5 minutes a day 5 days a week All the New Testament in a year

I'm getting to the age where I'm kind of interested in boys...at what age does the Bible say that it's okay to date?  Does it say?

Sincerely, Older By The Minute

Dear Older By The Minute,

No, the Bible doesn’t say how old you must be to date. The Bible does lay down principles regarding dating or courting. Take a look at our post on dating/courting to see more about that topic.

As far as age is concerned, the Bible doesn’t give a proper age. Everyone differs in maturity and readiness to begin looking for their future spouse. The first rule of thumb is to not rush it. Song of Solomon mentions quite a few times to not speed into the world of romance (Songs 2:7). Ecclesiastes says there is a time for love and to wait for that time (Eccl 3:8). Rushing into romance too early can be disastrous.

God puts children under the authority of parents for just such a reason. Eph 6:1-3 says there is a blessing when children obey their parents. Parents have a keen insight into their children and tend to know what is best for them. You would do well to talk to your parents about the subject (even though it may be difficult or embarrassing for you) and see what they have to say. Godly parents can really make a difference in preparing you for this new aspect of your life. Listen to them and you will be blessed.

When we are told to confess our sins; what all does that entail? Does that just mean confessing to God in prayer, or do I need to be making an effort to tell other christians of all my struggles?

Sincerely, Tongue Tied

We must confess all of our sins to God (1 John 1:9) and be prepared to get help with our faults from other christians (Jas 5:16). When James talks about confessing sins to each other, he is talking in the context of prayer. His point is that when someone prays for you as you struggle with sin, that prayer will make an immense difference. He is not stating that you have to announce every single sin you have ever committed to each and every christian you meet.

There are definitely times to tell another person about your sin.

1. If you have sinned against them, you must admit it and ask for forgiveness (Lk 17:3-4).
2. If you believe the knowledge of your previous sin will help them (1 Tim 1:15-16).
3. If you are struggling with a sin and need help (Jas 5:16, Eccl 4:9).
4. If it would be deceptive to not reveal the sin (1 Jhn 1:8).

All of those situations constitute an appropriate time to confess your sins to another person. God doesn’t call us to parade our past sins before all we meet, but there is a time to own up to our faults before both man and God.

5 minutes a day 5 days a week All the New Testament in a year

5 minutes a day 5 days a week All the New Testament in a year