This story has God all over it.

I was a guy who was content in every area of my life: career, ministry but I wanted someone to share it with. I was looking for somebody beautiful, young and vibrant; a person who loved God more than they would love me. Proverbs 18:22 says “He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favour from the Lord”. I was willing to find 'my good thing' and ready for God’s favour.

Nosi and I attended and served in the same church for many years. We passed each other in the church corridors, had mutual friends and overlapping friend circles but we never spoke a word to each other. I started noticing her initally through Instagram as that was the only point of access I had (reacting to stories, commenting on posts etc). The final sign of notice was at a wedding we both attended in late 2021, it was the first time I had seen her looking that beautiful with my own eyes. This was somebody I needed to keep my eye on. This was also the point where I decided to be more daring with my interactions and the Instagram interactions went from comments and reactions to “sliding in the DMs”.

Eventually, I mustered up the courage to ask her out on a date. I wanted to see if she was interested in me and if we would be suitable candidates for marriage. In my opinion, the date was a disaster! We had a lot to say to each other, but our listening skills were not fully developed, and I didn't come away with a clear resolution. One thing was certain: the feelings and intrigue were strong. After some prayer, meditation, and wise counsel, I suggested to Nosi that we take a two-week break from contacting each other (no calls, WhatsApp, DMs) to spend time with God and ask Him about the other person—since no one knows us better than God. It was an intense time for me emotionally and spiritually, but I came out with a strong resolution. We resumed talking two weeks later.

Fast forward, I have had many enjoyable experiences with Nosi—walks on the beach and around the neighborhood, surprising her with flowers, hiking, soul-winning crusades, games nights, early morning prayers and fellowship over the phone, late-night calls, meeting family members, and introducing ourselves to our friendship circles as the new couple. The list goes on. One thing I can say about Nosi is that she is truly sincere in all she does. She loves the Lord wholeheartedly, and I am blessed that God allowed our lives to intersect at this point.

I can honestly say Nosi has made me into a better man, who understands God and His Word deeper. Now that I am a few days away from being a married man, it feels surreal. I am eternally grateful to God and after all the joys and experiences I have had and seen being with Nosi I can truly say: God is good.

This scripture summarises this period of time and speaks of God’s goodness and grace.

Matthew 7:7 (NIV) “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”

Our story might sound like a classic "boy meets girl, boy likes girl" tale, but it has a unique twist. Yoli and I were in the same church for years before we actually started talking. I joined Christ Embassy in 2013 and started serving in 2014; and have served in various departments over the years.

I would often see Yoli at the media/sound desk, always busy and seemingly unapproachable—your typical Mr Serious.

Fast forward to 2021, we attended the same wedding, and for the first time, I saw him in a relaxed, chilled state. If we spoke, it was probably just a hello, but I sensed some connection. Soon after, he started liking my pictures on Instagram, and I was surprised to discover we were connected on social media.

In 2022, Yoli began commenting on my Instagram stories. I remember posting a video on Instagram singing an All-4-One song (So In Love) and asked on the caption "Are we allowed to play RnB music at our weddings?" He commented affirmatively, which piqued my curiosity. I thought A) Does he know this song? B) What could he be thinking about me now??

Lol

We began interacting more, and after months of this virtual back-and-forth, he asked me out on a "date" and gave me his number.

The date was set for two weeks later, giving me time to do some investigating. My friends encouraged me to go for it. I liked his approach; it was clear and intentional. I was curious to hear him out...

On the day of our date, we met at Bootleggers in Century City. He was the perfect gentleman, though the date was a bit awkward with both of us talking a lot, but him more so. The key takeaway was that Yoli liked me and wasn't looking to play around, and neither was I.

We both didn't like the concept of males and females being just friends and neither of us were looking for a friend, as we have tons of them.

After our date, Yoli suggested we take some time to pray and not communicate for about two weeks before he approached Pastor.

Although I was reluctant because I enjoyed our conversations and wanted to know him better, I agreed, knowing his suggestion was wise. Prayer ensured we were guided by the Spirit, not just our feelings.

During that time, I prayed and journaled a lot. I felt tremendous peace about Yoli. I could see myself with him, serving God, advancing in life, and living a joyous life together.

After two weeks, we met for a second date at a restaurant in Durbanville. Again, he was the perfect gentleman. We discussed the next steps, including meeting with Pastor and what we would do if Pastor didn't approve. We agreed we would pray, if that was the case. A strategy that was inspired by Derek and Ruth Prince's story in the book "God is a Matchmaker."

Yoli made an appointment with Pastor and did meet with him. He was so excited afterwards and told me, Pastor wanted to see me.

When I met with Pastor, the experience was quite contrary. Pastor told me we needed to pray and not communicate for a month - to be certain to hear from the Lord. I thought to myself, dear Lord!? A WHOLE MONTH?? Lol.

I broke the news to Yoli. To my amazement, he said let's yield to the counsel of the Man of God.

While it was a bit of a challenge for me, Yoli showed maturity and stability about the whole thing and yielded to the month of no communication. I would call, he wouldn't answer lol.

The next time Pastor met with Yoli, he gave us the go ahead and to start premarital counseling.

I was so excited and nervous at the same time. But through faith and love, I was ready to officially start the journey of courtship. I enjoyed getting to know Yoli during this time. But most importantly I enjoyed getting to know God more. During our courtship we prayed a lot. Studied the word a lot. And we also did a lot of fun activities.

My testimony about Yoli is that he makes me a better Christian. Our relationship is marked by sanctity, holiness, and pure bliss. What began with an intention not to be just friends has blossomed into a deep, best-friend relationship. I am grateful to God for bringing such a thoughtful, kind, and caring man into my life. I eagerly look forward to the glorious days ahead as we serve the Lord together.