Dating is not just about taking cute pictures together or having someone to text every night. It’s about partnership, and partnership thrives on consideration. If you’re not considerate of someone’s feelings, their pain, fears, or even the things that frustrate them, you’re not ready for a healthy relationship. Why? Because love is not self-centered. Galatians 5:13 says, “Serve one another humbly in love.” Relationships break down when one person only thinks about themselves.
Selfishness is dangerous because it hides behind excuses like “that’s just who I am” or “they’ll understand.” But the truth is, love does not seek its own way. 1 Corinthians 13:5 reminds us, “Love… is not self-seeking.” If your first reaction in a disagreement is always about how you feel, what you want, or what you deserve, then you’re not loving the way God intended. A healthy relationship means sometimes putting their needs above your convenience.
Being considerate doesn’t mean you will always agree. It means you care enough to listen and respond with understanding. Matthew 7:12 gives us a simple principle: “Do to others what you would have them do to you.” Before you dismiss their feelings or fears, ask yourself, “If I were in their shoes, how would I want to be treated?” That question alone can save a relationship from unnecessary pain.
If you realize that being considerate is hard for you, don’t ignore it. It might mean there’s a deeper issue—selfishness. And selfishness isn’t just a bad habit; it’s a heart issue. Ezekiel 36:26 says, “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you.” God wants to help you replace that hard, self-focused heart with one full of love and compassion. That’s how you become ready for a healthy, godly relationship.
So, before you say “yes” to dating someone, say “yes” to letting God work on you. Pray: “Lord, teach me to be kind, patient, and considerate.” The Holy Spirit can shape you into someone who loves like Christ—because dating isn’t about finding someone perfect; it’s about becoming the right person too. Galatians 5:22 reminds us that love is a fruit of the Spirit. So, let God grow it in you before you try to share it with someone else.
Prince Victor Matthew
Hope Expression Values You
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