2-4-6-8, who do we appreciate? You! You! Goooo you! Okay, forgive our cheesy cheerleader impression, but we wanted to set the tone for today’s talk.
What we want to talk about today is encouragement and how it plays into being single or in a relationship. Let’s lead off by looking at a passage from Hebrews and then dive into it.
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” – Hebrews 10:24-25
Encouragement in the world of dating can come in a lot of forms. And the writer of Hebrews clearly shows us that as Christians, this is an important trait to have and to share with others.
There are two areas of encouragement in particular that we want to explore today.
First, encouraging your other single friends. Often, the world of being single can feel lonely and alienating. When you go on several first dates that don’t work out, or you can’t find anyone to even go on a date with, or you send a bunch of messages and get no responses, it can get tough to keep your head up.
This is where encouragement can play such a big role! If you have single friends, check in on them. Encourage them when things are going well, and encourage them when things aren’t going so well. You’d be amazed at what this could do for them.
In turn, they’ll likely check in on you. If they’re on a peak and you’re in a valley, they’ll be there to help encourage you.
The second area we want to look at is encouraging the singles you’re dating. One of the most attractive traits someone can have in a Godly relationship is the ability to be positive, uplifting, and encouraging. As you get to know a new potential match, find ways that you can support and encourage them. These can be areas of their faith they’re working on, things in their personal or family life, things at work, things at school, hobbies—the list is endless.
By being the positive beacon of light in their life, you can help to build emotional intimacy while truly being Christ-like.
Remember, while encouraging is an action, it’s also a skill. Find ways to get better at it. Practice it. You won’t find many people in this world who don’t love a good dose of encouragement.
📝 Here’s Some Reflection Questions:
- What are some ways you’re currently encouraging your single friends that you can ensure you continue doing?
- Are there any ways you can encourage your matches and dates that you can start doing?
- Are you getting the right levels of encouragement that you need? If not, are there friends or leaders you can reach out to and ask if they’ll help?
Are you a single Christian looking to meet someone special? You can sign up for the Higher Bond App for free now! Click here to learn more or download the app below:
