As a teenage girl, if you are like me, you see every guy you meet as someone who could possibly be your husband one day. As crazy as that sounds, I confess. We tend to spend a lot of our time focusing on what our future husband will be like, and I think it is time that we quit settling on someone just because we want love, but start saving all of that excitement for someone super special, worth your time, and maybe even your future husband. From the few relationships, or "things" I have had, I have learned a lot about what we should be waiting for..

1. Don't move too fast.

It's sooooo easy to start going straight into things with someone you barely know, because of infatuation. Take it slow, and enjoy it.

2. Don't be fooled by the attention he pays you.

What about how he treats others? That should be the first sign of how he is going to treat you. If he loves others, and is a steward of Christ, my, how great he is going to treat you.

3. Don't just focus on his looks.

His personality, character, and faith are what matters the most. If he has all of that, and is also pretty cute.. even better.

4. Don't think that just because he says he's a Christian, he will lead you toward Christ.

That is soooo not true. Actions speak louder than words. Don't give in after it is too late.

5. Don't ignore the red flags.

They may seem like something small, but in the long run they could be something huge and something you regret.

6. Don't be with someone who doesn't bring out the best in you.

The people around you should see how happy you are and how great he is for you. What better relationship is there than one that makes you great?

7. Don't be with someone who doesn't make you feel beautiful.

He shouldn't just tell you that you're beautiful, but make you realize it and feel it, too.

8. Don't be with someone who is good with those 3 little words.

Those are big words and they are special words. Don't let him say it without proving it. You should also not say them too soon, just because he did.

9. Don't go into it without knowing much about him.

There could be something you didn't know about him that makes a huge difference, and leaves you heartbroken. Get to know him, and it may be something amazing.

10. Don't be with someone that your parents don't like.

Goodness, is this something I struggle with. Please don't rely on your own judgement. You are your parents' child, and they know way more than you do. If your parents like him, that just makes the relationship that much better, and saves A LOT of hurt.

11. Don't be with someone who doesn't cherish you.

This is sooooo important. The great Karen Kingsbury said in one of her books "The next time that boy pursues you, he better do it like a dying man looking for water in a desert. When it's the right guy, you'll know, because he'll cherish you."

12. Don't be with someone who doesn't love Jesus.

Don't lose yourself in someone who has not lost himself in his faith. His love for the Lord is the MOST important thing of all. Quite Women Company said "Wait on the man who waited on the Lord to lead him straight to you."

"A relationship where you can pray, worship, and passionately pursue God together is always worth the wait." -Adam Cappa

Dating is hard. And finding the man for you is really hard. In this time of life, however, rely on the love that God has for you because it so much sweeter than some little fling. Isaiah 40:31 says "The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end.." I pray that you are constantly reminded of that and how much greatness you deserve, darling. The man of your dreams is out there. You might just have to wait for him.

"God has more in store for you than you can even imagine."

- Ephesians 3:20