What does the Bible say about girlfriend before marriage?

Bible Topic · WEB

The Bible encourages romantic relationships to be guided by holy love, wisdom, self-control, and a clear purpose of honoring God rather than pursuing selfish desire. Genesis 2:24 presents marriage as the covenant union in which a man and woman become one flesh, while Hebrews 13:4 calls believers to honor marriage and sexual purity. First Corinthians 13:1-13 describes love as patient, kind, truthful, enduring, and self-giving, not merely emotional attraction. First John 4:1-21 teaches that genuine love flows from God and is tested by truth and obedience. Proverbs 19:2-17 and 20:5-11 commend careful discernment, integrity, and seeking wise counsel. Christians should therefore date with prayerful seriousness, treating one another as neighbors to serve and protect in Christ.