How to Get Back Out There

Am I Ready to Date Again?

If you are divorced and considering dating again, the first and most important question to ask yourself is, “Am I ready to date again?” As a Christian, you didn’t take your previous marriage, or your divorce, lightly. It is impossible to detach yourself from your spouse and think that you can enjoy a new relationship immediately. Take your time, be patient and be sure you have fully forgiven your former spouse.

If you decide you’re not ready, or if you feel any uncertainty, then you may still need time to heal. Seek help from the Christian community around you by seeking out a Christian counselor, asking a pastor for advice or joining a support group at your church. Remember you are never alone; God will always provide help when we’re in need.

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What Should I Tell My Children

Balancing romance and parenting is one of the toughest things a single parent will ever do. There are quite a few questions divorced parents must ask themselves before reentering the dating scene, including “Have my children healed from the pain of my divorce? Are they ready to see me with someone new? Will the person I’m dating be a good Christian influence?”

Talk with your children and ask them how they feel about your divorce and the possibility of you dating someone new. However, even if your children say they are comfortable with the idea of you dating again, you should still take it slow. Give yourself time to meet and get to know potential suitors before introducing them to your children. This will spare your kids from any possible pain or confusion that may arise as they get used to the idea of you dating again. Your children should feel encouraged by the possibility of you finding new happiness, but it will only cause more pain and frustration if they’re not ready.

Are You Holding Out for God's Best?

Remember to be patient and live life on God’s terms. That means slowing down before getting into a serious relationship as well as giving yourself time to heal. Taking your time will give you a chance to better assess those you date. Have you asked yourself why your marriage didn’t work? Or what you might have done wrong? If you don’t take the time to do this, you may wind up choosing the wrong person again or making similar mistakes.

This time, hold out for God’s best by being patient and only dating those who share your same values and morals. Create a list of qualities you are looking for in a future spouse and do not stray from that list. You must be sure potential suitors meet your personal requirements from your faith, to your stance on money, to your desire for children. If they don’t meet these criteria, then there is no point in wasting any time on a relationship that isn’t right for you.