The Bible addresses relationships between believers and non-believers, cautioning against being “unequally yoked” (2 Corinthians 6:14). While dating isn’t specifically mentioned, the principle encourages Christians to prioritize shared faith in their closest relationships, seeking partners who align with their spiritual beliefs.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About vibrations
What Does The Bible Say About dating a non believer
2 Corinthians 6:14
“Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?”
This verse highlights the importance of not being romantically involved with someone who does not share your faith. In a relationship, it is crucial to have shared values, beliefs, and goals. Being yoked together with an unbeliever can lead to conflicts, unease, and an inability to grow spiritually together.
Personal Commentary: As a Christian, I have experienced the challenges and conflicts that can arise when dating someone who does not share my faith. It is essential to seek a partner who can support and encourage me in my walk with God. While it may be tempting to enter into a relationship with someone who does not share my beliefs, I have learned to prioritize my spiritual well-being and wait for someone who shares my faith.
1 Corinthians 7:39
“A woman is bound to her husband as long as he lives. But if her husband dies, she is free to marry anyone she wishes, but he must belong to the Lord.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of marrying someone who belongs to the Lord. It reminds us that marriage is a lifelong commitment and that our spouse should share our faith. A strong spiritual foundation in a marriage not only strengthens the relationship but also allows for support, understanding, and shared values.
Personal Commentary: I have witnessed the beauty of a marriage built on a shared faith. When both partners belong to the Lord, they can uplift and encourage each other in their spiritual journey. This verse also offers hope for those who may have lost a spouse, reminding them that they are free to marry someone who belongs to the Lord. It reinforces the importance of seeking a partner who shares our faith and values.
Proverbs 31:30
“Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.”
This verse reminds us that true beauty lies in a woman’s reverence for the Lord. While physical appearances may fade over time, a woman who fears and honors God deserves admiration. It highlights the value and importance of seeking a partner who prioritizes their relationship with God.
Personal Commentary: In today’s society, where beauty is often emphasized and idolized, this verse serves as a powerful reminder of what truly matters. As a Christian, I have learned to appreciate the qualities that stem from one’s faith rather than superficial attributes. It is a reminder to pursue a relationship based on shared values and a genuine love for God.
1 Peter 3:1
“Wives, in the same way, submit yourselves to your own husbands so that, if any of them do not believe the word, they may be won over without words by the behavior of their wives.”
This verse speaks to wives and emphasizes the power of a woman’s behavior in influencing her unbelieving husband. While it is not advisable to enter into a relationship with a non-believer, if circumstances arise where one spouse comes to faith after marriage, the believing spouse can lead by example, displaying Christ’s love and values.
Personal Commentary: I have seen the impact of a godly wife on her husband’s spiritual journey. While it’s ideal to be in a relationship with someone who shares your faith from the beginning, this verse offers hope and guidance for those who may find themselves in a marriage where one partner is an unbeliever. It encourages wives to demonstrate Christ’s love through their actions, in the hopes of influencing their husbands towards faith.
Proverbs 16:3
“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.”
This verse teaches us to surrender our dating life, along with all aspects of our lives, to the Lord. By entrusting our plans and desires to Him, we can be confident that He will direct our paths and lead us towards a relationship that aligns with His will.
Personal Commentary: In my own journey of dating, I have learned the importance of surrendering my desires and plans to God. It is easy to get caught up in the world’s views on dating and relationships. However, committing my dating life to the Lord has brought me peace and assurance that He is in control. Through prayer and seeking His guidance, I have found comfort in knowing that He has a plan for my life, which includes my love life.
Psalm 37:4
“Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.”
This verse reminds us that when we find our joy and satisfaction in the Lord, He fulfills the desires within our hearts. In the context of dating, it encourages us to prioritize our relationship with God before seeking a romantic relationship, trusting that He will provide for us.
Personal Commentary: As a Christian, I have discovered the importance of finding my fulfillment and joy in the Lord rather than solely seeking it in a romantic partner. This verse has been a source of encouragement and reassurance that God knows the desires of my heart. By delighting myself in Him, I have experienced His faithfulness in providing what is best for me.
Proverbs 18:22
“He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the Lord.”
This verse emphasizes the blessing of finding a godly spouse. It reminds us that marriage is a gift from God and that when we find a virtuous wife or husband, we receive favor and goodness from the Lord.
Personal Commentary: This verse has always reminded me of the significance of finding a spouse who shares my faith. It reinforces the idea that a godly marriage is a beautiful partnership that brings favor from the Lord. As I journey through my own relationships, I strive to seek out a spouse who will bring me closer to God and with whom I can experience the blessings of a Christ-centered marriage.
1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”
This verse encourages believers to support and encourage one another. In the context of relationships, it reminds us of the importance of being with someone who will uplift and build us up in our faith.
Personal Commentary: Having a partner who encourages and supports me in my walk with Christ has been transformative. This verse reminds me of the significance of finding a relationship where both individuals can inspire each other spiritually. In my own experiences, I have felt the positive impact of being with someone who genuinely cares about my faith and helps me grow.
Ephesians 5:25
“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.”
This verse instructs husbands to love their wives sacrificially, just as Christ loved the church. It emphasizes the selfless and unconditional love that should be present within a Christ-centered marriage.
Personal Commentary: This verse challenges husbands to model their love after Christ’s example. As a Christian woman, I aspire to be with a man who loves me sacrificially and selflessly, just as Christ loves the church. It reminds me of the type of love that I deserve and should seek in a relationship.
1 Peter 4:8
“Above all, love each other deeply because love covers over a multitude of sins.”
This verse encourages believers to love one another deeply and wholeheartedly. In the context of relationships, it reminds us that love should be an overarching principle, forgiving and covering over faults and mistakes.
Personal Commentary: This verse resonates deeply with me, emphasizing the importance of love in relationships. Love that is patient, kind, and forgiving can withstand the challenges and mistakes that inevitably arise. In my own journey, I have learned to prioritize love in all my relationships and seek a partner who embodies these qualities.
Hebrews 10:24
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.”
This verse encourages believers to motivate and inspire one another to love and perform good deeds. In the context of relationships, it highlights the significance of being with a partner who challenges us to grow spiritually and live out our faith in tangible ways.
Personal Commentary: I have witnessed the power of a relationship where both partners are committed to spurring one another on towards love and good deeds. It has been encouraging and transformative to have a partner who actively encourages me to live out my faith and make a positive impact in the world.
Philippians 2:3
“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.”
This verse teaches us to prioritize humility and selflessness in our relationships. Instead of seeking our own interests, we are called to value and consider the needs of others, including our romantic partners.
Personal Commentary: Humility and selflessness are crucial traits to cultivate within a relationship. This verse has reminded me to prioritize the well-being and needs of my partner above my own. It serves as a constant reminder to continuously strive for humility in all my relationships.
Colossians 3:14
“And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.”
This verse emphasizes the centrality of love in relationships. Love serves as the binding force that unites all virtues and promotes unity within a partnership.
Personal Commentary: Love is the foundation of every successful relationship. This verse reminds me of the importance of love in every aspect of my life, including my romantic relationships. It encourages me to foster a love that is selfless, patient, and forgiving, enabling me to find unity with my partner.
1 John 3:18
“Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.”
This verse challenges us to demonstrate love through our actions, rather than mere words. In the context of relationships, it encourages us to show love through kindness, compassion, and selflessness.
Personal Commentary: Love is not merely expressed through words but through genuine actions. This verse has reminded me of the importance of showing love in practical ways within my relationships. It calls me to go beyond empty declarations and to actively demonstrate love through my actions, making a positive impact on those around me.
Colossians 3:20
“Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord.”
This verse speaks to children, urging them to obey their parents in all things. In the context of dating, it reminds us of the importance of honoring and respecting our parents’ guidance and wisdom.
Personal Commentary: While it may not always be easy to obey our parents’ advice, this verse reminds me of the wisdom and guidance they can offer. Seeking their input and considering their opinions when it comes to relationships can help us make informed decisions that align with God’s will. It is a reminder to value the guidance of our parents, who desire what is best for us.
Proverbs 13:20
“Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.”
This verse highlights the influence of those we choose to surround ourselves with. It warns us of the dangers of being in relationships with people who do not share our faith or align with godly values.
Personal Commentary: This verse serves as a reminder to be discerning when choosing our romantic partners. The people we surround ourselves with have a significant impact on our thoughts, actions, and ultimately our relationship with God. It encourages me to seek out relationships that will inspire and challenge me to grow spiritually rather than hinder my walk with Christ.
1 Corinthians 7:2
“But since sexual immorality is occurring, each man should have sexual relations with his own wife, and each woman with her own husband.”
This verse emphasizes that sexual relations should be reserved for marriage. It reminds us of the importance of purity and chastity within a relationship.
Personal Commentary: In a world where sexual immorality is prevalent, this verse serves as a timeless reminder of the importance of honoring God’s design for sex within the context of marriage. It challenges me to seek a relationship that prioritizes purity and respects the biblical boundaries set for intimacy.
Galatians 6:2
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.”
This verse encourages us to support and help one another through the challenges of life. In the context of relationships, it highlights the importance of being with a partner who will walk alongside us during both joyful and difficult times.
Personal Commentary: This verse reminds me of the significance of finding a partner who will be there for me through life’s ups and downs. The mutual support and care within a Christ-centered relationship are vital for the overall growth and strength of the partnership. It has taught me the beauty of shared burdens and the power of love in supporting one another.
1 Corinthians 10:31
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
This verse reminds us to live our lives in a way that brings glory to God. In the context of dating, it encourages us to approach relationships with an intention to honor and glorify God in all aspects.
Personal Commentary: This verse has significantly impacted my approach to dating and relationships. It reminds me that my choices and actions should reflect God’s values and bring Him glory. It encourages me to seek a relationship that will ultimately honor and reflect God’s love to those around us.
1 Corinthians 2:9
“However, as it is written: “What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived”—the things God has prepared for those who love him.”
This verse speaks to the future blessings and rewards that await those who love God. It reminds us that, in our relationships, we should strive for a partnership that aligns with God’s plans and purposes.
Personal Commentary: This verse fills me with anticipation and hope for the future. It encourages me to place my trust in God’s plans, especially when it comes to romantic relationships. It reminds me that God’s blessings far surpass anything I could imagine or conceive, and I should seek a relationship that aligns with His perfect will for my life.
Proverbs 19:14
“Houses and wealth are inherited from parents, but a prudent wife is from the Lord.”
This verse highlights the significance of finding a prudent wife, a woman with wisdom and discernment, as a gift from the Lord.
Personal Commentary: As a man seeking a future spouse, this verse reminds me of the value of a prudent wife. It emphasizes the importance of seeking a partner who possesses wisdom and discernment, qualities that can greatly contribute to a successful and God-centered marriage. It encourages me to value a woman who seeks the Lord’s guidance in her life.
Matthew 19:6
“So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.”
This verse emphasizes the sacredness and permanence of marriage. It reminds us of the importance of cherishing and upholding the marriage covenant.
Personal Commentary: This verse holds great significance in my understanding of marriage. It reminds me of the commitment and responsibility that comes with entering into a marriage covenant. It encourages me to approach relationships with the intention of building a lifelong and unbreakable bond, with God at the center.
Genesis 2:24
“That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh.”
This verse speaks to the unity and oneness that is formed within a marital relationship. It reminds us of the special bond that is created when two individuals come together in marriage.
Personal Commentary: This verse serves as a reminder of the sacred nature of marriage. It encourages me to seek a partner with whom I can journey through life, united both spiritually and emotionally. The concept of becoming one flesh highlights the depth of intimacy and connection that can be experienced within a Christ-centered marriage.
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.”
This well-known passage provides a comprehensive description of love. It guides us in understanding the qualities and characteristics that should be present in our relationships.