Let's consider these verses from the Bible.

"Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant, does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered, does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things." 1 Corinthians 13:4–7

"Watch over your heart with all diligence, for from it flow the springs of life." Proverbs 4:23

"Then the Lord God said, "It is not good for the man to be alone; I will make him a helper suitable for him." Genesis 2:18

"Let us behave properly as in the day, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual promiscuity and sensuality, not in strife and jealousy." Romans 13:13

These Bible verses are rather common; you can see them on Pinterest or as the caption of an Instagram post. As a Christian, I can't argue with them or attempt to find loopholes through which I can act opposite of the way they command me to act. These verses, like many others, are straightforward. One thing that isn't straightforward? Dating.

Many times I have seriously thought dating would be the death of me. There's so much to it! You might find a really cute guy who seems great, but in the end he winds up playing with your emotions rather than committing to an actual relationship. You might even find a guy you connect with perfectly only to realize the timing couldn't be worse for either of you so you're forced to end the relationship.

It was only two years ago that I got out of a high school relationship and entered the world of adult relationships. I was a total novice, but now I'm a seasoned pro; I even have a system for getting over breakups that involves Ben and Jerry's Half Baked ice cream, sad songs, and a girls' night out. Of course, I also utilize the strength given to me through Christ. With his love and guidance, I can see failed relationships not as personal failures but as lessons to be learned.

I try to do as Proverbs 4:23 says and watch over my heart, and I'd love to be a "helper suitable" for a deserving man one day (Genesis 2:18). Yet I'm impatient and act unbecomingly sometimes; the very opposite of what 1 Corinthians 13:4–7 says love is. I struggle with some of the very things mentioned in Romans 13:13 because I'm human and we live in a crazy world. Dating involves not only actual dates, but social media interaction and technological interaction as well. A time has come where a couple's success is judged on the number of likes they receive on Instagram instead of their mutual pursuit of God.

I have good news, though! Although God has asked us to wait patiently for his timing even when it seems to clash with our timing, he has given us hope. "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9

While navigating the crazy world of dating, keep that verse in mind. Remember, "God will be with you wherever you go." He'll be a shoulder to cry on after a rough breakup, and he will direct the right person your way when the timing is right. God knows we aren't perfect and that's why he sent his son to die for our sins. Thank goodness we have such wonderful grace and love! So as a Christian, do you're best and rely on God. And of course, remember to have fun!