Dating with Purpose: Trusting God with Your Heart
Heart Happy
Audio By Carbonatix
I didn’t always date with purpose.
Like many young women, I longed to be loved. That deep desire, paired with a lack of wisdom, led me down painful roads. My heart craved validation, and I thought a boyfriend could fill the empty spaces inside me. But that kind of thinking led to heartbreak, regret, and eventually, a desperate prayer:
“God, I’ve messed up my life. If You can do anything with it, please do.”
And He did.
Love Starts with God
Too often, we search for love before we know what love truly is. The world tells us that romance will complete us, but Scripture reveals a different truth:
“We love because he first loved us.” – 1 John 4:19
Real love begins with God’s love for us. Before we can love someone well, we must first be filled with the kind of love that doesn’t leave us empty—the love of Christ.
As I turned my heart toward Jesus, I realized I had been looking for love in all the wrong places. I thought a guy would give me worth. Instead, I found that my worth was already established—purchased by Christ, sealed by His sacrifice.
Guarding Your Heart
Many of us have heard, “Follow your heart.” But the Bible says something different:
“Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.” – Proverbs 4:23
Dating with purpose means protecting your heart, not throwing it into relationships that are not grounded in faith. It means making intentional choices based on wisdom, not just emotions.
Ask yourself:
- Am I seeking a relationship out of loneliness or God’s leading?
- Does this person encourage my walk with Christ or pull me away from it?
- Am I making choices that honor God and protect my future marriage?
Setting Boundaries: Protecting What Matters
One of the most important ways to date with purpose is by setting healthy boundaries—emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Boundaries aren’t about restriction; they’re about protection.
Why boundaries matter:
- They help you honor God in your relationship.
- They prevent emotional attachment too soon.
- They safeguard your purity and your heart.
- They give clarity in decision-making.
Boundaries might look like choosing to save sex for marriage, limiting alone time in private spaces, or committing to pray together instead of just being led by emotions. Whatever your boundaries are, decide them before you enter a relationship so they aren’t determined in a moment of weakness.
“Do not arouse or awaken love until it so desires.” – Song of Solomon 2:7
Love and physical intimacy are powerful, but God designed them for the right time and the right person. Waiting isn’t about missing out—it’s about preparing for something worth waiting for.
Becoming Who God Created You to Be
Before you meet your future husband, God is shaping you. Instead of focusing on finding “the one,” focus on becoming the person God has designed you to be.
“Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you your heart’s desires.” – Psalm 37:4
When we seek God first, our desires align with His. We stop settling for relationships that drain us, and we start looking for the kind of love that reflects Christ’s love—patient, kind, selfless, and rooted in truth.
Praying for Your Future Husband
Even before you meet him, you can pray for your future husband. Pray for his heart, his faith, his character. And as you pray, ask God to prepare your own heart for the relationship He has planned.
A Simple Prayer:
“Lord, I trust You with my future. I surrender my desires to You. Help me grow in wisdom, patience, and love. Prepare me to be a godly wife, and prepare my future husband to be a godly leader. Let my heart rest in Your perfect timing. Amen.”
Your Love Story is in God’s Hands
Dating with purpose doesn’t mean you have to have all the answers—it means you trust the One who does.
If marriage is in God’s plan for you, He will bring the right person at the right time. Until then, fall in love with Jesus—the One who will never leave, never fail, and never stop loving you.
Looking for some resources to help you on this path?
Before You Meet Your Future Husband
Praying for Your Future Husband
Want more insight? Join us in reading Job on the Daily Bible podcast! 🎧 LISTEN & 📺 WATCH
Weekly readings for the Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle
February 3
Exodus 7:14-25, Exodus 8-9
Unraveling the Deeper Meaning Behind the Plagues
As we revisit the tales of the plagues from the Book of Exodus, memories of Sunday School drawings and simplistic interpretations come to mind. However, as adults, we understand the depth and intensity of these plagues, signs and wonders far beyond child’s play.
The Plagues: A Divine Display of Power
The plagues, starting with the Nile turning to blood, followed by invasions of frogs, gnats, and flies, are not just random occurrences. Each plague strikes at the core of Egyptian life and belief, challenging the power of their gods. For seven days, the Egyptians had no clean water to drink. Pharaoh’s magicians replicated some of these plagues, yet Pharaoh’s heart remained unyielding, only to harden further with each subsequent plague.
The Symbolism Behind the Plagues
In my first biblical novel, “The Elder Sister,” I delved into the significance of each plague, discovering their symbolic attack on various Egyptian deities:
- Nile to Blood: A direct challenge to Hapi, the Egyptian god of the Nile.
- Frogs: An affront to Heqet, the goddess of birth, depicted with a frog’s head.
- Gnats: A defiance of Set, the god of desert storms.
- Flies: An obscuration of Re, the sun god.
- Death of the Livestock: A blow to Hathor and Apis, deities represented by a cow and a bull.
- Boils: An assault on Sekhmet, the goddess with power over disease.
- Hail: A confrontation of Nut, the sky goddess, and Osiris, the god of crops and fertility.
Each plague represented a calculated move by the true God, showcasing His supremacy over the Egyptian pantheon.
Word of the Day: Show
Definition: To cause or allow to be seen; exhibit; display. To make known to; inform, instruct, or prove to.
Exodus 7:17 states, “So this is what the Lord says: ‘I will show you that I am the Lord.’” This “show” of plagues was more than a display of divine might; it was a lesson for Pharaoh, Moses, and the Israelites. The plagues were a demonstration that Yahweh was the true and only God.
The Purpose Behind the Divine Spectacle
God’s orchestration of the plagues served a dual purpose. For Pharaoh, it was a direct challenge to his belief system and power. For Moses and the Israelites, it was an affirmation of Yahweh’s omnipotence and a reassurance of His commitment to their liberation. Sometimes, God’s ways of showing off are meant to provide us with something tangible to cling to in times of doubt and fear.
A Lesson in Faith and Power
The story of the plagues is a powerful reminder of God’s unmatched power and His willingness to go to great lengths to free His people. As we revisit these stories with a deeper understanding, we gain a new appreciation for the ways in which God asserts His sovereignty and cares for His chosen people.
February 4
Exodus 10-12
The Plagues, Pain, and the Power of Being Lifted Up
In the biblical narrative of Exodus, we witness the unfolding of the first seven plagues – a series of catastrophic events that brought Egypt to its knees. Yet, as we delve deeper into the story, we see these events were just the beginning. The eighth plague, the locusts, marks a continuation of a series of signs meant to demonstrate God’s power.
The Deeper Meaning Behind God’s Actions
Exodus 10:1 reveals God’s intention behind these plagues – not just to punish but to make known His power and ensure that these events would be recounted for generations. This serves as a reminder of God’s omnipotence and His masterful orchestration of events. We also see the struggle of Moses, who, despite knowing that his pleas to Pharaoh would initially be in vain, persisted.
The Significance of the Passover
Then, we are introduced to the instructions for the first Passover. This detailed and specific ritual, including the selection and sacrifice of a lamb, is a testament to God’s nature: holy, organized, detailed, and expectant of obedience. The Passover not only commemorates the Israelites’ liberation but also foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice – the Lamb of God.
John 12:32: A Reflection of Sacrifice and Salvation
John 12:32 resonates deeply with the Passover story, as it speaks of Christ being ‘lifted up’ to draw all people to Himself. This lifting up on the cross is a poignant parallel to the Passover lamb and serves as the ultimate act of love and redemption.
Navigating Pain and Finding Comfort
Recently, a conversation with a friend enduring immense pain after surgery brought to light the complexities of suffering. We often grapple with the ‘why’ behind pain, just as the Israelites might have questioned their suffering. In these moments, offering simple presence and empathy can be more comforting than seeking reasons or explanations.
Word of the Day: Lifted
Definition: To make audible or louder, as the voice or something voiced. To raise in rank, condition, estimation, etc.; elevate or exalt.
The concept of being ‘lifted’ takes on a multifaceted meaning in these contexts. In times of pain and uncertainty, we can lift each other through prayer and support. This act of lifting not only helps those in pain but also strengthens us, providing courage and resilience.
Embracing the Role of Lifting in Our Spiritual Journey
As we navigate our own challenges and support others through theirs, the act of lifting becomes central to our spiritual journey. Whether lifting our friends in prayer, being lifted by God’s grace, or lifting our praises to God, as in Michael W. Smith’s “Open the Eyes of My Heart,” these acts of elevation bring us closer to understanding and experiencing the divine.
Finding Strength in the Midst of Struggles
The story of the plagues, the Passover, and our personal battles with pain and suffering remind us that even in the darkest times, there is hope and strength to be found. By lifting each other up and focusing on the divine, we can navigate the most challenging circumstances with faith and resilience.
February 5
Exodus 13-15
Does God Have a Plan?
This part of the Exodus story is a thrilling reminder of God’s power and plan. Despite the Israelites’ fear as the Egyptians pursued them, God planned to display His glory through Pharaoh’s defeat, demonstrating His sovereignty.
The Power of Deliverance
The crossing of the Red Sea showcases God’s mighty hand, a theme echoed in the Song of Moses, a hymn of salvation. Rich Mullins’ song “My Deliverer” poignantly captures this sentiment, reminding us of the unbreakable promises of God. The deliverance from Egypt reminds us of God’s ability to bring salvation against seemingly impossible odds.
Forgetting and Remembering
At Marah, the Israelites’ encounter with bitter waters becomes a metaphor for our tendency to forget God’s greatness and promises. This recurring theme of forgetfulness versus the remembrance of God’s deeds is a powerful lesson in faith.
Dedication of the Firstborn
In Exodus 13:2, God commands the Israelites to dedicate every firstborn. This points to the ultimate dedication of Jesus, His firstborn son. This act symbolizes a deeper meaning of redemption and sacrifice, themes that are central to the faith journey.
The Concept of Redemption
The term “redeem” is the price paid for rescue or deliverance. This is vividly portrayed in the pidyon ha-ben ceremony, where the father redeems his firstborn son, symbolizing that redemption transcends monetary value and points towards a spiritual exchange.
Word of the Day: Dedicate
Definition: To set apart and consecrate to a deity or to a sacred purpose; to set aside for or assign to a specific function, task, or purpose.
When we dedicate ourselves and our children to God, we may not see the immediate outcome, but we can trust His grand design.
The Personal Story of Thomas Graumann
The story of Thomas Graumann, a Holocaust survivor, beautifully illustrates the power of dedication and God’s plan. His journey from being a Jewish child sent to safety on a Kindertransport to becoming a Christian missionary is a testament to the mysterious ways in which dedication and faith can shape a life. His mother’s will, hoping for him to join a Christian family and become a missionary or pastor, reveals a remarkable foresight and faith.
The Symbol of Jesus in Passover
The Passover symbolizes Jesus’s ultimate sacrifice, the “Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world,” as proclaimed by John the Baptist. Like the Israelites’ journey, Thomas’ story reminds us of the profound impact of faith and dedication. It teaches us that while we may not always see the immediate results of our dedication, a greater plan at work often transcends our understanding but always holds promise for redemption and hope.
February 6
Exodus 16-19
Manna, Quail, and Water from a Rock
Today’s journey begins with a remarkable story of sustenance–manna and quail provided by heaven itself. This miraculous event directly responds to the Israelites’ hunger and complaints, underscoring their physical needs and God’s unwavering care. It’s a powerful reminder that we are never forsaken, even in the most desolate wildernesses.
Water from a Rock: A Testament of Faith
The narrative takes an extraordinary turn with water flowing from a rock. Yes, a rock! Following God’s guidance, the parched and desperate Israelites witnessed Moses striking a rock, from which water gushed. This quenches their thirst and serves as a testament to God’s mercy and might. Moses names the sites Massah and Meribah, symbolizing the Israelites’ testing and quarreling and highlighting God’s patient provision.
Battle Against the Amalekites: A Clash of Descendants
The saga continues with the Israelites confronting the Amalekites, led by Amalek, a descendant of Esau. This confrontation isn’t just a battle; it’s the unfolding of a prophecy made to Rebecca about two nations stemming from her womb. The descendants of Jacob (Israelites) and Esau (Amalekites) clash, representing a larger spiritual conflict. With Aaron and Hur’s support, Moses leads his people to victory, marking a significant moment in the Israelites’ journey.
Jethro’s Wisdom: Leadership and Faith
Another highlight is Jethro’s visit to Moses. Jethro, Moses’ father-in-law, acknowledges God’s greatness and imparts crucial leadership advice to Moses. This interaction is a testament to the transformative power of witnessing God’s deeds, leading even a priest of other gods to recognize the one true God.
The Revelation at Sinai: A Covenant with Conditions
The chapters culminate with the Lord revealing Himself at Mount Sinai. Here, God lays out a covenant with a pivotal condition: obedience in exchange for being chosen as His special treasure. This moment is significant as it establishes the Israelites as a kingdom of priests and a holy nation, setting the stage for their unique relationship with God.
The Importance of Sabbath: A Lesson in Trust and Rest
These narratives also show the Israelites grumbling and complaining, yet God consistently provides. Interestingly, this includes specific instructions about the Sabbath–a day of complete rest and a practice that dates back to creation. This emphasis on the Sabbath is a call to trust in God’s provision and to set aside time for spiritual reflection and rest.
Word of the Day: Testify
Definition: To give evidence or bear witness; a reminder of our role in sharing the wonders of God’s deeds in our lives and history.
The Power of Testimony: Sharing God’s Works
Finally, we discuss the importance of testifying or sharing what God has done in our lives. Moses’ testimony to Jethro and the command to preserve the story of the manna for future generations are powerful examples. Sharing our experiences of God’s work strengthens our faith and can profoundly impact others, as illustrated by the life-changing conversation on a flight.
These biblical chapters are more than historical accounts; they are rich with lessons in faith, providence, and the importance of sharing and preserving God’s works. As we reflect on these narratives, let us be inspired to trust, obey, and testify to the great works of God.
February 7
Exodus 20-21, Exodus 22-1-15
Navigating Life with the Ten Commandments
In the heart of the biblical narrative, God begins the Ten Commandments with a powerful introduction, “I am the Lord your God,” immediately reminding His people of His deliverance from Egypt, the land of their slavery. This preamble sets the stage for the following commandments, intricately divided into two segments: the first four focusing on our relationship with God and the last six concerning our interactions with each other.
1. You must not have any other god but me.
2. You must not make for yourself an idol of any kind.
3. You must not misuse the name of the Lord your God.
4. Remember to observe the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.
5. Honor your father and mother.
6. You must not murder.
7. You must not commit adultery.
8. You must not steal.
9. You must not testify falsely against your neighbor.
10. You must not covet… anything that belongs to your neighbor.
These commandments serve as more than ancient laws; they mirror our imperfections and remind us of our innate tendency to worship ourselves and rely on our own merits. They starkly reveal how far we’ve strayed and how desperately we need a Savior, as none can stand before God justified by these laws alone. This realization is humbling and liberating, pointing us toward the perfect fulfillment of these laws in Christ.
The experience of the Israelites at Sinai, overwhelmed by God’s presence to the point of fear, challenges our modern queries of desiring a tangible display of God. Yet, their immediate return to sin post-revelation underscores a profound truth: external manifestations alone cannot transform the human heart.
As we progress through Exodus, we see God’s laws extending to societal structures, from the construction of altars to the treatment of slaves and the protection of personal property. These instructions were not arbitrary but tailored to guide a community freshly freed from oppression toward a just and orderly society grounded in respect for God and fellow humans.
Word of the Day: Instruct
Definition: To furnish with knowledge, especially by a systematic method; to teach, train, or educate. To furnish with orders or directions.
This word resonates deeply, especially as a homeschooling mom. Instructions guide us towards what’s good and beneficial. If only my children listen to my instructions and make good decisions! Yet, our human nature often leans towards self-centeredness, highlighting the insufficiency of laws alone to foster genuine obedience.
This biblical journey through the Ten Commandments and beyond reminds us of our continuous need for grace and the transformative power of a heart aligned with God’s will. It’s a call to reflect on our lives, recognizing that true obedience springs from a heart changed by love, not fear of retribution. In daily living, these ancient words still speak, guiding us toward a reverence for God and genuine love for our neighbors.
February 8
Exodus 22:16-3, Exodus 23-24
Embracing the Fullness of God’s Promises
Exodus 22 and 23 provide more than rules; they outline a divine blueprint for living a life that honors God and respects others. Among these instructions, the principle of Sabbath rest stands out, teaching us the value of renewal for both the land and our souls.
Justice and Renewal: A Divine Rhythm
Exodus 23 calls us to uphold justice, urging us to avoid spreading rumors, resist the urge to follow the crowd blindly, and extend help even to those we consider enemies. This chapter also emphasizes rest, not just as a command but as a divine rhythm for life. This culminates in the instruction to let the land lie fallow every seventh year, a practice of trust and renewal in God’s provision.
Celebration of Festivals: Remembering God’s Deliverance
The passage introduces the celebration of three annual festivals, which mark significant moments in Israel’s journey with God. These festivals go beyond agricultural milestones; they are spiritual commemorations of God’s deliverance, provision, and ongoing protection.
Divine Guidance and the Angel of the Lord
A striking feature in this narrative is the appearance of an angel, believed to be a pre-incarnate manifestation of Christ, who guides and protects the Israelites. This divine intervention reminds us of God’s unwavering presence and salvation throughout history.
Covenant and Intimacy on the Mountain
Exodus 24 brings us to a profound moment of covenant as Moses, Aaron, and the elders ascend Mount Sinai to meet God. They see His presence, described with vivid imagery of lapis lazuli, and share a covenant meal in His presence—a moment of awe-inspiring intimacy and fellowship.
Word of the Day: Testify
Definition: To “testify” means to bear witness or give evidence, often in a way that points to the truth.
In Exodus, God’s laws, His provision, and His promises all testify to His character and His faithfulness to His people. Similarly, our lives are called to testify to His goodness, reflecting His love and truth to those around us.
Applying God’s Laws and Promises
This journey through Exodus isn’t just ancient history; it’s a timeless call to actively apply God’s laws and promises to our lives. The Latin root of “apply” means to fold or fasten to—signifying that we are invited to integrate God’s truths into the fabric of our daily existence. Just as the blood of the covenant was applied to the people, signifying their acceptance of God’s instructions, we, too, are called to apply the sacrifice of Christ to our lives.
Personal Reflections: Embracing God’s Love
Reflecting on my own journey, I see parallels in my dedication to God at 17 and how we are called to embrace His laws, celebrate His provision, and rely on His promises. My relationship with my adopted children offers another layer of understanding. Some have fully embraced our relationship, while others, hindered by fear and past hurts, hold back and miss out on the fullness of love and family. Similarly, we are invited to let go of fear and fully accept God’s love and sacrifice, allowing us to experience the fullness of His presence.
A Call to Lived Faith
Exodus reminds us to actively apply God’s laws, celebrate His goodness, and trust in His promises. It’s not about passive belief but a lived experience of faith where we fasten ourselves to God, embrace His love, and walk in His salvation daily. Let your life testify to the faithfulness and goodness of our God.
February 9
Exodus 25-28
Building God’s Dwelling Place
Proverbs 1:7 reminds us that “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.” As we delve into the book of Exodus over the next several days, we find God imparting His wisdom and instruction to Moses to construct a holy sanctuary—a dwelling place for Him among His people.
God’s meticulous plans for this sanctuary reflect His nature as a detailed and orderly God. He desires perfection because this is where He will meet with Moses and His people, and He is a holy God. From offerings for the Tabernacle to the plans for the Ark of the Covenant, Table, and Lampstand, every detail matters.
The construction of the Tabernacle and Altar of Burnt Offering follows God’s instructions closely. His people are asked to follow these divine guidelines, just as He communicated them to Moses on the mountain.
As we read about the plans for the Courtyard and Light for the Temple, we are reminded of the importance of paying close attention to detail and being specific in our measurements. The word “must” comes into play, emphasizing the significance of adhering to God’s instructions.
The clothing for the priests, along with the design of the ephod and chestpiece, further demonstrates God’s attention to detail. He instructs the use of two onyx stones engraved with the names of the tribes of Israel, signifying significance and a constant reminder that they are God’s chosen people.
One remarkable aspect of this reading is the concept of “sacred offerings.” God asked His people to provide gold, silver, linen, oil, wood, and more. These were once enslaved individuals, yet God fulfilled His promise to Abraham by allowing them to leave Egypt with great wealth.
This wealth was then used to build God’s holy tabernacle, a stark contrast to the symbols of worship for false gods that they left behind in Egypt—pyramids, statues, idols, and temples. God established worship for Himself, much like cathedrals were built in the Middle Ages to display God’s glory among an illiterate population.
Symbols abound in these pages, particularly in Exodus 27:20-21, where God commands the use of pure olive oil to keep the lamps burning continually. This mirrors the words of Jesus in John 8:12, “I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.”
Word of the Day: Display
Definition: To make a prominent exhibition of something where it can be easily seen.
What was God displaying through these instructions? His glory.
Exodus’s sacred offerings and detailed instructions teach us that offerings to God should come from willing hearts, not mere obligations. It’s not about the type or amount of the gift; it’s about the condition of our hearts when we give. As 2 Corinthians 9:7 emphasizes, we should give cheerfully, for God loves a cheerful giver.
