“But if they cannot control themselves, they should marry, for it is better to marry than to burn with passion.” – 1 Corinthians 7:9
The Importance of Singleness
As we explore the Bible’s take on not marrying, we find that there is great value in the gift of singleness. Being single can offer us an incredible opportunity to grow in our relationship with God without the distractions that come with marriage. When we are single, we can devote our time and energy to serve others, pursue our passions, and deepen our faith without the responsibilities that accompany married life. This time of our lives can be fruitful and fulfilling, reflecting the beauty of a relationship with God above all else.
1 Corinthians 7:7
“I wish that all of you were as I am. But each of you has your own gift from God; one has this gift, another has that.” – 1 Corinthians 7:7
Matthew 19:12
“For there are eunuchs who were born that way, and there are eunuchs who have been made eunuchs by others, and there are those who choose to live like eunuchs for the sake of the Kingdom of Heaven.” – Matthew 19:12
1 Corinthians 7:32-33
“I would like you to be free from concern. An unmarried man is concerned about the Lord’s affairs—how he can please the Lord. But a married man is concerned about the affairs of this world—how he can please his wife.” – 1 Corinthians 7:32-33
Luke 20:34
“Jesus replied, ‘The people of this age marry and are given in marriage. But those who are considered worthy of taking part in the age to come and in the resurrection from the dead will neither marry nor be given in marriage.'” – Luke 20:34
1 Timothy 5:14
“So I counsel younger widows to marry, to have children, to manage their homes and to give the enemy no opportunity for slander.” – 1 Timothy 5:14
The Call to Devotion
In the verses we find, there is a strong encouragement for us to focus on serving God wholeheartedly, especially if we choose not to marry. This single life allows us to embrace a deeper relationship with Him. We can cultivate our spiritual gifts and serve in our communities without the distraction of marital commitments. We can pour ourselves into loving and supporting others, serving in the church, and sharing God’s love in tangible ways. Finding joy in our service is a beautiful calling that can lead to a life that is fulfilling, even if it is not accompanied by a spouse.
1 Corinthians 7:35
“I am saying this for your own good, not to restrict you, but that you may live in a right way in undivided devotion to the Lord.” – 1 Corinthians 7:35
Philippians 4:19
“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:19
2 Corinthians 11:2
“I am jealous for you with a godly jealousy. I promised you to one husband, to Christ, so that I might present you as a pure virgin to him.” – 2 Corinthians 11:2
1 Peter 5:7
“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” – 1 Peter 5:7
Romans 12:1
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.” – Romans 12:1
Protection From Relationships
The Bible also talks about the potential struggles and heartbreaks that can come from relationships, which can be a wonderful reminder for us as we reflect on the choice to remain single. We may have seen many relationships go wrong or observed how they can lead us away from God. Staying single allows us to treasure our own hearts and minds, guarding them against potential pain and distraction. It reminds us to keep our focus on God’s will for our lives and to stay away from the pitfalls that might come through unhealthy relationships.
2 Corinthians 6:14
“Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness?” – 2 Corinthians 6:14
Proverbs 4:23
“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” – Proverbs 4:23
James 1:27
“Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.” – James 1:27
Galatians 5:13
“You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.” – Galatians 5:13
Psalm 119:11
“I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” – Psalm 119:11
The Gift of Contentment
It is important to realize that being single can also teach us valuable lessons about the art of contentment. We can find satisfaction in our relationship with God, learning to trust Him fully with our lives. The Bible encourages us to be joyful and content, regardless of our circumstances. Embracing our singlehood can lead us to a deeper understanding of reliance on God and cultivate a sense of peace that transcends our life situations. As we cling to God’s promises and lean on them, we find that our happiness and fulfillment are in Him.
Philippians 4:11-13
“I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” – Philippians 4:11-13
1 Timothy 6:6
“But godliness with contentment is great gain.” – 1 Timothy 6:6
Hebrews 13:5
“Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.'” – Hebrews 13:5
Proverbs 30:8-9
“Keep falsehood and lies far from me; give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread.” – Proverbs 30:8-9
Matthew 6:34
“Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” – Matthew 6:34
Trusting God’s Plan
Finally, choosing not to marry calls us to trust in God’s plan for our lives. Sometimes, this means accepting that He has a purpose for us that may not align with societal expectations or the desires of our hearts. God knows each of us better than we know ourselves, and trusting Him means surrendering our dreams and fears to His perfect will. By placing our lives in His hands, we can find joy and peace in the journey as we seek to fulfill His purpose.
Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6
Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11
Romans 8:28
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” – Romans 8:28
Psalm 37:4
“Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.” – Psalm 37:4
Isaiah 41:10
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” – Isaiah 41:10
Final Thoughts
As we have seen in these verses, the topic of not marrying is surrounded by opportunities for growth, devotion, and a deeper relationship with God. Embracing singlehood allows us to focus on serving and loving others without the distractions of marriage. Remember that each season of life holds its own beauty, and our worth is based on our relationship with God, not on our marital status. We can flourish in our purpose and find meaning in every experience.
Encouraging one another in our choices, we can create a supportive community that reflects Christ’s love. Each single person has a unique journey, and we can learn from each other and celebrate the different ways God expresses His love through us. Whether single or married, we are called to remain rooted in faith and live out God’s purpose for our lives.
For those among us experiencing the teachings of forced marriage, you may find insight in the Bible Verses About Forced Marriage. And for understanding the importance of faithfulness, don’t miss the reflections in Bible Verses About Fornication and Adultery. Keep exploring, and let’s grow together.