you a solid foundation to stand on.

2. Set Clear Boundaries

Let’s be real—temptation is a thing. That’s why it’s so important to set boundaries early on. Physical and emotional purity matter, and it’s easier to honor God when you’ve agreed on what’s okay and what’s not.

"For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you abstain from sexual immorality; that each one of you know how to control his own body in holiness and honor." (1 Thessalonians 4:3-5)

"Flee from sexual immorality. Every other sin a person commits is outside the body, but the sexually immoral person sins against his own body." (1 Corinthians 6:18)

Having these conversations might feel awkward at first, but they’re so important for keeping your relationship pure and God-honoring.

3. Seek Godly Wisdom

Surround yourself with people who will support and guide you—mentors, pastors, trusted friends. Having wise counsel helps keep your relationship on track and holds you accountable.

"Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety." (Proverbs 11:14)

"Listen to advice and accept instruction, that you may gain wisdom in the future." (Proverbs 19:20)

It’s okay to ask for help! The best relationships have a strong support system behind them.

4. Date with Marriage in Mind

Christian dating isn’t just about having fun—it’s about figuring out if this person could be your future spouse. If you’re not on the same page about long-term commitment, it’s worth re-evaluating.

"Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh." (Genesis 2:24)

"Do two walk together unless they have agreed to do so?" (Amos 3:3)

That doesn’t mean you have to rush into marriage, but it does mean being intentional about where your relationship is headed.

5. Practice Selflessness and Love

Real love isn’t just about chemistry—it’s about how you treat each other every single day. Love is patient, kind, and selfless. It’s about serving one another and reflecting Christ’s love in your actions.

"Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful." (1 Corinthians 13:4-5)

"Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves." (Philippians 2:3)

A Christ-centered relationship isn’t just about what you get—it’s about what you give.

Why Honoring God Matters in Christian Dating

When you honor God in your relationship, you’re building something that can withstand trials and bring true joy. It’s not just about feeling good in the moment—it’s about creating something that lasts and glorifies Him.

Final Thoughts

The first rule of Christian dating—honoring God—isn’t just a rule. It’s a commitment. When Christ is the foundation of your relationship, you’ll experience love, peace, and purpose like never before. So keep Him at the center, stay true to biblical principles, and trust that He has an amazing plan for your love story.