Navigating the Question of When to Start Dating

Navigating the Question of When to Start Dating
Question:
We got this question that says, "What do you think is a good age to start dating, and what age do you believe we should wait to date?"
Answer:
That's an interesting question because the Bible doesn't specifically talk about an age we should start dating. It doesn't even talk about what dating should look like, so it's not a black-and-white question.
First and foremost, talk to your parents about this. The Bible tells us that we should honor our parents; father and mother. And so get their input on that.
I know each household might have some different expectations and different boundaries and guidelines on what dating should look like. And so that's the first place to go if you want to honor your parents as you go forward with possibly pursuing a relationship.
The second thing I'm thinking about is what is the purpose of dating. I want you guys to think about why you want to date. We need to sort through some of those emotions that might not be godly motivations and might actually be selfish motivations. So pray through that and examine your heart regarding why you want to date and what's the motive of your heart in that?
I don't think that there's a specific age, but I think it comes down to your walk with the Lord and your maturity in the Lord. I'm thinking of this verse in Matthew chapter 6:33 NLT, which can apply to many things in your life. It's especially important as you consider dating. Maybe there's someone in your life that you're attracted to or you like, and you want to pursue them.
I want you to memorize and think about this verse from Matthew chapter 6:33 NLT. Jesus says:
"Seek the kingdom of God above all else and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need."
Think about that. Sometimes, when we think about getting into a relationship and wanting a relationship, we think that that's the greatest need in our life and that it would help fill the void. But Jesus says that we need to seek Him first, pursue Him first, and live righteously unto Him. As we have these things in order in our lives, the promise He has for us is that after we seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, everything else will be added unto you.
This flow of priority is crucial. If you're abiding in Christ, growing in Him, and seeking Him, He's going to give you the wisdom and guide you through when and who to date. So, Matthew chapter 6:33 NLT-memorize it, live by it, and the Lord will bless you in great ways.