Marriage is a beautiful, God-ordained institution, and for many Christians, it’s one of the most significant milestones in life. But in today’s fast-paced world, a lingering question remains: Are Christians too quick to get married? This question often arises within Christian circles, especially among singles who are actively seeking a God-honoring relationship. While the desire for marriage is natural and good, it’s worth considering whether the journey toward the altar is being rushed.

The Pressure to Marry Quickly

Many Christians feel an unspoken (or sometimes very vocal) pressure to marry early. Whether it’s from family, church communities, or cultural expectations, the pressure can be intense. Well-meaning friends and mentors might ask, “So, when are you getting married?” or remind you that “it’s better to marry than to burn with passion” (1 Corinthians 7:9).

However, external pressure should never be the driving force behind such a life-altering decision. Marriage is a lifelong covenant, and it requires more than just readiness—it requires maturity, compatibility, and most importantly, God’s timing.

20 Considerations Before Saying “I Do”

1. Do you have a solid foundation in Christ? Your relationship with God should be the cornerstone of any romantic relationship.
2. Are you pursuing marriage for the right reasons? Make sure it’s not just to escape loneliness, pressure, or societal expectations. Or because you feel under-valued as a single.
3. Have you sought God’s guidance? Prayer and seeking God’s wisdom should always precede a decision this significant.
4. Do you know your own identity in Christ? Before merging your life with another, ensure you have a strong sense of self.
5. Have you taken time to develop emotionally? Emotional maturity is crucial for handling the challenges of marriage.
6. Are your expectations realistic? Love is wonderful, but marriage involves hard work, sacrifice, and compromise.
7. Have you built a friendship first? The strongest marriages are often rooted in deep friendship.
8. Do you share core values and beliefs? Differences in faith and core values can lead to significant struggles down the line.
9. Have you experienced different seasons of life together? Seeing each other in various situations helps assess compatibility.
10. Are you financially prepared? Financial stress is one of the leading causes of marital tension.

More considerations

11. Do you have wise counsel? Surround yourself with mentors and accountability partners who can offer godly advice.
12. Are you prepared for conflict resolution? Disagreements are inevitable; learning healthy conflict resolution is essential.
13. Are you attracted to their character, not just their appearance? Physical attraction fades, but character endures.
14. Have you discussed future goals and expectations? Differences in vision for the future can cause division.
15. Are you both committed to personal growth? A successful marriage requires continuous growth and improvement.
16. Do you understand the biblical purpose of marriage? It’s not just about happiness; it’s about reflecting Christ’s love.
17. Are you comfortable with their family dynamics? Marriage includes families, and family dynamics play a role.
18. Have you considered practical compatibility? Lifestyles, habits, and personality types should complement each other.
19. Are you open to God’s timing, even if it’s different from yours? Rushing ahead of God’s plan can lead to heartache.
20. Have you used the right resources to meet like-minded believers? Consider using Christian dating apps like SALT, which helps connect singles who share a commitment to their faith.

The Importance of Waiting on God

Waiting on God doesn’t mean sitting idly by. It means using this season to grow in your faith, develop your gifts, and become the person God created you to be. Singleness isn’t a waiting room—it’s a valuable time to deepen your relationship with Christ and serve in ways you might not be able to once married.

Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us to “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” Trusting God’s plan, even if it means waiting longer than you expected, will ultimately lead to the best outcome.

The Role of Christian Dating Apps

In today’s digital age, many Christian singles are finding meaningful connections through dating platforms like SALT. SALT provides a safe space to meet other Christians who share similar values and faith journeys. It offers an intentional way to connect with others while staying grounded in biblical principles.

Using Christian dating apps can help facilitate God-centered connections while ensuring that faith remains at the forefront of your relationship journey. However, it’s crucial to approach these platforms prayerfully and with discernment.

Final Thoughts

While the desire for marriage is a beautiful and God-given one, it’s important not to rush into it. Taking the time to reflect, pray, and seek wise counsel ensures that when the time comes, you’re stepping into marriage with confidence and clarity. Remember, God’s timing is perfect, and He knows what’s best for you.

Instead of asking, “Am I getting married soon enough?” perhaps a better question is, “Am I becoming the person God wants me to be?” Focus on growing in your faith and trusting that God will bring the right person at the right time.

If you’re looking to meet like-minded believers in a Christ-centered way, platforms like SALT can be a great place to start your journey. But above all, rest in the truth that God’s plan is always worth the wait.