How to Stop Settling for Less in Dating Relationship - Part 3

As Christian youths, the idea of settling for less in a dating relationship can be tempting, especially when loneliness, societal pressure, or impatience start to creep in. However, there are crucial reasons why it’s important to stop settling for less and to wait for the relationship that God truly has for you.

One of the most important reasons is that settling for less often leads to spiritual compromise. When you choose to be in a relationship that doesn’t align with your faith or values, you may find yourself making small compromises that slowly erode your spiritual foundation. This could be as simple as dating someone who doesn’t share your commitment to Christ or who isn’t interested in growing spiritually. Over time, this can create a disconnect between you and God, as you begin to prioritize the relationship over your spiritual growth. Your relationship with God should be your highest priority, and when you settle for less, you risk putting that relationship on the back burner.

Another reason to stop settling is that God has a specific purpose for your life, and the person you choose to partner with should support that purpose. When you settle for less, you may find yourself with someone who doesn’t understand or value your calling. This can lead to frustration and resentment as you try to pursue your God-given dreams while your partner pulls you in a different direction. God’s plan for your life is too important to be hindered by a relationship that isn’t in alignment with His will. You need someone who will encourage and support you in fulfilling your divine purpose, not someone who will hold you back.

Settling for less also affects your self-worth. When you choose to be with someone who doesn’t treat you with the respect and love that you deserve, you’re essentially telling yourself that this is all you’re worth. But as a child of God, you are incredibly valuable, and you deserve a relationship that reflects that worth. God’s love for you is unconditional and limitless, and He wants you to experience that same kind of love in your relationships. Settling for less can diminish your sense of self-worth and make you believe that you don’t deserve anything better, which simply isn’t true.

There’s also the emotional toll that comes with settling for less. Relationships that are built on compromise and unmet expectations can lead to a lot of emotional stress. You might find yourself constantly trying to change your partner or yourself to make the relationship work, which can be exhausting and disheartening. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy, disappointment, and even bitterness. A relationship should be a source of joy, encouragement, and mutual growth—not a source of constant stress and heartache. By refusing to settle for less, you’re choosing to protect your emotional well-being and to wait for a relationship that truly brings you happiness and peace.

Settling for less can also rob you of the joy of God’s perfect timing. It’s easy to get caught up in the idea that you need to be in a relationship now, especially when it feels like everyone around you is finding their match. But God’s timing is perfect, and He knows exactly when and how to bring the right person into your life. When you settle, you might be rushing into something that’s not meant for you, potentially missing out on the person God has prepared for you. Trusting in God’s timing requires patience and faith, but it’s always worth it in the end. The joy of meeting someone who truly complements you, who shares your faith and values, and who is aligned with your purpose is worth far more than the temporary relief of just being in a relationship.

Lastly, by settling for less, you limit the potential for a truly God-honoring relationship. God designed relationships to reflect His love and to be a partnership that glorifies Him. When you settle, you’re choosing a relationship that may fall short of this divine purpose. But when you wait for the relationship that God has for you, you open yourself up to the possibility of experiencing a love that reflects Christ’s love for the church—a love that is selfless, sacrificial, and eternal. This kind of relationship not only brings personal fulfillment but also serves as a powerful witness to others of God’s goodness and faithfulness.

In conclusion, the reasons to stop settling for less in a dating relationship are rooted in the truth that God has something far greater in store for you. By choosing not to settle, you protect your spiritual growth, fulfill your divine purpose, honor your self-worth, safeguard your emotional well-being, trust in God’s perfect timing, and open yourself to a relationship that truly honors Him. You are worth the wait, and God’s best for you is worth far more than anything you could ever imagine. Trust in His plan, and know that He has someone for you who will not only love you but will also help you become the person He has called you to be.

Hope Expression celebrates you. 

Prince Victor Matthew