Dating 101: A Guide to Dating Well

In this episode, Chris and Alisa Grace explore what it really means to date well—approaching relationships with intentionality, emotional health, and biblical wisdom. They discuss the purpose of dating, the importance of aligning your faith, assessing red and green flags, and the role of spiritual discernment and emotional maturity in building healthy connections. You’ll also hear practical tips on navigating compatibility, understanding personality traits, and seeking input from trusted community members. Whether you're single, newly dating, or looking to strengthen your approach to relationships, this episode offers valuable, no-fluff guidance to help you date in a way that honors God, protects your heart, and sets the stage for a healthy future.

Resources Mentioned:

• Gary Thomas – Sacred Marriage – A book exploring how marriage is designed to make us holy more than happy. https://www.garythomas.com/sacred-marriage/
• Big Five Personality Test – A research-backed tool for understanding key personality traits in yourself and others. https://www.outofservice.com/bigfive
• The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse – Gottman Institute resource on the four destructive communication patterns to watch for in relationships. https://www.gottman.com/blog/the-four-horsemen-recognizing-criticism-contempt-defensiveness-and-stonewalling/
  
  

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• Website: cmr.biola.edu
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• YouTube: www.youtube.com/@biola-cmr

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About the Hosts:

Chris Grace, Ph.D., and Alisa Grace are passionate about helping people build and sustain healthy relationships. As leaders of the Biola University Center for Marriage and Relationships, they combine the wisdom of Scripture with scholarly research to offer practical advice and insights. Learn more about their work at cmr.biola.edu.