Now that you are ready to date, how do you get started? In the words of Latteras Whitfield, “Men should pursue and not persuade. Women should present and not pursue.” What does this look like for women?

Throughout history, women have expressed interest in potential suitors in a variety of ways, including the age-old practice of dropping a handkerchief to capture a man's attention. In this blog let's explore the Christian perspective on showing attraction and discover how present-day Christians can approach romantic relationships.

1. Trust God's Design:

In Christian relationships, it is crucial to trust in God's divine design for romance. God created men and women with distinct roles and purposes. As women, we are called to present ourselves with dignity and grace, allowing men to take the lead in pursuing a relationship. However, society often pushes us to take the reins into our own hands to make that connection happen. I believe our femininity is a powerful tool in letting the man know we are open to the possibilities. Some may feel this attitude will lead to being a "trad wife". I've found that this trust in God's design brings harmony and fosters a deeper connection built on faith.

Bible Verse: Proverbs 3:5-6 - "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."

2. Rely on God's Timing:

The belief that the Lord may not come when we want Him to, but he's always on time is the basis of Christian romantic relationships. Instead of pushing or manipulating situations, we are called to wait patiently for God to orchestrate the right timing for a relationship to unfold. By focusing on personal growth and aligning ourselves with God's will, we can cultivate a heart of contentment and readiness. However, faith without works is dead. We have to DO our part.

Bible Verse: Ecclesiastes 3:1 - "There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens."

3. Express Interest with Grace:

While the historical practice of dropping a handkerchief is no longer prevalent in modern times, we can still express interest respectfully and gracefully. By being approachable, friendly, and engaging in meaningful conversations, we can create opportunities for connection without crossing the line of pursuing. This approach demonstrates our genuine interest and allows men to take the lead.

Bible Verse: Colossians 4:6 - "Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt so that you may know how to answer everyone."

What are some modern ways to "Drop Your Handkerchief"?

In today's context, there are concrete ways women can signal their interest to potential suitors without taking on the role of pursuer. Here are a couple:

Show genuine interest by actively listening and engaging in conversations. Ask thoughtful questions, show empathy, and demonstrate a willingness to understand the person you're interested in.
Smile and maintaining eye contact can convey openness and receptiveness. These simple gestures can catch someone's attention and create a positive impression.
Seek opportunities to participate in activities or events where you share common interests. This can create a natural connection and provide a platform for further interaction and potential pursuit.
Demonstrate kindness, support, and encouragement to the person you're interested in. Show that you genuinely care about their well-being and success without crossing the boundaries of pursuit.
Comment and like their posts on social media pages. Show them you are interested in and value what they have to say.

As Christians, it is important to approach romantic relationships with a solid foundation rooted in our faith. Embracing God's design, trusting His timing, expressing interest with grace, and using modern ways of "dropping your handkerchief" can help us initiate relationships that honor God and allow His perfect plan to unfold. By surrendering our desires to Him and following His principles, we can experience the blessings of a Christ-centered and purposeful romantic relationship.

Bible Verse: Psalm 37:4 - "Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart."

Now it's your turn. How do men pursue, women present? How do YOU let someone know you are interested in them? Let me know in the comments your Christian dating tips.