During a conversation with a 24-year-old lady in our church, I asked about her relationship status after service one Sunday. She responded that she wasn’t ready for marriage yet.

I explained that I was referring to courtship, which often precedes marriage. At her age, she still had some years before considering marriage.

I encouraged her to think about starting a relationship sooner rather than later, especially while she’s young and attracting attention from potential suitors.

In many religious communities, the importance of courtship isn’t always emphasized enough. Young men and women may not realize the time courtship could take into account when considering when to start. In my view, women should begin to consider a good and godly relationship as early as age 20, without rushing into anything. This allows time for discernment and finding the right partner.

In today’s society, many individuals between 20 and 22 years old are already well into their university studies or starting their careers. Considering the possibility of 2-3 years of courtship, getting married around age 25 isn’t too early. Plus, many people don’t marry their first or second partner, so starting early gives room for exploration and learning.

For men, between the ages of 23 and 25 is a good time to start thinking seriously about a relationship. Waiting until later can lead to unnecessary pressure and rushed decisions. It’s important to consider both personal and relationship goals when planning for the future.

Another piece of advice, especially for women, is not to let pride get in the way during their prime years. Being in demand doesn’t last forever, so it’s essential to make thoughtful choices and not dismiss potential partners without consideration. Pride can lead to missed opportunities and regrets later on.

Lastly, it’s crucial to avoid wasting time on indecisive individuals. Giving someone too many years of your life without a clear direction isn’t fair to yourself. Set boundaries and timelines for decisions, and don’t be afraid to move on if necessary. There are plenty of opportunities for meaningful relationships, but time shouldn’t be squandered on uncertainty.

Starting courtship early, staying humble, and being decisive are key factors in finding a fulfilling and lasting relationship.

Don’t let pride or fear hold you back from exploring possibilities, but also be mindful of not investing too much time in situations that aren’t progressing. Trust in the timing of your life journey and be open to what the future may hold.