How Can A Christian Control His Emotional Desires While In Romantic Love

For a Christian, controlling emotional desires while in romantic love is a matter of aligning one’s heart, mind, and actions with biblical principles. Romantic love can stir strong emotional desires, but as Christians, we’re called to live with self-control, purity, and love that reflects Christ’s love for the Church. Here are some key strategies for doing so:

1. Ground Yourself in God’s Word

The Bible is a powerful source of guidance in managing emotions and desires. Regularly reading Scripture helps you to stay focused on God’s will and truth, which strengthens your ability to resist temptation and make wise decisions.

• Psalm 119:11 – “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.”
• Romans 12:2 – “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”

By immersing yourself in God’s Word, you’re better equipped to discern between healthy, godly desires and selfish, sinful ones.

2. Recognize the Role of Emotions in Relationships

Emotions, including romantic attraction, are a natural part of being human. However, they should not be the sole motivator for your decisions. Emotional desires need to be kept in check by the wisdom of God’s word, prayer, and self-control.

• Proverbs 4:23 – “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”

Recognizing that emotions can be deceptive or fleeting helps you to not be controlled by them, but instead control them with wisdom and spiritual maturity.

3. Focus on Purity and Holiness

The Bible is clear about the importance of sexual purity and honoring God with your body. Romantic love and desire can easily lead to temptation, but as Christians, we are called to honor God in our relationships.

• 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5 – “It is God’s will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality; that each of you should learn to control your own body in a way that is holy and honorable, not in passionate lust like the heathen, who do not know God.”

Practicing self-control and avoiding situations that may lead to temptation are important steps in ensuring that your love is expressed in a godly way.