
Seventhseed: How would you explain to your fans and readers the difference between dating and courtship?
I think the best explanation I've heard is from Dr. Raunikar, author of Choosing Gods Best he explains, "When a couple begins a courting relationship, they both know the purpose of the relationship is to consider marriage. Conversely, casual dating is a romantic linking of a couple simply to enjoy other's company for the present. In dating, both parties understand that while marriage may be possible in the future, neither person is seriously considering it at the moment. As a result, immediate pleasure is the whole purpose of dating. Courting has a long term end in view. There are no "casual tryouts" in courtship and it is reserved for couples spiritually and emotionally ready for marriage."
I think that a lot of times courtship gets misrepresented because there are so many books on the subject written from a pretty legalistic point of view. I believe you need to look at your own weaknesses honestly, pray about it and make boundaries that are realistic and not just for show, but are effective in protecting your heart.