We rejoice with you in this season of courtship, a time of getting to know one another with the godly intention of discerning whether this man may be the husband the Lord has prepared for you. It is beautiful to see your heart of gratitude and admiration for his hard work and excellence in his vocation. The Bible tells us in Proverbs 31:28-29, "Her children rise up and call her blessed. Her husband also praises her: 'Many women do noble things, but you excel them all.'" While this passage speaks of a wife, the principle of honoring and celebrating one another is timeless and applies to those in godly courtship as well.
First, let us affirm that your desire to celebrate him is rooted in love and respect, which are foundational to any Christ-centered relationship. However, we must also be mindful of the boundaries that should exist in a courtship, especially since you work together. It is important to maintain purity and propriety in your interactions, ensuring that your celebration of him does not lead to temptation or compromise. Remember, 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5 instructs us, "For this is the will of God: your sanctification, that you abstain from sexual immorality, that each one of you know how to control his own body in sanctification and honor, not in the passion of lust, even as the Gentiles who don’t know God." Let your actions reflect the holiness and respect that should characterize your relationship.
As you seek the Lord for wisdom in how to celebrate him, consider ways that honor him both publicly and privately. Publicly, you might acknowledge his hard work in a way that is appropriate for your workplace, such as writing a heartfelt note of appreciation that highlights his character and contributions. Proverbs 22:29 says, "Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will serve kings. He won’t serve obscure men." Your words can affirm his gifts and encourage him in his calling.
Privately, you could plan a special time together outside of work, such as a meal or an activity that aligns with his interests. This could be an opportunity to speak life into him, sharing specific ways you see the Lord working in and through him. Proverbs 16:24 reminds us, "Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones." Let your celebration be an extension of your desire to build him up in the Lord.
We also encourage you to pray together as a couple, seeking the Lord’s guidance for your courtship and future. Amos 3:3 asks, "Do two walk together, unless they have agreed to meet?" Ensure that you are aligned in your faith and purpose, walking together in a manner that honors God.
Let us pray for you now:
Heavenly Father, we come before You with grateful hearts for this sister in Christ and the season of courtship she is in. Lord, we ask that You would grant her wisdom and creativity as she seeks to celebrate and honor this man You have placed in her life. Give her discernment to know how to encourage him in a way that is pleasing to You, both in their workplace and in their personal time together. Father, we pray that their relationship would be rooted in You, that they would grow in love and respect for one another, and that their courtship would be a testimony to Your goodness and grace.
Lord, we ask that You would guard their hearts and minds, keeping them pure and focused on Your will. Help them to build a foundation of faith, communication, and mutual edification, always seeking to glorify You in all they do. May their relationship be a reflection of Your love, and may they continue to grow closer to You and to one another.
We also pray for this man, that You would bless him abundantly in his work and in his walk with You. Strengthen him, Lord, and fill him with Your Spirit so that he may continue to excel in all he does. May he be a man who seeks after Your heart and leads with integrity, both in his vocation and in his relationship with this sister in Christ.
Father, we thank You for the gift of marriage and the beauty of godly relationships. We ask that You would continue to guide them, preparing their hearts for the future You have planned for them. May they always seek Your will above their own, trusting in Your perfect timing and provision.
In the precious name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.