Gen Z Daters–This One’s for Youናሙና

Balancing

Christian dating can be tricky because you want to find someone who shares your values, but you also don't want to close yourself off to the idea of love. It's important to find a balance between being open-minded and knowing your standards. If you’re too rigid, you may miss out on an incredible relationship. But if you're too open-minded, you might end up settling for someone who isn’t right for you.

It's okay to be picky about things like religion, lifestyle, and values. In fact, it's probably best to be picky about those things. After all, you're looking for someone you can share your life with, and you want to make sure you're on the same page. The key is to strike a balance between being open-minded and knowing when not to compromise. Here are a few ways to help you do that.

1. Be Honest with Yourself

Part of being open-minded is being honest with yourself. You need to know what you're looking for in a partner and what kind of relationship you're hoping to build. This will help you weed out potential partners who aren't a good match for you and identify those who might be great.

2. Set Some Standards

It's important to have standards when it comes to dating as a Christian. Otherwise, you might end up settling for someone who isn't right for you. Know what qualities are important to you in a partner, and don't compromise. If finding a partner who shares the same beliefs as you is important, talk about religion with someone early on. These days, terms like “Christian” mean many different things to different people. Make sure someone’s words don’t just meet your standards but that their actions do as well.

3. Be Flexible

While you shouldn’t compromise on some things, it’s okay to be flexible about others. Someone’s beliefs are more important than their looks. Be flexible about the ideal appearance you want in someone–you don’t want to miss out on an amazing person because they are a little shorter than you wanted or have brown hair instead of blonde. Be open to adjusting those external standards that don’t hold as much weight as what’s in someone’s heart.

4. Be Patient

If you have high standards and values that aren’t compromisable–like religion or political views–plus you’re looking for a more serious relationship rather than a fling, it might take a while to find a good match. Right now, many Gen Z singles aren’t looking for long-term love. But it’s better to be alone and patient than to rush into a relationship with someone who isn’t the person God has for you.

Start today by asking God to help you find a balance with this prayer:

Dear God,

You know exactly who I need. You know my values and what is important to me. I ask that You would guide me as I begin to talk to and date people so that I can find someone who loves You and is right for me. Please give me the wisdom to know when someone isn’t right and the confidence to end something when it doesn’t glorify You. I trust in Your perfect timing and plan for my future. In Jesus’ name, Amen.