Courtship vs. Dating: Navigating Love with Intention and Purpose by Vincent & Valerie Woodard

In this episode of Couples Pursuit with Vincent and Valerie, we discuss the courtship stage and how we can sometimes confuse it with dating.

We’ll outline key distinctions between the two and share valuable insights to help you navigate love with intention and purpose.

1. Pray intentionally. Don’t just ask for a spouse, but ask for what you want, need, and desire in a spouse.

2. Dating is recreational. Courtship is intentional. Though both may include similar activities, the end purpose and the goal are not necessarily the same.

3. Set physical boundaries. Doing so allows space to see if you want to build a relationship.

4. Know if you are ready to court/be courted, and be honest about that with yourself and others.

5. Set your standard and maintain it! Everyone will not meet it, but you should never lower it.

6. Remember that sex is reserved for marriage for a reason. It may not be the standard for non-believers, but for those who are followers of Christ, it is easy to see the significance.

7. Physical intimacy bonds one person to another in ways we cannot see. (Remember the sticky paper?) It is not as simple as just walking away.

8. A breakup after a courtship can be disappointing, but a breaking up after dating and intimacy can be devastating.

9. Adapt the mindset of courtship vs. dating. Court with purpose. Finding the ” one ” may take a while to find the “one,” but you’ll be so glad you saved your love to share with them exclusively!

10. Courtship includes accountability. There are plenty of activities to be shared that cultivate a relationship that does not have physical intimacy.

11. Abstinence and celibacy are very real possibilities for you. Having a relationship with Jesus makes this possible.

Navigating love and relationships can be challenging, but you can make more intentional and purposeful decisions with the right mindset and understanding of courtship versus dating.

Remember to always stay true to your values, set boundaries, and keep your standards high. By doing so, you’ll be well on your way to finding a love that’s meant to last.