It is the cultural norm that when a couple begins to date, they will start by going to coffee, dinner, or some other noncommittal event with the other party to get to know that person better. What usually transpires is that both people begin to spend one-on-one time with each other, asking surface level questions and enjoying one another’s company. As time goes by, the couple may or may not begin to ask deeper questions concerning things like faith or cultural beliefs, that is…if there is still a mutual attraction.

With many who do not believe in Christ (and unfortunately a handful that do) we find that once enough dates have been ‘completed,’ physical touch becomes a prominent part of the relationship, generally depending upon how the couple feels. This often times leads to more and more physical contact and possible sexual intimacy.

In born-again Christian circles, Dating tends to end just as poorly. Although both the man and woman may ‘save’ themselves and never technically sleep together, hearts tend to be hurt easily since excessive physical touch was never considered harmful.

Even if sex never enters the picture, other physical contact like kissing generally does. And once kissing begins (most often when the couple is alone) it is not too difficult to move just a little further physically, creating a superfluity of emotional and/or physical damage…especially if the relationship is not exclusive or ‘just doesn’t work out.’

Not only do hearts get broken in this dating process, but life outlooks and spiritual discernment break down as well.

Check back next week for our alternative to Dating…Courting.

Catch the Wave.