This is a book for young adults, particularly those living in western countries and those in other parts of the world that are steadily being westernized. Joshua Harris was twenty one years old when he authored this book and it is the expression of God given conviction which is expressed in a forthright manner. He is able to articulate his message clearly and it is a message sorely needed in these days. In the churches of Nth America and Europe dating is common and this book advocates a better way, a godly way, a biblical way for young adults to reorder their lives in the path to marriage. In straightforward language based upon the word of God the motivation in relationships is examined, is it self-pleasing or in order to serve others? Does the easy giving of oneself physically and emotionally bring guilt and leaves scars in later life and mar the beauty of the God given relationship of marriage that is likely to come later? Is the relationship into which a young couple enter when they date something that hinders their walk and service for the Lord? These and other questions are considered. The first part of the book gives reasons why the concept of dating should be rejected. It touches on what constitutes ‘smart love’, to go back to what IS good rather than that which feels good. A section is devoted to recognizing the negative tendencies that are intrinsic to dating and five attitude changes are enumerated to avoid defective dating. To discover what romantic love truly is, to embrace the place of righteousness and purity and the cleansing of the past are some of the contents of the central section of the book and with that the components needed to build a new lifestyle in line with God’s plan. A final section encourages young people to make the most of their singleness to the glory of God and speaks of a biblical and realistic vision of marriage leading to principles that can guide young people from friendship to marriage in the will of God. The fact that a book like this has to be written indicates the way the church of today has been enculturated by the world in which it is set. Every young person who has a heart set upon God’s purpose for their lives will find help in this book and they will be strengthened to go against the tides and trends that prevail in the high schools and colleges of Nth America and elsewhere.
