Dating, faith and the journey to self-discovery

How would a modern dater’s approach to relationships change if they saw the face of God in each online dating profile they scrolled through, in every blind date they met – and every time they looked in the mirror? Delphine Chui shares the lessons she’s learned through adopting a faith-based approach to dating in the latest episode of Things I Wish I Knew.

What does it mean to date with intention in a world that often prioritises instant gratification over genuine connection? In a culture saturated with dating apps, romantic tropes and social pressure, the pursuit of love can feel more like a performance than a path to intimacy. Yet beneath the surface of swipes and situationships lies a deeper question: how do we date well, and what role does faith play in that journey? 

Delphine Chui, a writer and editor with nearly two decades of dating experience, offers a compelling reflection on this very question. Her story is one of transformation, from early relationships shaped by societal expectations to a conscious decision to pause and reflect through a ‘dating fast’. This period of intentional solitude became a turning point, allowing her to reconnect with herself and her faith. ‘I fell in love with myself for the first time ever’, she shares, underscoring the importance of self-worth as a foundation for healthy relationships. 

Her insights challenge the conventional wisdom around dating. Rather than focusing solely on physical attraction, Delphine advocates for emotional intimacy and friendship as the bedrock of romantic connection. She invites us to consider whether we truly know ourselves – and whether that knowledge informs how we relate to others. 

This reflection is especially relevant for those guiding young people through their first experiences of dating. Delphine’s own journey began at seventeen, a time she now sees as too young to navigate relationships with clarity and intention. Her perspective raises important questions for parents, educators and pastoral carers: how do we support teenagers in understanding love beyond the bounds of peer pressure and social validation? 

The conversation also touches on generational shifts in dating practices, particularly the rise of online dating and the sense of isolation it can bring. Delphine suggests that reviving communal spaces, where people meet through shared interests and values, could offer a more meaningful alternative. 

These themes are explored in depth in the latest episode of Things I Wish I Knew, where Delphine joins host Julia Corcoran for a candid and thoughtful dialogue. While the podcast offers a rich listening experience, the questions it raises linger long after the episode ends: What does it mean to date with faith? How do we cultivate healthy self-love? And how can we build relationships rooted in emotional and spiritual connection? 

Whether you're navigating the dating world yourself or supporting others on that journey, Delphine’s reflections offer a gentle invitation to pause, reflect and reimagine what love can look like when it’s grounded in authenticity and grace. 

Listen to 'Things I Wish I Knew Before Trying Modern Dating'; and to get all of our new episodes and catch up on our first series, subscribe now >>