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MM: After 12 Months: Commitment or Closure?

with

JJ Tomlin

Today, JJ Tomlin tackles the choice: get married or break up after dating a while. Tune in for some candid and wise advice!

Introduction

Hey Heart of Dating fam! It’s JJ Tomlin here, ready to tackle a topic that's been weighing on my heart. We're diving into the essential question: Is it time to get married or break up? Whether you're young and figuring out life or in a long-term relationship, this discussion is crucial. So, let’s get real.

Living in Reality: Embracing the Two Outcomes

When you're in a committed relationship, there's only one of two ways it can end—either you’ll get married, or you’ll break up. Many people avoid this conversation for months, sometimes years, living in a fantasy world rather than the reality where God meets us. The point of dating isn’t just to have fun but to seriously evaluate if you’re compatible for life. Skirting around this reality means you're avoiding the truth.

The One-Year Rule: Why It Matters

Experts like Gary Thomas and Dr. John Townsend generally agree—a year is typically enough time to know if you should marry your partner. This timeline is especially important for young adults who face numerous life transitions. If you’re unsure after a year, you probably have your answer. Special circumstances can extend this period, but generally, a year provides enough insight into each other's character and life direction.

Addressing Fears: The “What Ifs”

Several fears keep us from making that crucial decision:

1. Fear of Missing Out: Thinking someone better might come along is a major stumbling block. This mindset will plague any relationship you enter and needs to be tackled head-on.

2. Hoping They’ll Change: Don’t expect marriage to change someone who hasn’t shown growth during dating. Lack of change now likely means no change in the future.

3. Staying for Comfort: Remaining in a relationship just to avoid heartbreak or loneliness keeps you in a state of limbo. It’s crucial to seek clarity and direction.

Practical Steps: Key Questions to Ask Yourself

If you're struggling with the decision, consider these critical questions:

What scares you about this process? Is it the fear of missing out or something else? Understanding this fear is essential.

Are you staying out of comfort? If your relationship lacks direction and you're avoiding discomfort, reconsider your choices.

What would make you act? Identify triggers that could push you towards a decision, whether it's advice from a counselor or a significant change in your partner.

Conclusion: Clarity in Decision-Making

Friends, it's time to stop playing house. Either get married or break up. Living in limbo isn’t healthy for either party. God’s reality is where He meets us and guides us. Face the gravity of your relationship and make a wise, spirit-led decision.

Thanks for tuning in. I hope these insights help you navigate your relationships with wisdom and clarity. Love you all, and until next time, stay connected to the Spirit and live in reality!

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JJ Tomlin

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JJ Tomlin is a missionary kid born in Belgium, originally from Tennessee, and currently residing in the OC. He currently works in Gaming/E-Commerce, enjoys watching his Tennessee Titans on Sundays with his Goldendoodle Teddy and loves working with Christian men to raise the bar in singleness and dating.


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