Romance can make a relationship exciting, but friendship helps two people build a life together. Marriage includes celebrations and special moments, but it also includes ordinary days, responsibilities, disappointments and decisions that must be made together.
Learn to enjoy each other’s company
Spend time talking, laughing, learning and serving together. You do not need expensive dates to build a connection. A walk, a thoughtful conversation or working on a simple project can reveal how you relate to each other.
Friendship helps you discover whether you enjoy the person beyond the excitement of attraction.
Practise honest communication
Talk about your hopes, fears, family backgrounds and expectations. Ask questions instead of assuming you already know what the other person thinks. Listen to understand, not only to prepare your reply.
James 1:19 says to be “swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath” (KJV). This principle can help couples slow down, listen carefully and respond with respect.
Build trust through consistency
Trust grows when words and actions match over time. Keep your commitments, tell the truth and address misunderstandings instead of hiding them. If you make a mistake, take responsibility and work to repair the damage.
Respect boundaries and individuality
A healthy relationship does not require two people to lose their identity. Both people need room for friendships, personal growth, rest and meaningful responsibilities. Agree on boundaries that protect trust and respect each person’s dignity.
Love should not be used to justify controlling behaviour, threats or pressure. A safe relationship allows both people to speak honestly and say no without fear.
Learn how to disagree well
Friendship does not mean you will always agree. It means you can discuss differences without treating each other as enemies. Avoid insults, public humiliation and bringing up old mistakes to win an argument. If a conversation becomes heated, take a respectful pause and return to it when both of you can listen.
Five ways to strengthen friendship while dating
- Have one honest conversation each week about something important.
- Ask what makes the other person feel respected and understood.
- Spend time together in ordinary, low-pressure settings.
- Notice and appreciate acts of kindness.
- Discuss disagreements calmly and apologise when necessary.
Do not rush through friendship just to reach a wedding date. Take time to know the person, observe their character and build a connection that can withstand more than the excitement of a new relationship.
By Apostle Levi Mahemu | BCICHURCH