Dating is hard. Recognizing whom you’ve found and when you’ve found him can be confusing. It also brings all sorts of doubt: Do I like this person? Do I love this person? Where is this relationship going? Where do I want it to go?

When my fiancé, Tim, and I began dating, I had many questions about my feelings and God’s intentions for our relationship. God’s Word provided guidance during this time. Through various Scripture passages, especially the Old Testament prophets, I found reassurance. Isaiah 46:11, in particular, calmed my questions: “What I have said; that I will bring about; what I have planned; that I will do.”

Scripture is Personal

Reading the Bible can feel unfruitful and downright confusing sometimes. But Isaiah 55:11 tells us that reading Scripture is never unproductive. God’s Word transcends time and circumstance. In the three years we’ve dated, Tim and I have only spent a brief time living near each other.

Sometimes, he was in Colorado, and I was in Pennsylvania. Or I was in France, and he was in Colorado. Or he was in Cambodia, and I was in Pennsylvania. Or we were both in Pennsylvania, with just a short 100-mile stretch between us! Anyone who has been in a long distance relationship knows how trying this can be.

But Scripture strengthened us when we were together and when we were apart. It reminded us that our relationship with God is the most important denominator we share. Even though we were apart for much of our dating life, Scripture connected us on a deep level and still does.

It also informs our behavior. When Tim and I are at odds—and even when we aren’t—I often pray the words of Galatians 5:22: “But the spirit produces love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, humility and self control.”

Praying this verse keeps these virtues ever in front of me, even when they feel out of reach.

Scripture is Applicable

In a few weeks, Tim and I will be married. Wedding preparations are in full bloom, and it’s easy to get caught up in the day. But we have to be mindful of God’s purpose for our coming together in holy union. The Bible is full of verses that explain this.

Scripture not only tells us to love each other (1 Peter 4:8) but also how that love should be expressed: “Love is patient and kind; it is not jealous or conceited or proud; love is not ill-mannered or selfish; love does not keep a record of wrongs; … love is happy with the truth. Love never gives up; and its faith, hope and patience never fail.” 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 (CEV)

Scripture always accomplishes its purpose. Sometimes, it brings peace and reassurance. Other times, it binds the hearts and minds of people as they discuss it, explore it and read words that speak directly to their hearts.

In my relationship with Tim, Scripture has laid the foundation for our lives together. It has brought us peace in the past, been our guide in the present and will strengthen us in the future.