Moving Forward or Not

Philippians 4:6

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”

As you embark on this journey, you’ll experience a range of emotions. You may feel strong romantic feelings and be eager to pursue them. You may also realize there isn’t the potential for anything more than friends. In either situation, patience is key.

Patience in Growth

It’s tempting to rush out of friendship and into romance when you see a glimmer of potential or when loneliness creeps in. However, patience plays a crucial role in developing any meaningful relationship. Like fruit that needs time to ripen, a relationship needs time to grow and deepen. This period of growth allows you to truly understand each other's values, aspirations, and quirks.

When you start to see the potential for something deeper, use that as motivation to invest more time and energy into building a strong foundation. This doesn’t mean waiting indefinitely for signs of progress but recognizing and appreciating the natural pace at which your relationship evolves. Cherish the small moments of connection and understanding, for these are the seeds from which a great relationship can blossom.

Navigating Uncertainty

The absence of immediate sparks shouldn't be a signal to abandon ship at the first sign of doubt. In many cases, the most rewarding relationships are those that didn’t fit the mold of love at first sight but developed over time through shared experiences and challenges. If the relationship doesn't show signs of romantic depth right away, consider it an opportunity to explore a different type of connection. It’s essential to communicate your feelings and expectations openly, ensuring you both understand where the other person is emotionally.

Give yourself permission to explore the relationship without the pressure of defining its trajectory from the outset. Sometimes, the most profound connections are formed through a slow burn, gradually building trust and affection. Every relationship has its unique rhythm and timing; what matters most is finding joy and growth in the journey together.

No matter which situation you find yourself in, remember to keep God at the center of it. Pray continually that He’ll reveal His will for your life and relationship. The friends-first approach isn't a one-size-fits-all solution to Christian dating, but it can provide a strong foundation for a lasting, meaningful relationship.

We invite you to join us on Upward if you are a single Christian seeking a meaningful relationship.