10 Ways To Develop Pure Christian Relationships

1. 1. Always have standards. Make up your minds about the standards on which you will base your relationship to keep it pure. Do this ahead of time and then stick to it. Decide not to do anything that would dishonour Christ. Do not settle for less than the best.
   2. Always have rules. Colossians 2: 20- 3:17 is a passage that is helpful for setting the right standards and checking your motives in doing so. Read it carefully and prayerfully. Basic bottom line rules are often suggested, for example: never alone in dark or lonely places, never in the dark, never undo any clothing. These are wise rules but Colossians 2:23 warns us that unless our principles are well-founded, “they lack any value in restraining sensual indulgence.” 
   3. Know how to handle advances. Speak firmly but kindly. Say why your standards are what they are. Be clear. Do not be afraid to remove his or her hand or head quietly but definitely and immediately suggest something better to do. Learn to say no and act accordingly.
   4. Watch the clock. One of the best ways to avoid involvement is to keep an eye on the time and get home at a reasonable hour.
   5. Keep control of your thoughts.
   6. Beware of “alone time”. Long periods of Bible study and prayer can be excuses to spend time alone together rather than a time of really meeting the Lord- beware. Avoid being exclusive- the “I want/we want to be alone” idea, cutting out other interests. Go around in groups. Choose your places and activities to increase your love for Christ, your respect for each other and your friendship with others.
   7. Develop self-control in your life now. A person who lacks self-control before marriage is unlikely to be different afterwards.
   8. Keep your dignity- that sense of nobility, worthiness, honour and purity that wonder of being made in the image of God.
   9. “Flee the evil desires of your youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace.” (Timothy 2:22)God’s handbook says FLEE youthful lusts, so don’t go near anyone, read any book or see any film that will make you lustful. But PURSUE- run after- righteousness. As an athlete strives for the finishing line be determined to go for righteousness. Also, be on your guard. “If you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall.” (1 Corinthians 10:12). Complacency could be your greatest stumbling block.
   10. If you have reason to doubt the intentions of your boyfriend or girlfriend, leave him/her. If you keep yourself pure in thought and in deed before marriage, your rewards will be great as you enjoy all the delights of married love that the Lord your Creator has in store for you.

It is as simple as that. We hope this article helped.