How to Get a Date Worth Keeping Author: Dr. Henry CloudSuch insightI must honestly say that this book revolutionized my outlook on dating. Unlike other books written about dating by Christian authors, Cloud acknowledges the workings of the human mind throughout the book, a true benefit of his psychological knowledge. He raises all completely valid points, the most eye-opening of which for me was, an analogy of Tiger Woods. It read something to the effect of, "Tiger Woods had the goal of winning more major tournaments than any golfer in history. What if he would have said, 'The only tournaments I will play in will be major tournaments'? That's absurd. So why do people insist on dating only people they see themselves marrying?" That really hit home for me, because for so long I fell into the trap of thinking that dating is about marriage, when Cloud points out that it is about meeting new and interesting people, having fun, and learning much more about yourself in the unique environment which dating alone can provide. I wholeheartedly recommend this book for any single person, Christian or not.

Unlike a lot of other dating books I've read, Cloud's philosophies actually make logical and practical sense versus those of other authors (ie: "I Kissed Dating Goodbye"). I really cannot say enough good about this book, nor adequately summarize the profound truths therein. It is an easy read, entertaining, and eye-opening. You will not regret taking the time to read this book.Good Book/Not so good Book~Still love the authors though!I've read many of the New Life Guys' books and they have been a big part of my own growth in the past several years.

This book, however, wasn't one of the best and quite frankly, even though everyone seems to sing its praises, I don't think most single Christians really think about the implications behind the basic concepts of the book.

Of course as a leader of a singles ministry I wholly affirm Cloud's idea of contentedness in Jesus FIRST,(Matthew 6:33 ('seek first the kingdom of God, and all these things will be added unto you'), that of course you can't stay in your home & wait for the fedex man, that your traffic patterns must be changed, that internet dating for many people is the way to go, etc etc etc....

I, too, can be a disgruntled single Christian woman wondering where all the decent, Christlike single men are! LOL. I also feel for the Christian men who feel the same way...

BUT I can't help but wonder what Jesus would tell us (since the Bible never clearly addresses the issue of 'dating' in itself) about all this 'casual' dating, breaking hearts, giving others the wrong idea, and generally treating dating so lightly. So, can't we just call it... FRIENDING?? or building strong friendships that would LEAD to dating relationships??

It takes a very strong grounded, emotionally healthy person of character to be able to be clear on what their expectations are of a person in a dating relationship.
Do you know of a single Christian who is willing to wait for the best God has for them? OR are they all very anxious to date and be married and have kids, no matter what the cost?

Not to mention, WHY would Cloud (still dig ya!)even suggest dating someone who's not living for Christ? Again, in my experience, why risk it? Why risk becoming involved/attracted to someone who can weigh you down spiritually? Believe me, IT WILL. It did for me. Several times!

Heck, even Solomon experienced this: "Solomon was old, that his wives turned away his heart after other gods: and his heart was not perfect with the LORD his God, as was the heart of David his father." (I Kings 11:1-4)

Our world, and even many of our churches, say that having a romantic love in our lives is a must, even if the "pickings" are slim. Wisdom says that we reserve the affections of our heart only for one whose commitment to the Lord and keeping His Word matches our own.

Sound hardcore? Try long-term relationships w/nonbelievers who you hope will become spiritually stronger. THAT'll mess you up.

All I'm sayin is don't settle. God has your back. The book has some good basic concepts. Definitely don't expect that he will bring the person to your doorstep. But don't treat dating so lightly either. Wow ... Permission to Go on an Endless Dating BonanzaI loved this book! My girlfriend gave it to me on Valentine's Day and wow ... it was brilliant! Values-oriented dating is wonderful and there truly are plenty of fish out there - just go on the site. Honestly... dating that is light and innocent and with these principles in mind can be a positive learning experience. Stay true to your values and never settle. more...


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