The Bible never uses the word dating, but it speaks clearly to it. God calls you to purity, to godly character, and to seeking a partner who loves the Lord. Dating done His way moves toward marriage with honesty, patience, and honor for one another.
The short answer
Scripture does not give rules for dating by that name, because dating is a modern custom. But God does give plain principles about purity, about the kind of person to marry, and about treating others with love. When you honor those, your relationships honor Him.
God calls you to keep yourself pure
The first thing God asks of any relationship before marriage is purity. Your body belongs to the Lord, and He asks you to keep it holy. This is not to steal your joy but to protect it, so that intimacy stays where God designed it, inside marriage.
"For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication."1 Thessalonians 4:3
Purity is not only about the body. It is about the heart, the eyes, and the mind. God can help you guard all of these, and He is faithful to give strength when you ask Him.
Marry someone who loves the Lord
One of the wisest choices you will ever make is who you tie your life to. God warns believers not to bind themselves to those who do not share their faith, because two people walking in opposite directions cannot walk together in peace.
"Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?"2 Corinthians 6:14
This is not a harsh rule. It is a loving guardrail. When both of you love Christ, you can pray together, forgive together, and build a home on the same solid rock.
Look for character, not just charm
Feelings and appearance fade. Character lasts. The Bible urges you to weigh the inner person over outward attraction, because a beautiful life is worth far more than a beautiful face.
"Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised."Proverbs 31:30
Watch how a person treats their family, their friends, and God. Watch whether they keep their word. These quiet things tell you far more than a first impression ever could.
Move toward marriage, not just romance
God designed the love between a man and a woman to lead somewhere good and lasting. From the beginning, His plan was for the two to become one in marriage, a covenant of faithfulness and joy.
"Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh."Genesis 2:24
Ask yourself where a relationship is headed. Dating with no direction can wound both hearts. Dating that seeks God's good gift of marriage brings clarity and peace.
A common misunderstanding
Many think that because the Bible does not list dating rules, it has nothing to say. That is not true. God's principles of purity, wisdom, and love cover every relationship you will ever have. And some think love means giving in to every desire. Real love does the opposite, it protects and waits.
"Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up."1 Corinthians 13:4
Love that is patient and kind is love that lasts. Do not let anyone tell you that waiting is old fashioned. God's way is always the way that protects your heart.
You are welcome to talk with us
Here in Greenwood, we know dating can bring both joy and confusion, and we would count it a privilege to walk with you through it. Whether you are single, courting, or praying about the future, God has good things to say to you. Please reach out any time with your questions, and come visit us this Sunday so we can encourage you in person.