The Gift of Singleness

Contemplating today (as I often do) on my walk with God and at which mile marker I've arrived to date. One of the features that make up the landscape of my particular reality is my singleness. I do accept this state, at this time, as a gift from God. I have come out of much trouble and this is a very peaceful state for me in many ways.

Paul speaking of singleness, refers to it as a “gift from God” (1 Cor. 7:7). This is where my pondering began. I have been aware of this scripture for years and the interpretation many in the church have placed upon it. I suppose it's the interpretation that I have subconsciously accepted without taking the time to question it, until now. That is, singleness is a gift from God in the supernatural sense. Like other gifts of the Spirit, bestowed upon the receiver as a sort of God-ordained super power. "I am unmoved by your qualities and the thought of a marriage partnership, I'm Single Girl. With powers and abilities far beyond those of married men." Leaving us singles with the question, "How do I know if I have this super power?" we then go into a pray/wait/observe cycle looking to see within ourselves some spiritual singleness equivalent of x-ray vision or flight.

I am wondering if I have gotten the meaning of "gift" a bit wrong (as well as many well-meaning teachers and pastors). Perhaps, the gift of singleness, is just that, singleness. No super powers, no extra ordinary abilities, no imperviousness to feelings of loneliness, fear, or confusion. Just singleness, accepted as good, because God brought me here and He loves me. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

Is this were I will be for my whole life? I don't know. I just know that I trust God, and at this mile marker, I am trusting God and thanking Him for my gift of singleness.

 

Wow...thank you so very much I needed to read that. I've been single for the last 4 months and it is very different for me. I was married (now divorced) and after we separated I always had a boyfriend and never knew what it was like to be by myself. I thank God for showing me not to settle just to say I had a man. I know God has someone for me I just need to be patient and most of all concentrate on my relationship with Him and my children.

God Bless you!!!

 

I ABSOLUTELY agree! If I m single , that means, God wants me to be single for now! so, me too, I just trust Him and i know, its only He, who knows what should I do, who should I meet etc....