Day 3: Holiness for the Unmarried

Admittedly, churches talk about marriage, parenting, relationships, and other topics quite frequently. Why? Because topics such as these often hit upon the majority of the people listening. For the most part, churches in the west have more people who are married and/or parents in attendance than they have people who are single. 

But Paul wants to be sure to write to those who are single, too. He basically says, “Don’t be frustrated that you’re single – embrace it! And if you are engaged to be married – embrace that, too! Don’t see your marriage as something that completely defines who you are, and don’t let your singleness completely define who you are. You are who God says you are. Remember, that’s who you are!” 

Some churches today do recognize the importance of speaking about singleness. For example, in his book The Meaning of Marriage, Timothy Keller writes, “…if singles learn to rest in and rejoice in their marriage to Christ, that means they will be able to handle single life without a devastating sense of being unfulfilled and unformed.” Whether married, divorced, widowed, or single, it’s our relationship with Christ that brings fulfillment to our lives. As you read today, consider this: What can you share with a friend who is single that would be encouraging for them to hear? 

READING: 1 CORINTHIANS 7:17-40

What can you share with a friend who is single that would be encouraging for them to hear?

Is it difficult for you to think that you are married with Christ? In what ways does using this kind of verbiage impact or change how you view your relationship with God?

F260 READING: (A Scripture Reading Plan for Busy Believers)

Read: Ezra 1 & 2

Reflect: What did you H.E.A.R. from God today?

PRAYER:

Heavenly Father, in the same way that ancient cultures taught their children that marriage was essential, we too often communicate the same. But today I’m reminded that while there is tremendous good in marriage, there is also tremendous good in singleness. Marriage doesn’t define who we are. Being a parent doesn’t define who we are. Our job doesn’t define who we are. Only You define who we are. May I remember this truth today and every day; I am who You say I am. I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen. 

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