Christ-Centered Date Ideas for Couples
Jessica Burgans
Relationships are complex and multifaceted. They encompass various aspects of attraction, personal connection, and spiritual camaraderie. While some couples might excel in certain areas of their relationships, they may overlook the importance of nurturing their spiritual connection as a couple. Christ-centered date ideas for couples can help.
Importance of Christ-centered date ideas for couples
As Christians, Christ should always be at the center of our lives. When you are part of a couple, it is important to emphasize the importance of keeping focused on Christ as both individuals and as a unit. The Bible advises us against being unequally yoked with unbelievers. This means that God discourages us from being in partnership with those who do not have a relationship with Him.
Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another. – Proverbs 27:17, ESV
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In Proverbs 27:17, God reveals an important truth to us. King Solomon wisely writes that the people we associate with affect and change us. In other words, the words and habits of other people can make us better or worse. This is true for all relationships, but perhaps especially for our romantic ones. Just as “iron sharpens iron” so should we challenge each other and point our romantic partners back to Christ.
“Iron sharpening iron” can be compared to the process of using one tool to sharpen another to make it more effective. When we “sharpen” our partners, we are helping them excel in their spiritual walk and all aspects of their lives. We are holding them, just as they are holding us, accountable and we are working together to further the kingdom of God.
Christ-centered date ideas for couples
Christ-centered dates offer couples a unique and fulfilling way to grow together spiritually. These activities not only provide the opportunity for couples to deepen their relationship with each other, but to deepen their relationships with God.
Bible studies
Bible study is a direct way to grow together in your relationships with God. You can find Bible study guides specifically geared toward couples or choose a favorite book of the Bible to study together. It’s helpful if each person reads the scripture on their own and has time to pray about it before coming together for a study. Be respectful of each other’s opinions and questions.If you are considering marriage, a Bible study will help reveal similarities and differences in your fundamental beliefs. This important revelation should be discovered before marriage to secure a firm foundation for your union and spiritual lives. You may even want to delve into a pre-engagement Bible study with your partner.
Christian concerts
If you share a love for music, attend a Christian-based concert together. The local Christian bookstore or radio station should be able to give you a list of upcoming events. Even if you don’t share a love for the same style of music, you can still have fun trying out a new type of music at a live event.
Worship nights are another great way to incorporate music into your date. If you and your honey don’t agree on a specific genre of music, a praise and worship night might be something you both enjoy. The music is usually geared toward a wide and varied audience so you are likely to find something that you can both find fulfilling. Some churches host special nights of worship, so check with your church and other large churches in your area.
Acts of service
Being the hands and feet of Christ is a rewarding and meaningful experience. Performing acts of service together with your partner can be even more fulfilling. Not only will you be making a difference for the Kingdom of God, but you will be learning each other’s serving style.
Volunteer at a local food bank, sign up for children’s ministry or sign up to run sound for Sunday service. Committing to a recurring volunteer position, such as ushering at church, will also ensure that you have more pre-planned time to spend with your honey.
If you enjoy yard work, you can work together to take care of an elderly neighbor’s yard or run an errand for someone who is ill or injured.
In John 13, Jesus washed the feet of his disciples as a demonstration of humility and service. Consider washing each other’s feet as a symbol of your humility and love for each other. The act is an example of selfless service which is an integral part of a good relationship.
Christian classes
Consider taking a Christian class with your romantic partner. Not only will a class help you grow in your Christian walk, but it will enhance your understanding of your partner’s learning style. Online classes are available, but if you learn best at in-person classes, check out your local Christian college, large local church, or Christian organizations for options.
Whether you take a Christian ethics or a theology class, learning about your faith alongside your partner will help to develop a strong spiritual bond between you. You will also have a built-in study partner for test prep and homework.
Prayer walk time
Combine physical exercise with spiritual growth. A prayer walk can be a time of reflection and camaraderie. Prepare by making a list of prayer requests. Find a walking path that suits both of your physical abilities. You don’t want to have a challenging path full of obstacles and steep inclines so you can concentrate on your prayer requests.
Take turns praying over each other’s requests as you walk. Pause to rest and look at the scenery. Spend some time in silent prayer and reflection at the end of your walk. This activity will create intimacy between you and your partner as you bring your requests for each other before the Father in Heaven.
Christian bookstore
Christian bookstores offer a variety of items that extend beyond just books. Visit a local store with your beloved and check out all the fun merchandise available. Browse the books for one you might want to read together. Check out the clothing section and buy matching t-shirts.
Inquire about a book signing or author meet-and-greet as a possible date night activity. However you spend your time at your local bookseller, it’s nice to focus on the ways of the Lord, spend time with your honey, and support your local Christian bookstore.
Christian-themed scavenger hunt
If you’re looking for something unique to do with your partner, consider a Christian-themed scavenger hunt. The theme will help you stay focused on Christ while you scramble to check items off your list.
Simply make a list of items that symbolize various elements of your faith such as a cross, a dove, or a piece of fruit. Set out together to find all the items on your list. Visit a church that has the symbol of the cross on its sign. Swing by a pet store to see if you can find an actual dove. Head to the supermarket to locate a specific type of fruit. You can add in other elements to search for such as a church with the word “Lord” on the sign or a person carrying a Bible.Christian-themed picnic
Take inspiration from the Scriptures to create a Christian-themed picnic. Serve fish tacos to symbolize Jesus’ miracle of feeding the multitude from two fish. Don’t want fish? Buy a variety of breads, hummus, and other spreads. Celebrate the abundance of God’s creation with a colorful fruit salad.
Serve a traditional Church picnic meal of hotdogs and potato salad. The most important element is spending time with your loved one. Let the food inspire discussions about how we need to nourish our spiritual lives and how we must reach out to others and be fishers of men as the Bible instructs. Most of all, just enjoy a relaxing time with your partner.
Double date
Do you know a married couple who has kept Christ at the center of their relationship? Why not double date with this experienced couple? You can learn a lot about communication, compromise, respect, and practical ways to make a relationship stay focused on Christ and grounded in faith from those who have lived through years of marriage.
Giving your dating life to Christ
Christ-centered dates are a great way to grow together in your Christian faith. God’s emphasis on mutual spiritual growth in all relationships, even our romantic lives, should inspire us to give our romantic relationships over to Him.
If you are struggling to make Christ the center of your relationship, consider contacting a Christian therapist who specializes in couples therapy. A professional therapist can help you learn how to grow together in Christ through prayer, setting healthy boundaries, choosing activities that promote spiritual growth, and encouraging open communication.
When you call our office, we can set up an appointment for you with a Christian therapist who would be happy to help.
“Cuddling on the Bench”, Courtesy of Nong V, Unsplash.com, CC0 License; “Friends”, Courtesy of Felix Rostig, Unsplash.com, CC0 License; “Studying the Word”, Courtesy of Rachel Strong, Unsplash.com, CC0 License; “Hikers”, Courtesy of Toomas Tartes, Unsplash.com, CC0 License