Divine Dating

I had no idea at the age of seventeen that as I signed a form, committing to keep myself sexually pure until marriage, ten years later I would still be waiting. The ring my best friend and I purchased to commemorate the event has been long lost, yet the commitment remains the same. Had I known the process I would endure, I may have considered ripping the form rather than signing the dotted line! Yet the Lord has graciously chosen to reveal our futures simply one day at a time.

As an adult my commitment has grown from keeping my promise to a piece of paper, to keeping a commandment of my Lord. Honoring Him is my greatest joy. Our lives and decisions reflect our relationship with God and I want mine to scream, “I love Him!”

I enjoy the first date jitters: the nervous butterflies which do not allow me to eat, rummaging through my closet to find the “perfect” outfit, discovering one another through first conversations. I do not even mind the occasional “awkward” silent moments! However, I have discovered this excitement pales when compared to my relationship with the Lord. Spending time alone with God can bring all of the traditional dating “butterflies” and so much more! As Christians, ultimate “true love” does not have to wait! Unlike human relationships, which carry the potential for failure and disappointment, God promises an eternal commitment to love and cherish us!

I can begin now enjoying the relationship I have as His beloved. If I am to marry, my wedding day will not be the first time I have been called a bride. “I delight greatly in the Lord; my soul rejoices in my God. For He has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom adorns his head like a priest, and as a bride adorns herself with jewels.” (Isaiah 61:10, NIV)

Through faith in Jesus Christ, we are given the honor of being known as the “bride of Christ.” Along with this title comes an assurance that we are forever loved. God alone can meet and satisfy our deepest longings for acceptance, love, romance and security. Once His child, we are forever engraved upon His hand! (Isaiah 49:16)

Through the years, I have discovered a few ways to encourage growth in my relationship with God.

1. Make Dates with God:
   Several years ago while preparing for a mission trip; I noticed people making last minute plans to meet up with those whom they would miss over the next few weeks. Quickly scanning my mind in order to make my own list, I was struck with the reality that I would not be leaving God behind. Yes, all other would have to stay, but He would travel with me across the miles. I became grateful for His enduring presence. Yet, I am often inadequate in my thanks. Therefore I decided to make a “date” with God. I set aside the Friday night before we left to meet with Him solely for the purpose of expressing thanks. It is amazing how once you plan a time; so many other things in life will attempt to substitute that space! I had to turn down several “good” offers in order to pursue what was best: spending time alone with God. Throughout the years, I have enjoyed setting aside special days to make a “date” with God. They are moments when I can run away and enjoy the presence of my Father in unique ways.
2. Pursue His Promises:
   The hopeless romantic in me has always appreciated love notes. I even have a few saved from my third grade boyfriend! Words are wonderful tools to express our emotions. Although authors throughout history have used them to touch our hearts, God alone uses them to reach our souls. Scripture is rich with verses expressing God’s divine love towards mankind.
   Placing scripture throughout my room or other places I frequently visit helps me to constantly focus on the Lord. So many things fight for our attention: television, friends, work and activities. In order for God to stay at the forefront of our minds, we must be intentional in keeping Him there. The visual reminders encourage me to meditate on His promises. They also enable me to memorize His word. Hiding God’s word in your heart is a sure way to have Him on your mind as you go throughout the day.
3. Appreciate the Artist:
   Tulips never fail to make me smile. They have forever held a special place in my heart. As much as I get pleasure from these special gifts, I have learned to appreciate the gifts given to me daily from my Maker. Recently while flying over the Canadian Rockies, I was awe struck from the sight of the majestic snow-topped mountains seemingly reaching heavenward through the low-lying clouds. Instantaneously, I found myself praising God with a favorite worship chorus. To the relief of those around me I kept the tune rather low. Yet my heart eagerly desired to shout aloud, “My Dad made those!”
   

Learning to stop and admire that which has been carefully crafted by our Father has taught me much about His character. His diverse imagination and creativity is amazing. This master artist found pleasure in molding you and me. In return, we are given the opportunity to not only know His name, but claim Him as our Father. Despite other relationships, His commitments never disappoint, discourage or disenchant us with life. Instead, through faith in Christ, life takes on its most valuable meaning. While waiting for “Mr.” or “Mrs. Right”, do not miss the joy of divine dating.

Written by: Lorie Looney; copyright virtuousreality.com