DUI (Dating Under the Influence)

Proverbs 4:23 says, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” It’s an emphatic call for us to be careful. Our mind, will, emotions, desires, and passions… basically the deepest part of our being is represented by our heart. What we think about and what we allow our emotions to center around effect the decisions we make. If we guard our heart, we will be careful to not make unwise decisions that often have painful consequences.

We asked the question, “what are some ways a dating couple can guard their heart”? There are many answers to that question, but often the most obvious (and overlooked) solution is to avoid sexual impurity (and I’m not just talking about intercourse!!). Once a couple opens the door to a physical relationship, their emotions are quickly involved. Unfortunately most relationships center around the physical where decision making becomes emotional rather than rational.

I have a friend who received a DUI that cost him over $10,000 along with his license being revoked. He had to attended a year of classes and have a breathalyzer installed in his car before it would start. It cost him a lot of time and money. Obviously driving a car while under the influence of alcohol is extremely dangerous, and that’s why there are steep laws to discourage people from being irresponsible.

Just like drinking and operating a fast-moving vehicle is dangerous, being in a relationship “under the influence” of heightened emotions (because of unhealthy physical boundaries) is also dangerous. Breakups, regret, shame, and remorse is painful. Dating couples that are involved sexually are connected emotionally in a way that God never intended for two people who are not married. When the emotions get that involved, couples often head towards marriage based on feelings rather than on seeking if God is in it. Often times when those feelings fade and the sexual excitement wears off, divorce ensues. After accepting Christ, marriage is the second most impactful decision a person can make, so why not take careful measures to avoid that which leads to unhealthy emotional attachments?! Yes, above all else, guard your heart… and avoid getting caught up physically in your dating relationships.

~AF