Love

1 Corinthians 13:4-7

“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”

Mark 12:30-31

“‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself. There is no commandment greater than these.”

Dating after a divorce enables you to create the relationship you really want. You may be more mindful of your needs and boundaries and better equipped to communicate your wants and expectations to a partner. After taking time for yourself after a divorce, you may emerge from the experience feeling more confident and self-assured as you trust God’s timing and plan.

Still, it can be hard to imagine opening yourself up to someone new after going through such a personal and emotional experience. The idea of choosing to love someone again–and receiving their love–may feel daunting, exciting, or nerve-racking.

Taking the first step back into the dating world is a big one. The second big step is allowing yourself to love again. The best way to prepare your heart and mind for love is to love yourself, love the people you date, and, of course, love God above all else.

Love Yourself

You have to love yourself before you can love others fully since we’re called to love others as ourselves. Self-love is not selfishness. It’s taking the time to nurture your own happiness and well-being. When you love yourself, you treat yourself with kindness and respect. You forgive yourself for your mistakes and shortcomings. You are patient with yourself as you grow and learn. Most importantly, you believe in who you are as a child of God–that you are worthy of love and happiness. When you have that kind of self-love, it’s so much easier to open up and give your love to others.

Love the People You Date

Agape love comes before romantic love. It’s not based on what someone does or who they are but on the pure act of giving and receiving love. This love is patient and kind. It’s selfless and forgiving. It protects others. When you start dating after a divorce, you are putting your heart on the line. But the people you date are putting their hearts on the line too. It’s important to remember that and treat the people you date with kindness and respect. Don’t let your past experiences keep you from softening your heart toward someone new.

Love God Above All Else

To love God is the greatest commandment. No matter what happens, loving God is the best decision you can make. Put God first when dating after a divorce is going great. Put God first if you get your heart broken again. Choose to honor God through the ups and downs, the uncertainties and unexpected blessings. It is only with Him and through Him that dating after a divorce can become a wildly beautiful adventure.

This plan was provided by Upward an app made for Christian singles looking for
meaningful relationships. Get the app here: https://dateupward.me/DatingAfterDivorce