Online Dating Guide - Christian Singles Dating & Matchmaking Tips

Online dating gives you access to thousands of singles and once you find someone you like, you can take your time getting to know them. By the time you give out your number for the first date, you'll already be friends.

Careful, thoughtful decisions generally yield better dating results. Guard against trusting the untrustworthy; suitors must earn your trust gradually, through consistently honorable, forthright behavior.

Never do anything you feel unsure about. If you are in any way afraid of your date, use your best judgment to diffuse the situation and get out of there.

Be responsible about romance, and don’t fall in love at the click of a mouse. Don’t become prematurely intimate with someone, even if that intimacy only occurs online.

Though online dating has distinct advantages, there's no reason you shouldn't go to an agency and attend speed dating events as well. The more places you look, the better your chances will be of meeting someone special.

Remain anonymous. You should avoid being identified online. Start by getting a free, anonymous email account. Never give out your real name, phone number, or address in chat rooms or in personals ads.

When you choose to meet offline, always tell a friend where you are going and when you will return. Leave your date's name and telephone number with your friend. Never arrange for your date to pick you up at home. Meet in a public place.

The beauty of meeting and relating online is that you can collect information gradually, later choosing whether to pursue the relationship in the offline world. You do not have to meet anyone, regardless of your level on online intimacy.

Be honest. Be truthful in your personals ad and in online conversations. Make your intentions clear. If you're just flirting, be sure that the other person isn't taking you seriously.

Never include your last name, email address, home address, phone number, place of work or any other identifying information in your free profile or initial messages.

When you’ve decided to meet, tell someone close to you exactly where you’ll be and when. Bring your mobile phone with emergency numbers stored in it. You’re not likely to need them, but it’s better to play it safe!

Photos will give you an idea of someone's appearance, which may prove helpful in realizing that 'gut feeling.' It's best to view several images of someone if available.

Do not give personal details, such as your address, until you are certain that you know and trust the person you have met.

Lovers may come and go, but friends last forever. Even if you are just looking for a little romantic or passionate fun and games, you will probably feel better about your Cyber-Lover if it grows out of a friendship.

Online dating is the convenient, fast and friendly way to find a brand new circle of friends or that special someone.

Take it slowly. Spend as much time communicating electronically as is necessary for you to feel comfortable enough to actually meet the person. Don't be coerced into meeting face to face.

Write a great profile - What you say about yourself speaks volumes. Keep it light and friendly, and avoid anything negative sounding. Never include your last name, email address, home address or phone number.

State your intentions - Are you looking for a lover or just seeking a new friend? Don’t lead someone on if you don’t intend to follow through. Remember that the other person is a human being, and could be hurt or disappointed.

Don’t let the other person push you to phone or meet if you’re not ready. If they’re eventually going to make a good partner, they’ll understand and wait. If someone asks for your phone number, politely refuse.

Chat on the phone - Before you decide to meet, a phone call can reveal much about a person's communication and social skills. Only give your phone number when you feel completely comfortable.

If you feel uncomfortable about a member, stop contacting them. You can block them so you will not receive unwanted messages. If you feel someone is abusing the service, tell the dating service provider.

Watch out for someone who seems too good to be true. The person at the other end may not be who or what he or she says. Trust your instincts. If anything makes you uncomfortable, walk away for your own safety and protection.

Have Fun!