Previously I devoted an entire article to the importance of teaching children to surround themselves with godly friends. This article stems from that foundation: Christian parents must teach their children the importance of dating Christians. If children understand the importance of surrounding themselves with godly friends, it will make it easier for children to understand the importance of dating Christians.
Many children struggle with the concept that it really is important to choose who you date wisely. In fact, for most children, especially teens, their criteria for who they date are based solely on superficial characteristics. I think many have the idea that it really does not matter who they date when they are fifteen, sixteen, seventeen-years-old. They never see the far-reaching consequences (good or bad) regarding their choice when it comes to dating.
Children must be taught that they will marry someone who they date. It seems like a very simple statement, yet it seems like there are many teens that are out dating for simply a “good-time” not realizing how easy it is to become truly involved with someone. That guy who ruled the parties in high school may not turn out to be the best husband in the long run. Teens rarely realize that who they date in high school could truly become their spouse. I know from experience: I married the guy (or as my husband pointed out – one of the guys) I dated when I was sixteen. It does happen!
It is extremely important for all dating Christians, young or old, to have an inherent desire to date and marry someone who will help them in their walk with God, not hinder it. I have heard of many situations in which the Christian entering into a marriage with a non-Christian thinks they can “change” the non-Christian. Too many times the Christian is weakened instead. (There are exceptions to this – but they are exceptions.) Children must be taught from a young age that it is important, eternally important, to choose who they date wisely.
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- Five Lessons Christian Parents Must Teach Their Children
- Five More Lessons Christian Parents Must Teach Their Children
- Christian Parents Must Teach Their Children About the Bible