Feb 24 2025 7 mins 1
Knowing the top red flags in a Christian dating relationship is important, The problem is that many Christian singles ignore the silent red flags in a relationship and so stay longer than they should have. The top three reasons daters give for overstaying a romantic or dating relationship are as follows:
* Fear of being alone
* Fear and/or guilt over what the other person will feel or do
* Fear of exchanging the familiar for the unknown
Let’s face it, dating relationships can be a challenging endeavor. As Christians, we are called to approach dating with intentionality, prayer, and discernment. While everyone’s dating experience is unique, there are certain ‘red flags’ to be aware of that may indicate an unhealthy or potentially harmful relationship. Recognizing these early on can save us a ton of heartache and regret later on.
Red flags in a Christian Dating relationship
Here are some significant Christian dating red flags to be aware of:
Christian Dating Relationship Red Flag # 1
* Is he or she helping you get closer to Jesus, or causing you to sin and fall away? Have you fallen into sexual sin and/or lost your passion for Christ and His word?2 Corinthians 6:14 reminds us, “Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common?” If your partner does not share your faith or shows disdain for your Christian beliefs, this can lead to significant challenges. A shared faith provides a foundation of mutual values and goals.
Christian Dating Relationship Red Flag # 2
*
Does your dating partner show lack of respect by verbally and/or physically abusing you? Respect is fundamental in any relationship. If your partner belittles your beliefs, mocks your choices, or tries to change fundamental aspects of who you are, it’s a clear sign of a lack of respect You may in fact be in an abusive relationship and not know it.
Proverbs 29:11 says, “Fools give full vent to their rage, but the wise bring calm in the end.” Occasional disagreements are natural, but if they’re frequently accompanied by explosive anger, aggressive behavior, or any form of abuse, it’s a serious red flag. Such behaviors can escalate, and it’s essential to prioritize your safety.
An abusive relationship works in a cycle like this: The abuser commits the act, but then apologizes profusely. The other dating single forgives the incident, and the dating relationship continues. Unfortunately, the abuse cycle repeats itself over and over again.
Christian Dating Relationship Red Flag # 3
* Have you caught your dating interest lying about insignificant details? Remember, if your date finds it easy to lie about “little things”, he or she will certainly do so about the biggies. Proverbs 12:22 reads, “The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in those who tell the truth.” Secrecy, especially about past relationships or current friendships, is concerning. Honesty is a cornerstone of trust, and without it, it’s challenging to build a solid relationship.
* Fear of being alone
* Fear and/or guilt over what the other person will feel or do
* Fear of exchanging the familiar for the unknown
Let’s face it, dating relationships can be a challenging endeavor. As Christians, we are called to approach dating with intentionality, prayer, and discernment. While everyone’s dating experience is unique, there are certain ‘red flags’ to be aware of that may indicate an unhealthy or potentially harmful relationship. Recognizing these early on can save us a ton of heartache and regret later on.
Red flags in a Christian Dating relationship
Here are some significant Christian dating red flags to be aware of:
Christian Dating Relationship Red Flag # 1
* Is he or she helping you get closer to Jesus, or causing you to sin and fall away? Have you fallen into sexual sin and/or lost your passion for Christ and His word?2 Corinthians 6:14 reminds us, “Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common?” If your partner does not share your faith or shows disdain for your Christian beliefs, this can lead to significant challenges. A shared faith provides a foundation of mutual values and goals.
Christian Dating Relationship Red Flag # 2
*
Does your dating partner show lack of respect by verbally and/or physically abusing you? Respect is fundamental in any relationship. If your partner belittles your beliefs, mocks your choices, or tries to change fundamental aspects of who you are, it’s a clear sign of a lack of respect You may in fact be in an abusive relationship and not know it.
Proverbs 29:11 says, “Fools give full vent to their rage, but the wise bring calm in the end.” Occasional disagreements are natural, but if they’re frequently accompanied by explosive anger, aggressive behavior, or any form of abuse, it’s a serious red flag. Such behaviors can escalate, and it’s essential to prioritize your safety.
An abusive relationship works in a cycle like this: The abuser commits the act, but then apologizes profusely. The other dating single forgives the incident, and the dating relationship continues. Unfortunately, the abuse cycle repeats itself over and over again.
Christian Dating Relationship Red Flag # 3
* Have you caught your dating interest lying about insignificant details? Remember, if your date finds it easy to lie about “little things”, he or she will certainly do so about the biggies. Proverbs 12:22 reads, “The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in those who tell the truth.” Secrecy, especially about past relationships or current friendships, is concerning. Honesty is a cornerstone of trust, and without it, it’s challenging to build a solid relationship.
