The Set-Up
When I first decided I was going to go to a Bible college, a man from my childhood church asked, “Are you going to get your MRS degree?” Once he explained to me what that was, I laughed and told him that I was only going to get an education. However, once I arrived on campus, I realized how many people went to college looking for a spouse.
During my time at college, every spring my Facebook page was full of people announcing their engagements. I even did photoshoots for a few! The joke around campus was, “A ring by spring.” Thankfully, many of the couples I knew are still married, but unfortunately, there have been many who have divorced.
Our culture pushes the idea that in order to be complete, you have to find someone special to complete you. Take the classic Disney movies, the Hallmark channel, and just about any song on the radio, and you’ll hear about people on the quest to find true love. It’s as if finding the person to say, “I do,” to is the ultimate goal in our life. Culture teaches this, but the Bible says something different.
Our ultimate goal and purpose in life is to glorify God. This is true no matter what our relationship status is. In today’s reading, Paul thinks that everyone should remain as he is – single. Being a single man allowed Paul to travel and risk his life for the gospel. He didn’t have a family he needed to provide for or protect. He could focus all his time and energy on serving God.
Paul admits that this is just his personal view, and not a command from God, but there’s a principle we can learn here, whether you’re single or in a relationship – embrace the life you have and live as you are called. No matter where you are in life, it’s a gift from God, meant to help you reach the potential He has for you.
Passage to Read
Reflection Questions
Are you content in your relationship status now? Why or why not?
What are some things you can do with your life situation that might be difficult for others to do in theirs? (For example, because I am single, I don’t have to worry about the needs of a spouse or family when I make financial decisions).
What are some of the challenges that you face in your life situation? How can you take those challenges and grow from them?
Prayer Idea
Thank God for the life He has given you. If you are struggling to find things to be grateful for, ask God to help you see His blessings. Ask God for wisdom in how to use your life situation to serve those around you. If you are struggling, ask God to reveal someone to you that you could reach out to and ask for help. By doing this, you give them an opportunity to be used by God and be a blessing, too.