“He has made everything beautiful in its time.” – Ecclesiastes 3:11
The Value of Patience in Relationships
As we contemplate waiting to get married, we often need to remind ourselves that patience is a valuable virtue. Life may seem to rush us into decisions, especially with societal pressures pointing to the ideal timeline for relationships. However, God teaches us that waiting on Him can lead to beautiful outcomes. In our journey, we should recognize that patience allows us to grow, learn, and ultimately, helps us to become the right partner for someone special. We should lean on our faith and trust that the right time for our marital union will come along as long as we align our hearts with God.
Galatians 5:22
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness.” – Galatians 5:22
James 1:4
“Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” – James 1:4
Romans 12:12
“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” – Romans 12:12
Isaiah 40:31
“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” – Isaiah 40:31
Psalms 27:14
“Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.” – Psalms 27:14
Trusting God’s Timing
Waiting to get married requires us to trust God’s perfect timing. We often urge for the future, but we must understand that everything that occurs has been ordained by God and is ultimately for our good. His plans are far greater than we can imagine, and by placing our trust in Him, we prepare ourselves to accept the wonderful gifts He has laid out for us. While we feel the pressure of the ticking clock, remembering God’s sovereignty can provide the comfort we need to navigate through our waiting period, knowing that the best is yet to come.
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
Ecclesiastes 3:1
“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” – Ecclesiastes 3:1
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
Psalms 37:5
“Commit your way to the Lord; trust in Him and He will do this.” – Psalms 37:5
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
Understanding Love Before Marriage
As we wait to get married, we are encouraged to delve deep into the meaning of love. The Bible presents profound insights into what love truly embodies. It is not merely an emotion but a commitment of our hearts and actions. Within this waiting period, we discover the significance of loving ourselves and learning how to love others selflessly. By developing our understanding of love through biblical teachings, we can be better equipped when the time comes for us to enter into the beautiful institution of marriage.
1 Corinthians 13:4-5
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.” – 1 Corinthians 13:4-5
1 John 4:8
“Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.” – 1 John 4:8
Song of Solomon 8:6
“Place me like a seal over your heart, like a seal on your arm; for love is as strong as death, its jealousy unyielding as the grave. It burns like blazing fire, like a mighty flame.” – Song of Solomon 8:6
Ephesians 5:25
“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” – Ephesians 5:25
Colossians 3:14
“And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” – Colossians 3:14
The Importance of Self-Preparation
While waiting for marriage, it’s essential for us to focus on self-preparation. This time can be utilized to strengthen our personal relationship with God and to grow spiritually and emotionally. As we nurture ourselves, we build a solid foundation that will help us when we eventually enter into marriage. Engaging in activities such as prayer, studying God’s word, or spending time in community can position us positively for our future. Self-preparation is vital as it equips us not only for a strong relationship but also to understand and fulfill our role within a marriage.
Philippians 4:13
“I can do all this through Him who gives me strength.” – Philippians 4:13
2 Timothy 3:16-17
“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” – 2 Timothy 3:16-17
Titus 2:7-8
“In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned.” – Titus 2:7-8
Proverbs 4:23
“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” – Proverbs 4:23
Hebrews 12:1
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” – Hebrews 12:1
Seeking God’s Guidance
As we navigate the waiting period before getting married, seeking God’s guidance becomes incredibly important. In all decisions, including choosing a partner, we should earnestly seek His wisdom. When we pray and consult God’s word, we open ourselves up to divine guidance which can significantly shape our relationships. This intentional seeking of God will bring clarity to our hearts and minds, ensuring that every step we take aligns with His purpose for us. Together we need to make sure that our relationships reflect God’s love and light.
Psalms 25:4-5
“Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long.” – Psalms 25:4-5
Proverbs 16:3
“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” – Proverbs 16:3
Psalms 119:105
“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” – Psalms 119:105
Proverbs 2:6
“For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.” – Proverbs 2:6
John 16:13
“But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth.” – John 16:13
Finding Contentment in Singleness
Lastly, we should embrace and find contentment in our time of singleness while waiting to get married. Society may pressure us to rush into a relationship, but it is crucial to recognize the beauty of our current season. With contentment, we can focus on our purpose, cultivate friendships, and deepen our relationship with God. This period allows us to explore who we are as individuals, and it is essential to enjoy every moment of it. By knowing and loving ourselves first, we become prepared for a future of love and companionship.
1 Corinthians 7:32-34
“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 7:32-34
Philippians 4:11
“I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.” – Philippians 4:11
Matthew 6:33
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” – Matthew 6:33
Ecclesiastes 3:12
“I know that there is nothing better for people than to be happy and to do good while they live.” – Ecclesiastes 3:12
Psalms 37:4
“Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.” – Psalms 37:4
Final Thoughts
Reflecting on the topic of waiting to get married has shown us the beauty and strength found in patience, trust, and preparation. Throughout scripture, we are encouraged to find joy and contentment in our current season. Our waiting serves a purpose, preparing us for both marriage and a deeper relationship with God. We learn that love is not just about timing but understanding and growing individually before merging our lives with another.
In our hearts, we know that God’s timing is perfect. He will bring forth the right person in due season. Until that time, we must seek His face and prepare ourselves for what He has in store for us. Each moment spent waiting is not wasted but rather a time to become the best version of ourselves.
Let’s embrace this time with joy and gratitude as we look forward to our future together. If you want to explore more topics, consider reading about loving our neighbors as we love ourselves in 1 John 4:11, or discover what true love means from 1 John 4:2.