Are you TRULY in love? Answer these 26 questions to find out....

1. How has your relationship changed since you first met?

2. Do you feel confortable with the individual's personality or do you at times feel it neccesary to apologize for manners, comments or appearance?

3. Specifically, what have you done to promote the happiness and well being of the other person?

4. Do you just enjoy being with the other person?

5. Have you been in the relationship long enough to see each other in negative or difficult circumstances?

6. Are you concerned about being able to measure up to the other persons expectations?

7. Are you continuing to check out other individuals in case there is somone more desirable?

8. If your friend were to never change present habits or quirks would you be satisfied to remain in the relationship?

9. How are arguements or disagreements resolved? Do you consistently have to "give in" to end conflicts?

10. Do you enjoy some of the same leisure activities?

11. Does talking with each other fill your attentions or do you find that tv and other activities are needed to fill the gaps?

12. How have your parents (or parent) responded to this relationship?

13. Have you thought through the impact of the other person's faults and weaknesses on the relationship or do you tend to ignore them assuming they will improve?

14. Does your special friend mix well with your other friends? Do you enjoy the other person's friends?

15. Are you willing to make concessions or do you expect the other person to yield to your wishes?

16. Is there anyone whom you love more than this person? If so, how does that impact your relationship?

17. Does your physical attraction tend to overrule concerns when you are apart?

18. Can you express what activities you want or dont want to do without fear of hurting the other person?

19. Do you share the same basic moral values? Do you find yourself usually being the one to "hold the line" on moral issues?

20. Is this relationship in any way, a means of escaping an undesirable situation at home, school or work?

21. What most often causes conflict between the two of you? Does the disagreement reflect fundamental or petty differences?

22. Do you have any reservations or doubt about your love?

23. Do you find the other person's body desirable as it is presently or do you hope for changes (in such things as weight, hair, complexion etc.)?

24. How does your most spiritual and trusted friend view the relationship?

25.Would you feel comfortable sharing your true responses to these questions with the other person?

26. Have you been totally honest in answering these questions or have you rationalized your answers?

If after doing these questions you have significant concerns, you may want to seek help from a qualified premarital counselor (which is always wise when getting married anyway). If NONE of these questions raised a concern regarding your relationship, you need a reality check!

If you would like more information, Pastor Ramon Mata would be happy to answer any questions. Contact New Hope Community Church at 503.659.LOVE or ramon@newhopecommunitychurch.org