3 Gospel Principles to Help Guide You on Dating Apps

Honesty is an amazing first impression, and it’s a strong foundation for an eternal marriage.

Sister Ann M. Dibb, former Second Counselor in the Young Women General Presidency, taught: “When we are honest in all things, big and small, we experience peace of mind and a clear conscience. Our relationships are enriched because they are based on trust. And the greatest blessing that comes from being honest is that we are able to have the companionship of the Holy Ghost.”

It is important to be honest in your profile and interactions with others. Here are a few ways you can be honest:

• Show real, current photos of yourself.

• Be honest about your age.

• If you aren’t interested in someone, be truthful instead of ghosting them or leading them on.

• Don’t lie about your education, height, etc. When you are honest about yourself, your date will appreciate that they can trust you.

Be open and willing to get to know different people. There are so many more important things than physical appearance and attraction. You may end up having a great time with someone you wouldn’t normally swipe on. Focus on spiritual qualities, shared values, and how they treat you (and others!).

Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles said, “In God’s plan of happiness, we are not so much looking for someone perfect but for a person with whom, throughout a lifetime, we can join efforts to create a loving, lasting, and more perfect relationship.”

Give people a chance. You may be drawn to someone you didn’t expect! My husband actually didn’t fit the exact mold of what I thought I wanted. I figured I would marry an extrovert like myself, but instead, I married an introvert. Gavin is gifted with patience, levelheadedness, and a calm presence; He balances me.

Keep an open mind and heart—you never know who you might click with.

While dating apps are helpful, there are safety precautions to consider.

I went on a few dates that left me feeling uneasy. Once I even had a pit in my stomach before I went out, and I felt that I should cancel; however, I was afraid of hurting my date’s feelings, so I went anyway.

It was soon clear that this man did not respect my boundaries. He made comments that made me feel uncomfortable, and I wished I had listened to the prompting I had received to cancel the date.

If you feel unsafe or uncomfortable with anyone, it is OK to leave early or to cancel the date. Be in tune with the Spirit and be willing to follow revelation you receive.

Here are some ways you can ensure safety on your date:

• Meet in a public place instead of having a date pick you up from your home.

• Let someone know where you will be going and how long you will be gone.

• Have a friend you can contact if you find yourself in a dangerous situation.

Trusting the Spirit can also mean knowing if you should continue a relationship. While it is kind to consider others’ feelings, it is unwise to compromise your personal revelation because of guilt.

If you feel like trying a dating app would be a good way for you to meet people, know that everyone’s experience will be different. Perhaps you’ll find your eternal companion. Or you might learn to better navigate relationships and get out of your comfort zone.

No matter what happens, God loves you. He knows your heart. Sister Joy D. Jones, former Primary General President, said: “The Lord loves effort, and effort brings rewards. We keep practicing. We are always progressing as long as we are striving to follow the Lord.”

Dating through apps can be hard, but when used righteously, they can connect you with good people. Blessings will come to you as you live these gospel principles and do your best to be Christlike as you search for your eternal companion.