The Golden Rules Of Online Dating

Online dating can be fun, but it can also be dangerous and scary if you are not aware of what you are leading yourself into. As a Christian, it is recommended to develop a few rules and follow them when you meet a person personally. The following rules might help you keep away from toxic and unhealthy relationships. Read on to find out more:

Stop looking for “the one”
This is mostly because “the one” doesn’t exist. God doesn’t set up marriages as a “divine lottery system” where every person gets one winning “ticket.” Also, it is difficult to deduce through initial meetings whether the person you found on an online dating site is worth marrying or having a relationship with. Marriage is not about finding someone who is totally compatible, it’s about finding someone who is worthy enough for a lifelong commitment. Hence, it is okay to date and not marry that person if you don’t find them compatible enough.

Date someone with similar goals and values
Many online dating websites market the concept of casual hookups, which can be purposeless and has no benefit for Christians. As mentioned in the previous rule, it is okay to date with the trajectory of marriage, but that does not mean you date one person. If a person does not agree with your religious values, faith, and life goals, end the relationship and continue to seek God.

Its okay to not get married
If you have already dated a couple of people you found on an online dating site and are still struggling to get along with a partner, it’s okay to not date. Take your time, step back, and comprehend. You don’t have to rush into a relationship and marry the wrong person. Marriage is a huge sanctifier, but it is not something mandatory. If you are not ready to date, don’t allow the cultural pressure to override your expectations and get married.

Keep your community around
It can be beneficial to be vocal to your community about your dating pursuits. Our own intuitions and feelings about a person can deceive us. Hence, it is important to let your friends know about your relationships so that they are able to see any problems and inconsistencies and help you if you are struggling with them.

Don’t depend on someone for your own happiness
Online dating (or even marriage) might not be a good idea if you rely completely on the opposite person for peace, joy, and happiness. Codependent dating and marriages might eventually crumble due to unrealistic expectations.

Date smarter
Meet them in a public place, like at a restaurant or a watering hole. Drive separately or reach with your group of friends if you are more comfortable and confident having them around. You might have met the person online and talked to them on several occasions, but the reality is that they are still a stranger until you meet them in person.

Stick to moral rules
One of the most important rules of Christian dating is sticking to your moral values. Avoid temptations and stand firm if you are looking for long-term relationships. Physical intimacy also plays a big role in a healthy and serious relationship. Hence, never allow someone to embarrass your morality and essence. Talk to your partner about your physical limits of intimacy and form a mutual understanding about what both of you want from the relationship.