Dating Advice
Is there such a thing as Christian dating online? The very thought may seem to be contrary to your biblical view of love. After all, online dating is oftentimes associated with terrible things: murder, promiscuity, predators and lying. However, such notorious incidents are the most sensational of circumstances. Most people who meet online experience a virtual relationship just as they would experience a real life relationship. They get to know a person. They draw closer. During courtship, they decide if they want to marry. Some work out, others do not.
You may think, or may have relatives who think, that no real love could ever be found online because the true nature of a person cannot be discerned just from text alone. That is a generalization, and a somewhat paranoid and close-minded perspective. Truthfully, no person can ever be "learned" from initial conversation, whether that person is online or right in front of one's face. You must get to know a person over time. As far as online Christian dating is concerned, it might help you to talk to your love interest on the phone and to see him or her on a web camera (they are very cheap nowadays and easily compatible with most instant messenger services).
Besides, is it really true that long distance relationships, or even relationships where the partners meet for the first time and fall instantly in love, never work out? It's definitely not true. After all, in the book of Genesis we read the story of Isaac and Rebekah. Originally, Abraham sent Eliezer his steward to find a wife for Isaac. The moment Isaac saw Rebekah's face, he fell instantly in love-and the Lord approved the marriage.
Therefore, long distance love can work out. That doesn't mean you will necessarily experience a love story of biblical proportions. In fact, in this unsafe world it is best that you remain cautious when talking to strangers online. Pay close attention to what the person is saying-what he or she talks about and what seems to be the focal point of conversation. If you find someone that you like there is nothing wrong with online Christian dating. Just be careful about sharing personal information and build a strong level of trust and Christian love between each other before even thinking about meeting in person.
As always, when it comes to Christian dating, the most important factors are that your future mate is loving, kind, respectful, and a mate that shares your Christian faith!
