BLOG/WHAT DOES GOD SAY ABOUT RELATIONSHIPS?

WHAT DOES GOD SAY ABOUT RELATIONSHIPS?

Discover what God says about relationships and Biblical wisdom for dating. Explore godly principles, Christian dating apps, success stories, and practical tips for godly relationships.

Relationships are an essential component of life. From friendships to marriages, they define who we are and how we approach the world. But in a world that often places convenience and self above others’ needs, a growing number ask: What does God say about relationships, and how can we approach dating in a godly way?

The Bible provides us with ageless advice for how to bring glory to God through our interactions. And through his principles—even while finding dates in the age of the app like SALT—we can find deep connections that honour the Lord. Let’s take a look through Scripture to see what it says about relationships and how to build them God’s way.

#1 GOD’S DESIGN FOR RELATIONSHIPS

The Bible is clear: God created relationships for a purpose. Genesis 2:18 says, “The Lord God said, ‘It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.’” Relationships were intended from the beginning to mirror God’s love, nurture companionship and offer encouragement.

Ephesians 5:25-28 points to God’s design for marriage: love that sacrifices on behalf of the other, just as Christ does for the church. This principle applies to every relationship, including dating. Whether you’re in a relationship or getting to know each other as friends, the commitment should be to glorify God and to mirror His love to people around you.

#2 DATING WITH PURPOSE: WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

Is dating biblical? While the Bible does not talk about dating specifically, it offers guidelines on how to engage in romantic relationships. For example:

• Honor God Above All: Matthew 6:33 states “Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” God has to be on the throne and the priority above all relationships.
• Guard Your Heart: Proverbs 4:23 says, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” Be deliberate about who you pour your emotional energy into.
• Pursue Purity: 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5 challenges you from continuing in sexual immorality and using others to satisfy your needs.

Purposeful dating is dating that glorifies God and fulfils His design for your life. It’s not about being perfect but growing together in faith and love.

#3 NAVIGATING DATING AS A CHRISTIAN IN 2025

This generation uses dating apps as a common way to meet new people. But how can Christians use them in a way that aligns with their faith? Apps like SALT, a Christian dating platform, aim to create intentional, faith-based connections. Here are some tips for navigating these dating apps as a believer:

• Set Clear Boundaries: Be upfront about your faith and values in your profile. Share your desire for a godly relationship.
• Pray for Discernment: Before swiping, pray for wisdom to recognize potential partners who align with your faith.
• Focus on Character: Look beyond physical attraction and prioritize traits like kindness, integrity, and a love for God.

Many Christians have found meaningful relationships through dating apps. For instance, Samuel and Thati met on SALT and quickly bonded over their shared faith. He flew to Brazil from the UK to meet her and then she visited him and his family in the UK after. They navigated long-distance dating through prayer and intentional conversations for their Christ-centred relationship, which eventually led to a beautiful marriage.

#4 BUILDING GODLY RELATIONSHIPS: BIBLICAL PRINCIPLES TO FOLLOW

To what extent do you nurture and spend time with the people you want close to you? Whether or not you’re dating (or strengthening friendships), the Bible offers timeless wisdom and tips for developing healthy, God-honouring, relationships:

1 Love Sacrificially: “Love one another as I have loved you” (John 15:12). And genuine love is sacrificial, wanting what’s best for others.
2 Be Honest with One Another: “Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbour” (Ephesians 4:25). Honesty creates trust and intimacy.
3 Practice Forgiveness: “Bear with each other and forgive one another” (Colossians 3:13). No relationship is without imperfection, but forgiveness is a reflection of God’s grace.
4 Promote Spiritual Growth: “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another” (Proverbs 27:17). Encourage each other to better their faith and their character.

#5 CHALLENGES IN RELATIONSHIPS: TRUSTING GOD THROUGH DIFFICULTIES

Every relationship goes through rough patches, including those that are godly. Be it conflict, unmet expectations, or waiting for the right person, it is especially important to put your trust in God through the process. Romans 8:28 comforts us: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

Take, for example, Marion, who felt stuck in her 30s as a single Mum. She had used dating apps but was often discouraged. And through prayer and support from others she found peace in God’s timing. Finally, she met her husband through a series of unexpected events, and they are now partnered in ministry together. God’s plans are always worth waiting for.

#6 RED FLAGS TO WATCH FOR IN RELATIONSHIPS

As you seek godly relationships, be mindful of the signs that all may not be quite right:

• Breach of Boundaries or Controlling Behaviour — 1 Corinthians 13:4-5 — Love is patient; love is kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude.
• Unequal Yoking — 2 Corinthians 6:14 warns against being unequally yoked with unbelievers. Your relationship should be founded on faith.
• Lack of Accountability: Proverbs 11:14 emphasizes the value of wise counsel. Relationships work when both people are accountable to God and each other.

Spotting these red flags early on will help you avoid heartbreak and pursue relationships in God’s will.

#7 PRACTICAL TIPS FOR DATING IN A GODLY WAY IN 2025

Dating today takes intentionality and wisdom. These are some practical steps for pursuing a God-honouring relationship:

1 Pray for Guidance — Seek God’s wisdom before entering any relationship. James 1:5 promises: “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault.”
2 Build Community You Trust: Enlist family and friends that share your vision to help and support you in the process.
3 Date with Intention: State your intentions and level of interest clearly from day 1. Be clear and respectful of one another’s time and feelings.
4 Have Boundaries: Set up physical, emotional, and spiritual boundaries that allow you to protect your purity and bless God with your relationship.
5 Keep Christ at the Center: Pray together often, go to church, find leadership to be accountable to and support each other’s spiritual growth.
6 Grow together: Read what the Bible says on relationships and always be open to learning how to love better. GOD TV has some great revelation on relationships, taught by some of the best. Grab your significant other and watch some edifying and God magnifying content to enrich your relationship now.

#8 GOD’S ULTIMATE PURPOSE FOR RELATIONSHIPS

Relationships aren’t just about having someone to go places with, they’re about bringing glory to God. Ephesians 2:10 reminds us: “For we are God’s handywork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”

If you’re single, dating, or married, knowing your worth is about knowing who you are in Christ, not your relationship status. When you honour God in your relationships, you show His love to the world, and you walk in His purpose for your life.

CONCLUSION TRUSTING GOD WITH YOUR RELATIONSHIPS

What does God say about relationships? He asks us to love wholeheartedly, pursue holiness, and believe Him in all seasons. Whether you’re traveling through dating apps or constructing a marriage, His Word has the wisdom and instruction for the best and most meaningful relationship possible.

When searching for godly relationships, always keep in mind that His timing and plans are perfect. Don’t forget to trust Him, to pray for His guidance and let His love be the base of every connection you form. By doing so you’ll find relationships that honour God and lead to lasting joy.

Find more inspiration on Godly relationships on GOD TV here.