First of all, humbly consider what the well-meaning Christian are telling you.

I know that's painful to hear, but too often we think we know best and that leads us to assume that everyone who is against us is wrong. We can see it in other people - when other people are doing something they shouldn't and they reject the counsel of the Church because they think everyone's against them - but it's harder to see when we do it ourselves.

Look at who among the "well-meaning Christians" is giving feedback. You don't have to consider everyone's advice equal. Are there people who have been faithful to a local congregation, proven in leadership, with healthy relationships of their own, and lives that are advancing the kingdom of God? If those people are suggesting that something is not right in the relationship, you need to humble yourself and listen to what they're saying. More often than not, they're right.

If you're getting hurtful, bitter feedback from people who are not really living out a life of faith, then you take their comments with a big grain of salt and you pray for them.

And not, "God, please help them see this is okay." Bless them. Pray for their health and their provision and their families and their relationships with the Lord. Bless them with everything you would pray for yourself. It will build YOU up in love, and take the sting out of their words.

If NONE of the people who are giving you this feedback are of the first kind - people who are tested, seasoned, fruitful believers - you need to find some. Everybody needs a mentor in the faith, but especially people who think they're ready for courtship.

It can be a married couple if you like, or each of you pick someone you trust and respect, and who is married. That person is your mentor and your accountability partner. Tell him/her everything, listen and obey.

Having that mentor relationship will also give you an easy way to respond to the bad feedback: "Thanks. Mr Awesome is kind of taking me under his wing for this season, and helping me do this right. But thanks for your concern."