Thinking about marriage can feel a little overwhelming, right? On the one hand, you’re excited about the idea of finding your person, someone to binge-watch sermons with and share late-night heart-to-hearts about God’s purpose. On the other, you’re wondering: Am I really ready for this whole ‘till death do us part’ thing?
Spoiler alert: Marriage prep is less about color schemes and cake tastings and way more about becoming the person God’s calling you to be. So, let’s talk about what it really means to prepare for marriage as a Christian single.
Step 1: Get Your Spiritual House in Order
If you want a Christ-centered marriage, it starts with you and God, period. Marriage doesn’t magically fix your faith journey—it amplifies where you already are.
Start by asking yourself: How’s my relationship with Jesus?
Are you carving out time for prayer and Bible study?
Do you feel grounded in your identity as a child of God?
Are you actively serving in your church or community?
Proverbs 24:3 reminds us, “By wisdom a house is built, and through understanding it is established.” Building your spiritual house now creates a solid foundation for the future. Because when the honeymoon glow fades and real life hits (it will), that foundation will be what sustains you.
Step 2: Understand God’s Purpose for Marriage
Marriage isn’t just about being in love—it’s about glorifying God together. Ephesians 5:31-32 talks about how marriage reflects the relationship between Christ and the Church. That’s a pretty big deal!
So, before you walk down the aisle, take time to wrestle with questions like:
Why do I want to get married?
How can I honor God as a spouse?
What does “sacrificial love” really look like in day-to-day life?
Having clarity about God’s purpose for marriage will help you navigate everything from choosing a partner to tackling those inevitable “what’s for dinner” debates.
Step 3: Work on You
Let’s keep it real: No one is bringing 100% perfection into marriage. We’re all a little messy (and that’s okay). But this is the perfect time to start working on your emotional health and self-awareness.
Learn to communicate: Can you express your feelings without bottling them up or exploding like a shaken soda can?
Handle conflict gracefully: Marriage isn’t about if conflicts happen; it’s about how you deal with them.
Cultivate independence: Being financially responsible and emotionally stable now sets the stage for a healthier partnership later.
And hey, don’t shy away from counseling. Whether it’s premarital counseling or just a “let’s talk through my baggage” session, it’s wisdom, not weakness.
Step 4: Build Healthy Friendships and Mentorships
If marriage is the destination, your community is the road map. Surrounding yourself with godly friends and mentors can make a world of difference.
Here’s why:
Friends keep you accountable and grounded.
Mentors share wisdom from their own marriage journey.
Your faith community helps you grow spiritually and emotionally.
Plus, being involved in community activities is a great way to meet potential partners. Just saying.
Step 5: Practice Healthy Dating Habits
If you’re currently dating—or planning to—it’s important to start practicing the kind of habits that will carry into marriage.
Communication is key: Talk about faith, goals, and those non-negotiables early.
Mutual respect matters: Learn to honor each other’s boundaries and celebrate each other’s strengths.
Date with purpose: If you’re serious about marriage, don’t just date to pass the time. Keep the end goal in mind.
And remember, red flags don’t turn green with time. If something feels off, take it to God in prayer and seek wise counsel.
Step 6: Pray (A Lot)
This might sound like a given, but seriously—pray about everything. Ask God to prepare your heart, guide your steps, and reveal His will for your life.
Philippians 4:6 reminds us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” Translation? God’s got this.
Quick Tips for Christian Singles Preparing for Marriage
Be patient: God’s timing > your timeline.
Stay rooted in Scripture: Let His Word guide your decisions.
Enjoy the journey: Singleness isn’t a waiting room—it’s a season for growth, adventure, and discovery.
The Bottom Line
Marriage is an incredible gift, but it’s also a big responsibility. Preparing for it means focusing on spiritual growth, emotional health, and healthy relationships now, so you can step into this new chapter with confidence and purpose.
So, whether you’re actively dating, single as a Pringle, or somewhere in between, remember this: God is shaping your story in ways you can’t even imagine. Trust Him with the process—and enjoy the ride.
Who knows? Your Christ-centered love story might just be closer than you think.
Finding Joy in the Journey: Navigating Dating as a Christian Single
Let’s face it—dating can feel like a maze sometimes, right? And if you’re navigating it as a Christian, there’s the added layer of staying true to your faith and joy, while swiping, mingling, or meeting “through a friend of a friend.” But here’s the good news: dating as a Christian single isn’t just about finding the one. It’s about discovering who you are, growing in your relationship with God, and (yes) even enjoying the ride.
So, grab your favorite coffee (or tea—no judgment here), and let’s talk about how to find joy in the dating journey while keeping Christ at the center.
1. Dating with Purpose: More Than Just a Relationship Status
Ever felt like dating is just a race to find a partner? Trust me, I get it. But here’s a perspective shift: dating as a Christian is about more than just pairing up. It’s a chance to grow—emotionally, spiritually, and maybe even socially (yes, awkward dates count as life experiences).
Start viewing each date as an opportunity to reflect on who God is shaping you to be. Instead of stressing over compatibility, ask yourself: What can I learn from this person? How can I reflect Christ in this interaction?
Think of Proverbs 27:17: “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” Whether or not the relationship works out, every encounter can help refine you.
2. Faith: Your Compass in the Dating World
Let’s be real—faith isn’t just a checkbox on your dating profile. It’s your foundation. When you’re rooted in Christ, it becomes easier to identify red flags (or green ones) and to prioritize what truly matters.
What to Look For:
Someone who shares your values and beliefs. It’s not about being clones of each other but sharing a faith that can ground your relationship.
A partner who encourages you to grow closer to God, not drift away.
1 Corinthians 13:4-7 is your cheat sheet here: love that’s patient, kind, and rooted in truth is the goal. If someone is leading you away from these principles, it’s worth reconsidering.
And don’t forget to pray. Pray for clarity, discernment, and patience (even when your mom starts dropping not-so-subtle hints about grandkids).
3. Enjoying the Process Without Losing Your Sanity
Okay, confession time: how many of us have spiraled into overthinking after a first date? (Guilty!) But here’s the thing—dating doesn’t have to be this high-pressure, anxiety-inducing ordeal.
Instead of obsessing over the future, lean into the present. Let dating be a journey of discovery:
Discovering what you value in a partner.
Discovering how to communicate (even when it’s uncomfortable).
Discovering what God might be teaching you through those experiences.
Matthew 6:34 reminds us: “Do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself.” Focus on the here and now, trusting that God’s timing is always better than our own.
4. When It Feels Like Everyone Else is Married (Except You)
Ah, the dreaded wedding season. Suddenly, everyone you know is posting engagement photos while you’re debating whether to bring a plus-one or just show up solo again.
First, know this: you’re not alone. Seriously. So many Christian singles feel this pressure, but God’s plan for you isn’t on the same timeline as your best friend’s or that couple from your small group.
Take this season to invest in yourself:
Deepen your relationship with Christ.
Pursue hobbies or passions you’ve always wanted to explore.
Build strong friendships that remind you you’re loved and valued, no matter your relationship status.
Psalm 37:4 says, “Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart.” Your story is unique, and God hasn’t forgotten you.
5. The Bottom Line: Joy is in the Journey
Here’s the thing: dating as a Christian single doesn’t have to feel like a chore or a test. When you approach it with faith, purpose, and a little bit of humor, it can actually be… fun.
Remember, the goal isn’t just to find a spouse; it’s to grow closer to God and discover the person He’s calling you to be. Whether you’re single, dating, or somewhere in between, you’re already on a meaningful journey.
And who knows? Maybe that next coffee date—or Bible study meet-cute—might just surprise you.
So, how are you feeling about dating these days? Let’s chat in the comments—what’s one lesson God’s been teaching you through this season?
If you are single, gather here. There’s nothing like a family gathering to remind you just how many people have an opinion about your love life. Whether it’s Aunt Carol asking when you’ll “settle down” or Instagram friends flashing shiny engagement rings, the pressure to marry can feel… a lot.
But here’s the deal: life isn’t a one-size-fits-all timeline. Let’s talk about how to handle this pressure like the confident, faith-filled person you are—without losing your peace or your sense of humor.
Why Is Everyone So Obsessed with Marriage?
Society has a knack for making us feel like marriage is a box we need to check ASAP. From movies to social media to well-meaning relatives, it’s like there’s this unspoken rule that being single equals “not there yet.” Spoiler: it doesn’t.
Remember Romans 12:2? “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Translation: you don’t have to follow society’s script.
Your worth isn’t tied to your relationship status. Period.
Embrace Your Own Timeline
Here’s the truth: everyone’s journey is different. Some of your friends might be all about that wedding-planning life right now, and that’s great for them. But if you’re focusing on your career, deepening your faith, or just enjoying the single life, that’s great too.
God’s timing is perfect—even when it doesn’t match up with what others expect. Ecclesiastes 3:1 reminds us, “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.”
So if your current season isn’t about marriage, embrace it! Use this time to:
Grow spiritually: Dive deeper into your faith and strengthen your relationship with God.
Pursue your passions: Explore your career, hobbies, or ministry work.
Build community: Surround yourself with friends who uplift and inspire you.
Have Those (Sometimes Awkward) Conversations
Let’s talk about the pressure coming from the people who love you the most. Whether it’s your parents, grandparents, or besties dropping not-so-subtle hints, their words can sting—even if they mean well.
How do you handle it? Start with honesty.
Be real about your feelings: Say something like, “I know marriage is important to you, but right now, I’m focusing on other areas of my life.”
Redirect the convo: “I’m excited about marriage one day, but I’m also excited about the things God is doing in my life right now.”
Set boundaries: If the pressure gets too intense, it’s okay to say, “I’d rather not discuss this right now.”
Proverbs 15:1 offers some wisdom here: “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” Approach the convo with kindness, and you’ll likely create more understanding.
It’s Okay to Want More
Choosing to wait—or deciding marriage isn’t for you—doesn’t mean you’re missing out. It means you’re living with intention. When you focus on what God’s calling you to do, rather than what others expect, you’re stepping into your purpose.
And hey, if you are dating or dreaming about marriage, take your time! Build a foundation based on shared faith and values. Trust God to guide your heart and your relationship.
Real Talk: You’re Right Where You’re Meant to Be
Navigating the pressure to marry can be tough, but remember, your path is your own. God’s plan for your life is unique, and it’s okay if it doesn’t look like anyone else’s.
Keep your eyes on what truly matters: growing in faith, loving others, and living authentically. When marriage is a part of your story—or even if it’s not—it’ll happen in the right way, at the right time.
So take a deep breath, give yourself some grace, and share this blog post.
Money stress—ugh, right? It’s that unwelcome guest that somehow sneaks into relationships no matter how much we lock the doors. Maybe it’s a surprise bill, losing a job, or realizing that one of you is a spender while the other is more of a saver. Whatever the cause, financial stress can feel overwhelming. But here’s the good news: with a little teamwork, some faith, and a solid game plan, you and your partner can handle this together like the power couple God designed you to be.
Let’s dive into some real, relatable tips to deal with financial stress as a couple (without losing your peace or your sense of humor).
Start with Open, Honest Talks (Yes, Even the Awkward Ones)
The foundation of tackling financial stress is communication. And I’m not talking about vague “we need to save more” statements. I mean sit down, grab some coffee (or tea if that’s your thing), and have a real heart-to-heart about your finances.
Share everything: What’s your income? What are the bills? How much debt is hiding in the shadows?
Dream together: What are your goals—buying a house, traveling, paying off student loans, or just being able to eat out without checking the bank app first?
Keep it judgment-free: If one of you has a history of overspending or anxiety about money, approach it with grace. Romans 12:10 reminds us to “Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.”
Money talks can be intimidating, but trust me, they’re worth it. Think of it like ripping off a Band-Aid—once you’ve had the conversation, you’ll feel lighter.
Make a Money Game Plan
Once the cards are on the table, it’s time to build a plan together. Budgeting might not sound exciting, but it’s empowering—seriously. Here’s how to make it work:
1. Budget
List your essential expenses (hello, rent, groceries, and car payments).
Add in fun money (yes, you need this too—it’s all about balance).
Track everything so you know where your money’s actually going.
2. Set Shared Goals
Whether it’s saving for a vacation or paying down credit card debt, working towards a goal as a team creates unity. Proverbs 21:5 has some wisdom here: “The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty.” Translation: plan well, and good things follow.
3. Be Flexible
Life happens, and plans will need adjusting. The unexpected is a part of life, but don’t let it derail you. Check in on your plan monthly and tweak it as needed.
Divide and Conquer
Finances are a team sport, and every good team needs roles. Maybe one of you is better at crunching numbers, while the other is great at keeping track of spending. Play to your strengths!
If one person handles everything, it can lead to resentment or burnout. Share the load so you’re both invested in the process.
Keep God at the Center
Here’s a truth bomb: finances are as much a spiritual issue as they are a practical one. Trusting God with your money doesn’t mean ignoring budgets, but it does mean recognizing that He’s the ultimate provider.
Pray together about your finances. Ask for wisdom (James 1:5) and for peace when the stress feels overwhelming (Philippians 4:6-7).
Practice generosity, even when it feels hard. Giving—even just a little—can shift your perspective from scarcity to gratitude.
Real Talk: You’ve Got This
Financial stress is tough, but it doesn’t have to break you. If anything, it can strengthen your relationship when you tackle it together. Remember, your worth as a couple isn’t tied to your bank account—it’s rooted in your faith, your love, and the commitment you’ve made to one another.
So, the next time financial stress rears its ugly head, take a deep breath, lean on each other, and remember that God’s got your back. You’re in this together, and with His guidance (and a solid budget), you’ll come out stronger on the other side.
Now go grab that coffee, schedule the money talk, and get to planning—you’ve got this!
Let’s Talk Intentional Dating Hey there! If you’ve ever caught yourself wondering, “What am I even doing with my dating life?”, you’re not alone. Having a date these days can feel like navigating a maze blindfolded. But here’s the tea: it doesn’t have to be that way. Intentional dating is your cheat code.
So, what does “dating with intent” actually mean? It’s not just about swiping right and hoping for the best. It’s about knowing why you’re dating. Whether you’re seeking a life partner or just trying to grow emotionally and spiritually, having a clear purpose is a game-changer.
As Proverbs 29:18 says, “Where there is no vision, the people perish.” Translation? Without a clear plan, your relationships can feel aimless.
Why Intentional Dating Matters
Let’s be real—your time and emotional energy are precious. Why waste them on connections that leave you feeling more confused than inspired? Here’s why intentional dating is a must:
Clarity = Confidence Knowing your goals means you can date with boldness. No more guessing games or settling for “meh” situationships.
It Honors God and Yourself When you date with purpose, you’re aligning your actions with your values. It’s about glorifying God in how you love others and yourself.
It Saves You from Unnecessary Drama No more “What are we?” convos every three months. Intentionality brings peace (and trust me, peace > chaos every time).
The SMART Way to Set Relationship Goals
Okay, so now you’re hyped about intentional dating. But how do you actually do it? Enter SMART goals:
Specific: Instead of saying, “I want to date someone nice,” try, “I want to meet someone who shares my faith and long-term goals.”
Measurable: Track progress. Are you building trust? Growing together spiritually?
Achievable: Keep it realistic. “Marrying in three weeks” might be a stretch, fam.
Relevant: Make sure your goals align with your life stage and values.
Time-bound: Set a timeline. “I’d like to know where this relationship is headed in six months.”
Overcoming Common Challenges
Intentional dating isn’t all sunshine and roses. It can get messy. Here’s how to navigate common hurdles:
1. Mismatch in Goals
Ever vibe with someone, only to find out they’re just looking for “something casual”? Ouch. The key here is honest communication—early and often.
Ask questions like, “What’s your vision for a relationship?” during the first few dates. It saves you from investing in something misaligned.
2. Fear of Rejection
Being upfront about your goals can feel intimidating. But remember, rejection isn’t personal—it’s redirection. God’s got someone better for you (Jeremiah 29:11 vibes).
3. Waiting on God’s Timing
Intentional dating can sometimes feel like you’re stuck in a “season of waiting.” But use this time to grow—emotionally, spiritually, and even socially. Go to that Bible study, try a new hobby, or travel with friends.
Let’s Get Practical: Tips for Intentional Dating
Here’s a quick list to make dating with intent feel less like a lecture and more like a lifestyle:
Start with Prayer: Lay your dating life before God. Ask for wisdom, discernment, and patience.
Know Your Non-Negotiables: These are the big things—faith, family values, future plans. Don’t compromise.
Have Fun: Yep, intentional dating can still be exciting. Plan creative dates (think coffee and hiking, not just Netflix and chill).
Check In Regularly: Reflect on your relationship’s progress. Is it helping you grow or draining your energy?
Final Thoughts
Dating with intent isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being purposeful. It’s okay to stumble along the way; just keep your eyes on the ultimate goal: a relationship that glorifies God and brings out the best in both of you.
And hey, remember Ecclesiastes 3:1: “To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven.” Your season of intentional dating is part of God’s bigger story for you.
So, are you ready to date with purpose? Let’s chat in the comments—what are your relationship goals, and how can we support each other on this journey?
