Dating is not really a biblical word at all. That doesn't mean it's wrong to go out with someone on a "date." But it is important to remember what the Bible has to say about developing romantic friendships.

If you begin dating without some clear guidelines and boundaries, you are headed for disaster. Take a quick glance at what dating is not:

1. Dating is not for those who aren't ready. In my opinion, dating shouldn't even be a consideration until a young person is at least 16 years old.
   
   That's been "the Law" with my three teenage boys, and they're doing just fine with it. That doesn't mean you can't have good friendships with the opposite sex; just keep things in a group environment.
   
2. Dating is not a great way to "really get to know someone." Why? Because everyone is on best behavior during a date.
   
   If you really want to get to know someone, watch the person at school every day, or both of you get a job together at McDonald's. Eight straight hours over a hot greaser full of fries will tell you the real tale.
   
3. Dating is not all it's cracked up to be. Think about two people out together who hardly know each other. They're young and have limited social skills. They have to try to create awkward conversation for hours on end.

The point is, it's usually a whole lot easier to get to know someone among a group of other friends who can help fill those awkward moments, keeping things fun.

Source: Every Teenager's Little Black Book on Sex and Dating
by Blaine Bartel.
Excerpt permission granted by Harrison House Publishers