Navigating relationships as a Christian single can sometimes feel like walking a tightrope. We want to honor God in every decision, yet the path isn’t always clear. Whether you’re longing for marriage, healing from past relationships, what qualities to look for in a Christian spouse, or striving to grow in faith during this season, the right resources can make a significant difference. Books written by wise and experienced Christian authors can serve as trusted guides, helping you navigate the complexities of relationships with grace and biblical truth. Here are some of the best books for Christian singles about relationships, curated with your spiritual growth and relational success in mind.

Why Good Books Matter for Christian Singles

If you’re like me, you’ve probably had moments where you wished you had a mentor sitting across the table, giving you godly advice about relationships. That’s what a good book can be. It’s like having a mentor who’s been there, done that, and prayerfully written down what they’ve learned. Books allow us to learn from others’ experiences, avoid common pitfalls, and grow in wisdom without having to reinvent the wheel.

The Bible remains the ultimate guide for our lives, but God often uses supplemental resources to provide practical application for His truths. With that in mind, let’s dive into some standout books that can help you on your journey.

The SALT YouTube channel also hopes to serve as that mentor or friend to walk the single Christian journey with you.

Rae gives her suggestions of the books to read before you get married, even in singleness

Best Books for Christian Singles About Relationships

1. “The Sacred Search” by Gary Thomas

If you’ve ever wondered, “What should I really be looking for in a spouse?” this book is for you. Gary Thomas challenges singles to stop asking “Who do I want to marry?” and start asking, “Why do I want to get married?” He emphasizes the importance of aligning your heart with God’s purposes and focusing on a marriage that furthers His kingdom. Practical, biblical, and deeply encouraging, this book will shift your perspective on dating and marriage.

Personal Takeaway

When I read this book, I realized I had been overvaluing superficial qualities in potential partners. It reminded me to focus on shared values and a vision for serving God together.

2. “Boundaries in Dating” by Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend

Dating without clear boundaries can lead to unnecessary heartache and confusion. Cloud and Townsend apply biblical principles to modern dating, offering advice on everything from handling conflict to avoiding toxic relationships. Their practical tips on establishing emotional and physical boundaries are a must-read for anyone navigating the dating world.

Why This Matters

Setting boundaries isn’t about limiting your freedom; it’s about protecting your heart so you can love well. If you’ve ever struggled with knowing where to draw the line, this book is a game-changer. Read more about Christian dating boundaries.

3. “Not Yet Married” by Marshall Segal

Written for those in the season of singleness, this book isn’t just about finding the right person—it’s about becoming the right person. Segal encourages readers to live fully for God in the here and now rather than putting life on hold until marriage. With heartfelt honesty and biblical wisdom, he paints singleness as a season rich with purpose.

Personal Story

After finishing this book, I began to see my singleness not as a waiting room but as a workshop where God was shaping me for His glory. It’s a perspective that completely transformed how I approached relationships.

open book

4. “Single, Dating, Engaged, Married” by Ben Stuart

This book provides a roadmap for every stage of a relationship, starting with singleness. Stuart breaks down each phase, offering practical advice and biblical insights tailored to each stage. Whether you’re single or in a relationship, this book will help you honor God in your current season while preparing for the next.

5. “Choosing God’s Best” by Dr. Don Raunikar

Raunikar advocates for a courtship approach to dating, rooted in intentionality and Christ-centered principles. This book challenges the casual dating culture and encourages singles to prayerfully seek God’s direction in their romantic pursuits. It’s a thought-provoking read that will inspire you to trust God with your love life.

Practical Tips for Applying What You Learn

Reading is just the beginning. To truly benefit from these books, you need to put their wisdom into action. Here are some practical steps:

  • Journal your reflections. Write down key takeaways and how they apply to your life.
  • Pray through the principles. Ask God to help you implement what you’re learning.
  • Discuss with friends. Join a book club or study group to deepen your understanding and accountability.

A Modern Tool for Christian Singles

In today’s digital world, finding like-minded believers to connect with can be challenging. That’s where Christian dating apps like SALT come in. SALT is a global Christian dating app designed for Bible-believing singles who want to build meaningful, Christ-centered relationships. With its emphasis on shared faith and values, it’s a natural extension of the principles found in these books.

I’ve personally seen friends use SALT to meet amazing people who share their love for God and their commitment to living out their faith in relationships. It’s a tool that aligns well with the wisdom you’ll find in these books, offering a practical way to connect with others who are on the same journey. Have a read of the stories of couples who met on SALT.

Final Encouragement

As you explore these books and apply their wisdom, remember that God’s timing is perfect. Whether you’re currently single, dating, or somewhere in between, He is using this season to prepare you for His purposes. Trust Him, seek wisdom, and embrace the journey with faith. After all, the best relationships are built on a foundation of love for Christ, and that’s something worth waiting for.

One response to “What are the best books for Christian singles about relationships?”

  1. Good stuff. The Stuart and Seagall books are fantastic, for sure.

    Some other good ones:

    “Outdated” (Jonathan Pokluda)

    “Party of One” (Joy Beth Smith)

    “Living Whole Without a Better Half” (Wendy Widder)

    “Thrive” (Lina AbuJamra)

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