10 Safety Tips to Avoid Dating Abuse and Violence

Dating abuse and violence can happen to anyone. From online to offline, recognizing the “red flags” of an unhealthy relationship and know when to end it is very crucial.

Dating violence in form of emotional, physical or mental abuse within the bounds of a romantic or potential relationship, according to the National Center for Victims of Crime.

As for online violence, it can be inform of cyber bullying through social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and others.

Dating violence doesn’t happen in a vacuum. Recognised, the several warning signs before it’s too late.

The Holy Spirit is an assurance of safety, submit to His guidance. In the book of Proverbs, The word of God also guides us on safety. “But he who listens to me shall live securely and will be at ease from the dread of evil.” Proverbs 1:33 (NIV)

Sometimes, even “Christian” relationships turns out badly. No one deserves to be in a violent in a relationship, especially a Christian one. There are things you should do, to prevent violence in your relationship.

When a relationship becomes ungodly or abusive, the relationship is certainly going nowhere. You must always remember that your personal safety is more important than having a partner.

Remember that dating should be nice and friendly! Any feeling that makes you fearful or unsafe is not fun and definitely not of God.

If you notice any warning signs of abuse, use all the resources available to you to help end the abusive relationship and create healthy relationships in the future. These resources may include a counsellor, police, pastor, social worker or a therapist.

You know what feels uncomfortable or unusual to tell that the signs that can be linked to an abusive relationship.
Remember, there are people you can turn to in a time of crisis. If friends or family tell that they feel concerned about your relationship or how your partner treats you, they could be correct.
Often, violent relationship is a way to control or maintain power in over you. If you suffer abusive relationship, the fault it is not your or the responsibility to change your partner’s behaviour. Your safety is very important and you should seek for help.
While on a date, stay in public places and refuse to go anywhere with a date who has been drinking or doing drugs.
On your online social platforms make informed choices about privacy settings and with things such as de-tagging the names of abuser from photos.

Take an extra precaution if you are going out on a date with someone that you do not know. Try a group date with friends.
Any behaviour that you feel uncomfortable with is not acceptable and always remember: “The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.” Proverbs 18:10.

8 Every dating and relationship requires mutual respect. Regardless of what upset your partner, try to avoid degradation in a violent manner. A safe relationship is crucial.

You should never allow your date force on you anything that makes you feel uncomfortable, including cajoling you into sexual activity.
Finally, when you not in your safety zone you, anxiety will creep-in. And that’s when you truly need the Sword of the Spirit! You should believe that God is watching over you and wants you to come to him in prayer and He will send the Holy Spirit to protect you.

Remember that dating should be friendly! Any feeling that makes you fearful or unsafe is not fun and definitely not of God.

If you notice any signs of abuse, use all the resources available to you to end the abusive relationship and stop unhealthy relationships in the future. The resources at your disposal include a counsellor, police, pastor, social worker or a therapist.