Navigating the Complicated: Dating, Covenant, and the Spirit's Guidance

Sometimes, when we talk about the sacred things—the covenant of marriage, the calling to build a righteous family—it feels like we need a secret handshake or a cheat code. You hear people talk about how complicated it is to date today. 'It's complicated,' they sigh. And honestly? Sometimes, it feels that way. The cultural narrative is shifting beneath our feet, and it can leave even the most seasoned disciple feeling a little adrift.

We are called to be disciples *everywhere*, aren't we? To be internet missionaries, to build up the Kingdom whether we are in the MTC, in our local ward, or just scrolling through social media. But what does that look like when the challenge is finding someone to build a life with?

It’s easy to get caught up in the *how*—the modern logistics of meeting people—and lose sight of the *who* and the *why*. We can get so focused on the 'pickup lines' or the 'perfect first date' that we forget the foundational principle: everything must be done in the light of the gospel.

The Backstory is Always Important

When we look at stories of faith, like the Book of Ruth, we see that even when things start with heartbreak, loss, or massive mistakes (like going to Moab when God warned against it!), the thread of divine providence and covenant faithfulness remains. The beginning is messy, but the direction—the covenant—is pure.

As we navigate our own lives, we need to remember that the principles of discipleship don't change just because the culture does. If we want something different—if we want a marriage that honors the covenants we’ve made—we have to take a different approach. We have to anchor ourselves in what the Spirit testifies of.

What Qualities Truly Stand Out?

The message we reviewed touches on what truly draws us to someone—the qualities that stand out. These aren't just superficial things we notice on a first meeting. They are the reflections of a heart that is actively seeking to be Christlike. They are the signs that the Spirit is at work.

If you are preparing for missionary discussions, or if you are simply trying to deepen your own understanding of what a covenant relationship looks like, I encourage you to look at the scriptures through the lens of covenant keeping. Think about the pattern of faithfulness, even when it’s inconvenient or difficult.

This isn't just about dating; it's about discipleship in general. Are you bringing the principles of the gospel into your friendships? Are you treating your study time, your service, and your interactions with the same reverence? That's the pattern we need to cultivate.

If you want to dive deeper into how to apply these principles to your personal life, I highly recommend reviewing the teachings on covenants. For a great resource to ponder, check out the Iron Rod articles on temple covenants. They always bring the focus back to the eternal perspective.

If you’re feeling stuck in the 'how-to' of modern life, remember that the Spirit is your guide. Don't rely on cultural trends; rely on the covenants you've made with the Lord. That's where the true foundation is found.

If you’re looking for a place to discuss these big questions with other disciples, jump into a Book Club or a Bible Study Group in HolyPlaces. We can walk through the scriptures together and let the Spirit illuminate the path!

🔥 Mission Prep Skill Spotlight: When discussing eternal values, don't just state facts; relate them to covenants. Instead of saying, "Marriage is important," try, "The Lord has established marriage as a sacred covenant designed to help us become more like Him. What covenants do you feel are most important to keep in your life right now?"

Need help wrestling with a tough question an investigator might ask about modern dating? Don't hesitate to bring it to Davee. He's ready to run through the hard questions with you in the AI Investigator role!

📖 Recommended Reading: For more context on faith through difficult times, revisit the Book of Ruth series teachings.