10 Must-Have Things to Have a Christ-Centered Godly Relationship
Finding the love of your life can be an adventure filled with excitement, butterflies, and maybe a few awkward first date conversations. But when you’re on a quest to find a Christian partner and build a healthy, Godly relationship, the journey takes on a whole new level of importance.
This isn’t just about finding someone who can make you laugh or binge-watch Netflix together; it’s about creating a Christ-centered love story that honors God and sets the stage for a lifetime of joy and growth.
To help you on this noble pursuit, I’ve compiled a list of 10 must-have things to have in your Christ-centered relationship.
1. Shared Faith
A common belief system
You know what they say, “A couple that prays together, stays together.” I mean, it’s true though. Having a shared faith with your partner is like having the same favorite Netflix show – you’re just naturally on the same page.
And trust me, it’s way easier to binge-watch the Bible together than argue over theology. We’re talking about 2 Corinthians, not Game of Thrones here.
Growing together spiritually
Let’s be honest, we all have our spiritual peaks and valleys. Sometimes we’re on fire for God, and other times we’re just trying to figure out if we can microwave a frozen pizza without burning down the house.
But that’s okay because, in a Christ-centered relationship, you’re like two peas in a spiritual pod, growing closer to God and each other. It’s like signing up for a gym membership together, but instead of getting buff, you’re flexing those faith muscles.
Supporting each other’s spiritual journey
When you’re dating a fellow Jesus-follower, you’ve got your own personal cheerleader on the sidelines of life. And let’s face it, life can be tough.
But when your partner is right there with you, cheering you on and reminding you that “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13), it makes a world of difference.
So whether you’re leading a small group together or just trying to remember the Ten Commandments, your partner’s got your back, and that’s pretty awesome.
FURTHER READ:Â Loving God vs Loving Your Spouse?
2. Prayer
Praying together
Have you ever heard of couple’s therapy? Well, I’d like to introduce you to couple’s prayer-apy. When you and your partner pray together, it’s like opening up a direct line to God, and trust me, His advice is way better than anything your friends could tell you.
Plus, there’s just something about praying with your significant other that makes you feel like the ultimate power couple. I mean, even Jesus said, “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them” (Matthew 18:20). Talk about a divine date night.
Praying for each other
Remember how your mom used to say she had eyes in the back of her head? Well, when you’re in a Christ-centered relationship, it’s like having a second set of spiritual eyes looking out for you.
You know your partner is praying for you, whether it’s for that big job interview or just for patience when dealing with your not-so-favorite coworker. And let’s be real, who couldn’t use some extra heavenly help now and then?
Encouraging each other in prayer
Sometimes, life can feel like a never-ending to-do list, and it’s easy to let prayer slip through the cracks. But when you’ve got a partner who reminds you of the importance of connecting with God, it’s like having your very own spiritual personal trainer.
They’ll encourage you to drop down and give God twenty (minutes of prayer, that is), and before you know it, you’ll both be spiritual warriors, ready to take on any challenge life throws your way.
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3. Bible Study
Studying the Word together
You know those couples that are always quoting their favorite TV shows and movies to each other? Well, in a Christ-centered relationship, you get to do that, but with the ultimate bestseller, the Bible.
Studying the Word together is like going on a spiritual treasure hunt, uncovering pearls of wisdom that will strengthen your relationship and deepen your faith. Plus, it’s way more satisfying than trying to recite every line from The Office for the hundredth time.
Applying biblical principles to your relationship
When it comes to relationships, the Bible is like the ultimate self-help book, filled with tips and tricks for navigating the rollercoaster of love.
By applying biblical principles to your relationship, you’re essentially putting God in the driver’s seat, which, let’s be real, is way better than trying to steer this crazy thing called love all by yourself.
As Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
Memorizing Scripture together
Remember when you had to memorize those multiplication tables back in grade school? Well, imagine doing that, but with something way cooler and more beneficial: Bible verses.
Memorizing Scripture together is like having a secret language that only you and your partner understand, full of life-changing truths that you can whip out whenever you need a little encouragement or guidance.
Plus, it’s just fun to see who can recite more verses without turning into a tongue-tied mess. Good luck, and may the best memorizer win!
FURTHER READ:Â How to Write a Christian Love Letter
4. Worship
Attending church together
If you thought going to the movies or a concert together was fun, wait until you experience attending church with your significant other. It’s like a weekly date with Jesus, and let me tell you, He always brings the best snacks (you know, bread and wine).
Plus, there’s just something about singing praises and learning about God’s Word together that can’t be beat. I mean, who wouldn’t want a love story based on the ultimate love story found in the Bible?
Participating in worship activities
Being part of a Christ-centered relationship means you’re not just sitting in the pews together; you’re actively participating in worship activities as a couple.
From joining the choir to serving in the children’s ministry, there are endless ways to get involved and make a difference together. You’ll be like a dynamic duo, spreading the love of Jesus wherever you go. Talk about #relationshipgoals.
Cultivating a personal relationship with Jesus
At the end of the day, a Christ-centered relationship isn’t just about being close to each other; it’s about being close to Jesus. By cultivating your own personal relationship with Him, you’re essentially inviting God to be the third wheel in your relationship, which is pretty amazing when you think about it.
After all, there’s nothing more romantic than walking hand-in-hand with your partner as you both grow closer to the One who created love in the first place.
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5. Communication
Open and honest communication
Ever wish you could read your partner’s mind? Well, I hate to break it to you, but telepathy isn’t a thing (yet). But you know what is? Open and honest communication. When you’re in a Christ-centered relationship, you learn to spill the tea about your feelings, fears, and frustrations without holding back.
And guess what? God totally approves of this kind of heart-to-heart talk. After all, He’s the one who said, “Therefore, each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor” (Ephesians 4:25).
Practicing active listening
We’ve all been there—you’re trying to tell a story, and your partner is busy scrolling through their phone or staring blankly into space. Not cool, right? In a Christ-centered relationship, you learn to practice active listening, which is basically like giving your partner your undivided attention on steroids.
You’re not just hearing what they say; you’re understanding, empathizing, and responding with love. It’s like being Jesus with a smartphone, minus the miracles.
Addressing conflicts in a Christ-like manner
Let’s face it: no relationship is perfect, and even the most devout couples will face conflicts from time to time. But when you’re in a Christ-centered relationship, you learn to address these issues in a way that would make Jesus proud.
Instead of throwing plates or storming out of the room, you take a deep breath, pray for guidance, and remember that “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger” (Proverbs 15:1). Before you know it, you’ll be resolving conflicts like a boss—or, you know, like the Son of God.
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6. Accountability
Holding each other accountable for actions and choices
Picture this: your partner is about to dive headfirst into a family-sized tub of ice cream, and you’re there to gently remind them of their fitness goals.
That’s accountability in action, my friends. In a Christ-centered relationship, you’re not just each other’s cheerleaders; you’re also the coaches, helping each other stay on track with your spiritual and personal goals.
And let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like having someone who loves you enough to say, “Hey, maybe don’t eat that entire pizza by yourself.”
Seeking counsel from trusted Christian friends and mentors
There’s a reason why Jesus sent out His disciples in pairs—it’s because two heads are better than one (especially when one of those heads belongs to a wise, God-fearing person).
In a Christ-centered relationship, you’ll find yourself seeking counsel from trusted Christian friends and mentors who can offer guidance, perspective, and maybe even a few laughs along the way.
After all, Proverbs 11:14 says, “Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.”
Continually evaluating the health of your relationship
If you’ve ever tried to maintain a garden, you know that it takes constant care and attention. The same goes for a Christ-centered relationship.
Instead of letting things slide or ignoring potential problems, you’ll find yourselves continually evaluating the health of your relationship, making sure it’s rooted in God’s love and growing in the right direction. It might not be as fun as binge-watching Netflix together, but trust me, it’s worth the effort.
FURTHER READ:Â Why Christian Women Should Find Their Identity in Christ, Not in Relationships
7. Service
Serving others together
Forget about those couples who run marathons or climb mountains together—there’s nothing more impressive than a couple that serves others in the name of Jesus. When you and your partner join forces to help those in need, it’s like becoming a dynamic duo of God’s love, spreading hope and joy wherever you go.
Plus, there’s something truly special about witnessing your significant other washing dishes at a soup kitchen or tutoring underprivileged kids. Trust me, it’s way better than any romantic comedy you could watch.
Volunteering at your local church or community
You know what they say: the couple that volunteers together stays together (or something like that). In a Christ-centered relationship, you’ll find yourselves drawn to opportunities to serve, whether it’s at your local church or in your community.
And let me tell you, there’s no better way to bond with your partner than by rolling up your sleeves and making a difference in the lives of others. As Galatians 5:13 says, “Serve one another humbly in love.”
Demonstrating Christ’s love through acts of service
Ever heard of love languages? Well, when you’re in a Christ-centered relationship, one of your top love languages should be acts of service.
By demonstrating Christ’s love through kindness, compassion, and generosity, you’re not only setting an example for others, but you’re also strengthening your own bond as a couple. It’s like hitting two birds with one heavenly stone (but, you know, in a totally nonviolent way).
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8. Forgiveness
Understanding and practicing forgiveness
You’ve probably heard the phrase “forgive and forget,” but let’s be honest, forgetting is way easier said than done. However, in a Christ-centered relationship, you’ll learn the true meaning of forgiveness and how to practice it daily.
It’s like having a superpower that allows you to let go of grudges and bitterness, making room for more love and joy in your life. And the best part? This superpower comes straight from God, so you know it’s legit.
Seeking and granting forgiveness regularly
In a healthy, Christ-centered relationship, forgiveness isn’t a one-time event; it’s an ongoing process. You’ll find yourselves seeking and granting forgiveness on a regular basis, whether it’s for small offenses or big misunderstandings.
This might sound exhausting, but trust me, it’s way better than letting resentment fester and poison your love story. As Ephesians 4:32 says, “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”
Reflecting on the forgiveness we receive through Christ
When it comes to forgiveness, there’s no better example than Jesus Himself. I mean, the guy literally died on a cross to forgive our sins—that’s pretty hardcore.
In a Christ-centered relationship, you’ll find yourselves reflecting on the forgiveness you receive through Christ and using that as motivation to extend grace to one another. It’s like having a constant reminder that if Jesus can forgive us, surely we can forgive each other (even when your partner leaves the toilet seat up… again).
FURTHER READ: Isaac and Rebekah’s Love Story
9. Boundaries
Establishing and maintaining healthy boundaries
In the world of dating, boundaries can sometimes feel like a buzzkill. But in a Christ-centered relationship, they’re more like a superpower that keeps your love story strong and healthy.
By establishing and maintaining healthy boundaries, you’re not only protecting your hearts, but you’re also keeping God at the center of your relationship. And let’s be real, who wouldn’t want a love story that’s as secure as Fort Knox (but, you know, with less gold and more Jesus)?
Respecting each other’s emotional, physical, and spiritual needs
Boundaries aren’t just about saying no; they’re also about respecting each other’s emotional, physical, and spiritual needs. In a Christ-centered relationship, you’ll learn to honor these needs with care and consideration, ensuring that both you and your partner feel valued and respected.
It’s like being the ultimate tag team, supporting each other’s growth and well-being while still leaving room for God to work His magic.
Avoiding temptation and seeking purity
Let’s face it: temptation is everywhere, especially when you’re in a relationship. But when you’re committed to having a Christ-centered love story, you’ll find yourselves actively avoiding temptation and seeking purity in all aspects of your lives.
This might mean making tough choices or having awkward conversations, but trust me, it’s worth it in the end. After all, as 1 Corinthians 6:18 says, “Flee from sexual immorality,” and who are we to argue with the Apostle Paul?
FURTHER READ:Â What is Agape Christian Love?
10. Trust
Building trust through honesty and integrity
Trust is like the secret ingredient that makes any relationship go from good to great. In a Christ-centered relationship, you’ll find yourselves building trust through honesty and integrity, creating a foundation that can withstand life’s storms.
No more guessing games or white lies—just two people who are committed to being real with each other, even when it’s tough. And you know what? It’s pretty amazing how a little trust can make a whole lot of difference.
Trusting in God’s plan for your relationship
When you’re head over heels in love, it’s easy to get carried away with your own plans and dreams. But in a Christ-centered relationship, you’ll learn to trust in God’s plan for your love story, even when it doesn’t match up with your Pinterest board.
It’s like having a personal GPS system that’s programmed by the Almighty Himself, guiding you and your partner toward a future that’s better than anything you could imagine on your own.
Relying on God’s guidance in all aspects of your relationship
Let’s be honest: sometimes, love can be downright confusing. But when you’re in a Christ-centered relationship, you’ll find yourselves relying on God’s guidance in all aspects of your lives together, from the big decisions to the everyday dilemmas.
It’s like having a direct line to the wisest, most loving advice-giver in the universe (because, well, you do). So go ahead, lean into that heavenly wisdom, and watch your relationship flourish like never before.
As you embark on your journey to create a Christ-centered relationship, remember that the foundation for any successful partnership is rooted in faith, love, and trust in God.
By focusing on these 10 must-have elements and keeping Jesus at the center of your love story, you’ll not only build a healthy, God-honoring relationship, but you’ll also create a bond that can withstand life’s storms and trials.
Just like Ecclesiastes 4:12 says, “Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” So, go forth and cultivate a relationship where God’s love shines brightly, and watch as your love story unfolds into something truly divine.
God bless, Amen.
