[OctaviusIII]

Okay, so I'm getting into my first actual, real, true dating relationship. I've had relationships in the past, but none have been dating, just committed (but that's another story). Anyway, I'm encountering a couple of terms that I've heard before but never really had to deal with. How do you define the following and why is it a good or bad thing:

Guarding Your Heart

Taking It Slow (also, how do you, individually, do this?)

Thanks in advance!

[bobthecockroach]

Originally Posted by OctaviusIII

Guarding Your Heart

Comes from:

Proverbs 4:23
Above all else, guard your heart,
for it is the wellspring of life.

As far as I can tell, though, it has absolutely nothing to do with dating.

The idea behind the phrase though is to not "give away your heart," or allow yourself to become emotionally attached, easily.

Taking It Slow (also, how do you, individually, do this?)

Not "moving to the next level" too quickly.

Thanks in advance!

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[Nomes]

Hey Octavius,

I disgree with Bob a little, but only on a technicality ( ) The verse from Proberbs is not refering to dating specifically, no. But it isn't excluding it either. It's a general instruction.

Basically, it means don't run head-on into anything because of emotion. Buying a house is a bad idea if you only see it from the outside and think the paint-job is to die for but haven't seen the inside or even thought if you can afford it.

Actually, if I could go off on a slight tangent regarding that verse. Check out the verses surrounding...

Proverbs 4:20-27
20 My son, pay attention to what I say;
listen closely to my words.
21 Do not let them out of your sight,
keep them within your heart;
22 for they are life to those who find them
and health to a man's whole body.
23 Above all else, guard your heart,
for it is the wellspring of life.
24 Put away perversity from your mouth;
keep corrupt talk far from your lips.
25 Let your eyes look straight ahead,
fix your gaze directly before you.
26 Make level paths for your feet
and take only ways that are firm.
27 Do not swerve to the right or the left;
keep your foot from evil.

This is good advice from Proverbs, for us all, and not only in reference to relationships, but everyday life. Keep your head. Act in Godly wisdom. Don't be destracted from your goal.

As to taking it slow. You'll need to discuss this with your lady-friend ( ). The two of you need to work out what your plan for that is. And your expectations. Perhaps you might limit the amount of times you see eachother each week or phonecalls - my husband and I did this when we were dating. Set physical boundaries that you've discussed and both feel comfortable with. Decide to spend time together only in the presence of others (family, friends, youth/church). That sort of thing...