(A Call to Priestly Responsibility in the Home)
Scripture Anchor: Matthew 6:33
SINGLENESS is a unique season of life, full of opportunities for growth, service, and preparation for the future. The Bible offers wisdom on how singles can navigate their journey with purpose, integrity, and faith, ensuring that their choices align with God’s perfect plan. Many single Christians struggle with questions about their purpose, career, relationships, and marriage. What does the Bible say about these matters, and how can one prepare effectively for the future while remaining faithful to God’s standards as a single?
A single Christian’s journey must begin with the pursuit of purpose. Every believer is created for a divine reason, and understanding that reason is key to living a fulfilling life. The Bible assures us that God has a plan for every individual, plans of peace and a future (Jeremiah 29:11). Recognizing this truth, singles must seek God’s direction in all their ways, trusting Him to guide their paths (Proverbs 3:5-6).
Discovering purpose requires time in God’s presence, searching the Scriptures, and being sensitive to His leading. Personal consecration plays a significant role in fulfilling divine purpose, as those who set themselves apart for God’s use become instruments of honour (2 Timothy 2:21). Distractions abound in today’s world, making it crucial to focus on Christ, as Mary did when she chose the “one thing needful” (Luke 10:41-42). Pursuing God’s kingdom first assures that all other things, including career success and marriage, will follow in due time (Matthew 6:33).
In the pursuit of purpose, career development and empowerment also play a significant role. Work is a divine assignment, and diligence in labour is a biblical principle. The Bible commends those who are skillful in their work, promising that they will stand before kings (Proverbs 22:29). However, Christian singles must carefully discern between godly career pursuits and mere personal ambition. While planning for financial and professional growth, they must ensure that their priorities align with God’s will (James 3:13-17). It is easy to become consumed with the drive for success, but Jesus warns against prioritising wealth over eternal matters (Luke 12:16-21).
Faith and career ambitions must not be in opposition; rather, they should complement each other as believers seek to glorify God in their professions (Colossians 3:23- 24). The story of Daniel demonstrates that a person can be highly skilled, spiritually strong, and influential without compromising their faith (Daniel 1:8). Christian singles must seek wisdom, work hard, and trust God for favour and increase.
An area of great concern in the life of many singles is chastity and sexual purity. In a world that promotes immorality, maintaining purity requires firm conviction and godly discipline. The Bible commands believers to flee from sexual immorality, reminding them that their bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:18-20). The call to holiness is not a suggestion but a requirement, as God desires His children to be set apart (1 Thessalonians 4:3-5; Hebrews 12:14)). Yielding to temptation can bring devastating consequences, as seen in the life of Samson, whose destiny was cut short due to sexual compromise (Judges 16:1-21).
Joseph, however, provides an example of how to resist temptation, choosing to honour God even when faced with pressure (Genesis 39:9). Christian singles must establish practical boundaries in their relationships to avoid falling into sin (Ephesians 5:3). Accountability partners, careful choices in entertainment, and a deep commitment to God’s Word are necessary to remain pure in a corrupt world (Psalm 119:9). Waiting on God’s timing for marriage prevents unnecessary emotional and spiritual wounds, as those who trust in the Lord will not be put to shame (Isaiah 40:31).
As singles prepare for marriage, spiritual and personal growth should take priority over a mere desire for companionship. A strong marriage is built on wisdom, knowledge, and understanding (Proverbs 24:3-4). Rather than focusing solely on finding a spouse, singles should focus on becoming the right partner by developing godly character (Galatians 5:22-23). Many people enter marriage without adequate preparation, leading to struggles that could have been avoided.
A solid foundation in Christ ensures that a marriage will stand firm in the face of challenges (Matthew 7:24- 27). The Bible warns against being unequally yoked with unbelievers, as spiritual differences can cause significant conflicts (2 Corinthians 6:14-15). It is also important to seek godly counsel, as mentorship and biblical wisdom provide direction and prevent avoidable mistakes (Titus 2:3-5, Proverbs 11:14). Christian singles should evaluate potential spouses not just based on emotions, but by looking at their spiritual walk, purpose alignment, and character.
A crucial aspect of the marriage journey is the process of finding a partner. The Bible teaches that a man finds a wife and obtains favour from the Lord (Proverbs 18:22), while a woman is to be positioned in godly virtue, ready to be found (Ruth 3:10-11). One of the biggest challenges singles face is discerning God’s will in choosing a spouse. Many struggle with doubts and fears, wondering if they will make the right decision. However, God promises to guide His children and direct their steps (Psalm 32:8, Romans 8:14).
A key question to consider when evaluating a potential spouse is whether the relationship aligns with God’s purpose. While love and emotions are important, the most critical factor is spiritual compatibility (Amos 3:3). Rushing into a relationship out of pressure or fear often leads to regrets, but waiting on God’s timing brings peace and assurance (Ecclesiastes 3:11). The Bible warns against making hasty decisions without seeking God’s counsel, as seen in the mistakes of Samson (Judges 14:1-3) and Solomon (1 Kings 11:1-4). Trusting God to lead the right person into one’s life eliminates unnecessary anxiety and ensures a lasting, fulfilling marriage.
Singleness is not a time of waiting in idleness but a season of preparation. A single Christian who seeks God’s purpose, remains diligent in their career, embraces purity, prepares for marriage, and trusts God’s timing will walk in divine fulfillment. The wisdom of the Scriptures provides guidance for every step, ensuring that singles not only make the right choices but also enjoy the peace and joy that come from living according to God’s plan. Every single person is valuable in God’s eyes, and those who honour Him in this season will surely see His hand at work in their lives.
The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with every single who is waiting on the Lord’s time for marriage.
