DIFFERENT: Chapter 7
DIFFERENT: Dating Differently | Stop Looking for the Right One. Start Becoming the Right One
What does it actually look like to date as a follower of Jesus in 2026?
With dating apps, social media, endless options, situationships, chemistry, pressure and competing messages about relationships, dating can become confusing quickly.
And for some people, this conversation carries pain.
Perhaps you’ve experienced rejection or heartbreak. Maybe you’re divorced, widowed, waiting longer than you expected, wondering whether the person you’re dating is healthy—or genuinely called to a life of singleness.
This message is for you too.
In Chapter 7 of DIFFERENT, Pastor Abe explores the beautiful story of Ruth and Boaz and one central idea:
DATING DIFFERENTLY IS LESS ABOUT FINDING THE RIGHT ONE AND MORE ABOUT BECOMING THE RIGHT ONE.
Ruth was faithful before Boaz arrived. Boaz was honourable before Ruth arrived. Their character existed before their relationship did.
Together we’ll explore seven biblical principles for dating differently:
Dating Differently starts with character.
Pay attention to how someone treats people.
Healthy relationships create safety, not pressure.
Dating Differently has boundaries.
Don’t confuse chemistry with calling or character.
Invite healthy community into the process.
Refuse to make marriage an idol.
We’ll also get very practical about dating in 2026: discerning character, recognizing red flags, sexual boundaries, conflict, consistency, community, and why you should never date potential while ignoring patterns.
But perhaps most importantly, we’ll celebrate the truth that singleness is not God’s waiting room. Your purpose doesn’t require a wedding ring, and your life doesn’t begin when another person chooses you. Jesus already has.
So instead of only praying:
“Jesus, send me somebody.”
Perhaps there is an even better prayer:
“Jesus, form me.”
❤️ Don’t spend your life desperately trying to find the right one. Give Jesus permission to keep shaping you into the right one.