As children, many of us most likely had big plans and dreams about what we wanted to be when we grew up. We may have had stars in our eyes when we envisioned a “happily ever after” future. Now that we are grown up, our perspective on relationships may have changed because of some bad choices we made. However, despite any previous negative experiences, there’s no reason not to fully expect blessed and empowered lives in Christ.

Believers have a tremendous advantage over others who don’t know Jesus. We’ve been given everything we could ever possibly need to lead fulfilling lives. “According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue” (2 Peter 1:3). This includes godly wisdom on dating. We’re made complete and whole through our relationship with God, not through any earthly relationship.

The knowledge of this grounds us solidly with every friendship we form, and helps us keep our perspective. Our relationship with God is even more important when we get bombarded by messages that don’t line up with His Word. Happiness and joy come from God, who wants to direct and guide us in this area. “Flee also youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart” (2 Timothy 2:22, NKJV). When we defer to Him instead of being stubborn and headstrong, the results are always positive.

Each of us has an assignment from God. It’s important that we learn what it is so that we can properly fulfill it. Surrounding ourselves with the right kind of people keeps us focused on the right things; associating with ungodly people can lead us down the wrong path and make us stumble. “Do not be so deceived and misled! Evil companionships (communion, associations) corrupt and deprave good manners and morals and character” (1 Corinthians 15:33, AMPC). God wants to bless our relationships; He can do so when we spend time with morally upright people.

On our Christian walk, we encounter all kinds of influences, some of which are to be actively avoided. The enemy tries to plant the wrong kind of people in our path in hopes of leading us into a trap and shutting us down. If we’re not listening closely to the Holy Spirit’s warning, we can find ourselves ensnared in the wrong kind of relationship. “Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness? What harmony is there between Christ and Belial? Or what does a believer have in common with an unbeliever? What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols? For we are the temple of the living God” (2 Corinthians 6:14-16, NIV). A relationship with someone who leads us away from the faith can mess up our minds, and it takes serious effort to get back on track.

God wants the best for us, whether it’s in the area of forming successful relationships or achieving the dreams He put in our hearts. When we get our priorities in order, we position ourselves to receive from Him. “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you” (Matthew 6:33). Not everything we see in the world is good for us. Trusting God in the area of our relationships allows Him to fill them with peace and joy.

For more on forming successful relationships God’s way, click on the link below for the Grace of Mutual Submission Companion Guide: Equally Created—A Singles Guide.