Sometimes when we think about prayer we think it should only apply to more ‘spiritual’ things, or serious things such as praying for healing or protection or God’s provision. But it’s amazing to know that God is interested in every area of our lives- including who we date and eventually marry. Prayer is actually not complicated; it is simply having a conversation with God. So, how exactly do you pray through your dating experiences?

Dating can be disheartening. I know because I’ve been there. But dating when we’re disheartened is a recipe for failure. So how can we remain positive and hopeful, even when faced with dating disappointment?

During the dating process it can be easy to fall into the trap of thinking that every meaningful question and conversation about relationships should relate to romantic relationships. In fact, learning how someone interacts with and treats other people in their life can be revealing – and a lot less pressure! Rather than jump in with direct questions about previous relationships and hopes for future romance, why not ask instead about other connections – and of course, be prepared to answer similar questions too!

Once you start to move past the introductions and icebreakers, you’ll want to know someone more deeply – you’ll need to know about their values. Going beyond the superficial, these are the things that determine how someone really lives their life. Rather than ask outright about values, entering into a conversation about real choices and experiences can be revealing and feels more natural. Here are seven questions that help you ask a date about their values.

Looking for a partner who shares your faith is of key importance for Christian Connection members. But how can the reality of lived faith come out through dating conversation? Being able to repeat the story of how you became a Christian might be helpful, but how can you go deeper into how you experience your faith every day? Here are some conversation starters to help you to ask about and talk about your faith when you’re getting to know someone.

Wouldn’t it be nice if the simplest questions could get us the answers we need? Or if we could answer a question about our hopes, what motivates us, or who we care about in a way that doesn’t sound like a cliché? Often if we’re asked about our values, our priorities, relationships, faith and anything that goes deeper than our favourite burger, conversational stage fright can set in. Or we can be so well prepared with a ‘good’ answer, we might not stop to reflect on whether things have changed or we’re being as open as we could be. Here are nine low pressure date questions to take a conversation deeper without awkwardness…

Speaking for the first time can be an anxious experience. No matter how much you’re looking forward to finally hearing someone’s voice – whether on the phone, a video call or face to face across a café table – it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or nervous. Having some simple dating icebreakers can really help. As part of Christian Connection’s #BetterDating resources, we’re starting the #BetterConversations week with some easy questions to launch into that first chat without nerves.

Welcome to Christian Connection’s Better Dating, Better Connections resources. For over 20 years Christian Connection has been helping single Christians just like you meet and form lasting relationships. We’ve heard from thousands of couples who first connected through the site and app, who each have an encouraging, enriching story to share. And it’s good to remember that each love story started with a conversation. A simple hello, a friendly question, an exchange that led to more.
So, in addition to our weekly blog full of dating and relationship advice, we’re sharing easy ways to help you date better, build stronger relationships and get to know like-minded single Christians, starting with the basis of great relationships: Better Conversations.