Dating Without Drifting

Written By Alexander Myers

“Commit thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established.”
— Proverbs 16:3 (KJV)

Dating can be a place where time is either invested or wasted. It can be a season of growth or a cycle of distraction. Many step into relationships without asking the deeper question: Am I moving toward God’s purpose, or am I just wasting time?

The Bible calls us to be wise with our days because life is a vapor. That includes the relationships we choose to enter. Intentional dating is not about putting someone through constant tests or picking apart their flaws. It is about seeking clarity, alignment, and mutual pursuit of God’s will.

How to Date with Purpose

  1. Seek God first
    Before seeking a person, seek the Lord. Ask Him to guide your heart and your vision so that you can see beyond appearances. When you are rooted in Him, your standards are clear and your motives are pure.

  2. Value each other’s time
    Respect the other person enough to be honest early on if you see that the relationship is not aligned. Dragging out a mismatched connection often comes from fear of being alone rather than hope for the right match.

  3. Look for fruit, not perfection
    Avoid the trap of being overly critical. No one will meet every expectation. Focus on the presence of godly character, humility, and growth instead of fixating on small shortcomings.

  4. Be prayerful, not impulsive
    Let decisions flow from prayer rather than pressure. This keeps emotions from controlling the pace and direction of the relationship.

Reflection

Ask yourself today:

  • Am I dating in a way that honors God and values both our futures?

  • Do I know what I am looking for beyond surface traits?

  • Am I patient enough to let God shape the process instead of forcing it?

Prayer

Lord,
I want my relationships to reflect You. Give me wisdom to recognize what is from You and what is not. Help me to be intentional without being overly critical. Teach me to value the time and hearts You place in my path. May my dating season be filled with purpose and guided by Your Spirit. Protect my heart from impatience and distraction. Lead me toward the relationships that honor You.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Alexander Myers
Next

Temptation at the Gate of Godly Love