“You shall not commit adultery.” – Exodus 20:14
The Importance of Commitment
When we think about dating a married man, we should first reflect on the essence of commitment portrayed in the Bible. Marriage is a sacred union established by God, and it involves a promise to love and honor one another. In our hearts, we must recognize that to engage in a relationship with someone already committed to another is to undermine that commitment. Let us remember how important it is to respect the vows that couples have made before God, and to uphold the sanctity of marriage.
Hebrews 13:4
“Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral.” – Hebrews 13:4
Proverbs 6:32
“But a man who commits adultery has no sense; whoever does so destroys himself.” – Proverbs 6:32
1 Corinthians 7:2
“But since sexual immorality is occurring, each man should have sexual relations with his own wife, and each woman with her own husband.” – 1 Corinthians 7:2
Malachi 2:16
“The man who hates and divorces his wife, says the Lord, the God of Israel, does violence to the one he should protect.” – Malachi 2:16
Matthew 5:28
“But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.” – Matthew 5:28
The Consequences of Adultery
Adultery is warned against frequently throughout scripture for a good reason. The emotional and spiritual fallout can be devastating—for not only those involved but for families and communities as well. As we strive to live in accordance with biblical teachings, we must be aware that pursuing a relationship with a married man can lead us into a painful path filled with regret. God’s Word encourages us to evaluate our actions and their potential consequences on ourselves and others.
Proverbs 7:25
“Do not let your heart turn to her ways or stray into her paths.” – Proverbs 7:25
Galatians 6:7
“Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.” – Galatians 6:7
Proverbs 5:3
“For the lips of the adulterous woman drip honey, and her speech is smoother than oil.” – Proverbs 5:3
Psalms 51:10
“Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” – Psalms 51:10
Proverbs 9:18
“But little do they know that the dead are there, that her guests are deep in the realm of the dead.” – Proverbs 9:18
The Call to Purity
Our journey as Christians comes with a call to purity in our thoughts, actions, and relationships. God urges us to uphold moral standards that reflect our faith. Engaging in relationships outside the bonds of marriage not only affects us personally but can lead to a ripple effect of hurt to those around us. Let us seek to honor God through our choices and aim to cultivate relationships that are built on trust and mutual respect, as exemplified through His Word.
1 Thessalonians 4:3
“It is God’s will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality.” – 1 Thessalonians 4:3
1 Timothy 5:22
“Do not be hasty in the laying on of hands, and do not share in the sins of others. Keep yourself pure.” – 1 Timothy 5:22
Ephesians 5:3
“But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people.” – Ephesians 5:3
Colossians 3:5
“Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry.” – Colossians 3:5
Philippians 4:8
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” – Philippians 4:8
Effective communication is crucial to all relationships, and this includes our romantic pursuits. When we engage with those who are married, it can lead to a web of complexities that compromise our morals and beliefs. It is essential for us to communicate with integrity, honesty, and clarity. When we recognize the need for open and truthful communication, we establish better foundations based on trust, and we can better navigate the challenges of relationships while honoring God’s word.
James 1:19
“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” – James 1:19
Proverbs 20:19
“A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid anyone who talks too much.” – Proverbs 20:19
Proverbs 15:1
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” – Proverbs 15:1
Colossians 4:6
“Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” – Colossians 4:6
Ephesians 4:29
“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” – Ephesians 4:29
The Value of Self-Worth
Understanding our value is essential in every aspect of our lives, and it directly influences the choices we make regarding relationships. When we remember that we are created in the image of God, we realize that we deserve love and respect without compromising our morals. Choosing to engage in a relationship with a married man often stems from a lack of self-worth. We should focus on nurturing our relationships that uplift us and lead to fulfillment without sacrificing our values.
1 Peter 2:9
“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” – 1 Peter 2:9
Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11
Psalm 139:14
“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” – Psalm 139:14
Ephesians 2:10
“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” – Ephesians 2:10
Isaiah 43:4
“Since you are precious and honored in my sight, and because I love you, I will give people in exchange for you, nations in exchange for your life.” – Isaiah 43:4
Seeking God’s Guidance
When faced with difficult decisions about relationships, it is crucial for us to seek God’s guidance. Turning to prayer and scripture can provide clarity and direction. God desires for each of us to choose paths that honor Him, and He will always guide us when we earnestly seek His wisdom. By leaning into God’s Word, we not only protect ourselves from heartache but also align ourselves with His purpose and plan for our lives.
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.” – Proverbs 3:5-6
James 1:5
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” – James 1:5
Psalms 25:4
“Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths.” – Psalms 25:4
Matthew 7:7
“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.” – Matthew 7:7
Isaiah 30:21
“Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it.’” – Isaiah 30:21
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on the choice to date a married man, it’s clear that we face challenges that can compromise our values and self-worth. The Bible reminds us of the sanctity of marriage and the importance of commitment, helping us see that relationships should be built on a foundation of integrity and respect.
We can protect ourselves from heartache and regret by prioritizing purity and effective communication, seeking guidance from God’s Word along the way. As we focus on God’s will, we learn to appreciate our worth more deeply, understanding that we are deserving of true love that doesn’t come with complications.
Dear friends, if you want to learn more about recognizing lies and deceitful behaviors, check out some insightful verses in this article about liars and cheaters, or explore what it means to step away from unhealthy relationships in the discussion on leaving a bad relationship. With God’s guidance, we can always choose the right path.