Seasons

Have you ever felt caught in the in-between? You desire marriage, and not just for the cute Instagram photos or companionship, but because it’s something God created to be good. At the same time, you’re doing your best to honor God in your singleness. Some days it feels peaceful. Other days it feels like your life is on hold.

Flower arrangement in a cafe I enjoy going to

Let’s just say it out loud: singleness can be beautiful, but it can also be hard. Especially when it seems like everyone else is moving into new seasons and you’re standing still.

But what if singleness isn’t a waiting room? What if it’s not just a pit stop on the way to real life? What if singleness is a God-given opportunity to live wholeheartedly for Him?

The Bible is full of unmarried people who lived purposefully. Their lives weren’t defined by what they lacked, but by how deeply they loved God and how fully they followed His call. If you’ve ever wondered whether your life can be just as meaningful before marriage as it could be after, the answer is a resounding yes.

In 1 Corinthians 7, Paul talks about singleness in a way that may surprise you. He says, “I wish that all of you were as I am,” meaning unmarried. And then later he explains why: “An unmarried woman is concerned about the Lord’s affairs. Her aim is to be devoted to the Lord in both body and spirit.” He’s not saying marriage is bad—far from it. He’s simply pointing out that singleness can allow for an undivided devotion to the Lord.

It’s not a lesser calling. It’s just a different one.

The sun setting over the Han River

Paul didn’t just write those words; he lived them. He chose to remain single so that he could be fully available for the work God had given him. And look at the fruit of that choice. Much of the New Testament exists because of his faithfulness in that season.

He’s not the only one.

Lydia, a successful businesswoman in Acts 16, used her home and resources to support the early Church. She was the first recorded convert in Europe and opened her home as a base for ministry. She didn’t wait to be married to start living for God.

Then there’s Mary and Martha of Bethany. These two sisters were close friends of Jesus. They opened their home to Him, asked Him hard questions, and demonstrated deep faith. Their story reminds us that devotion, hospitality, and spiritual insight are not limited by marital status.

Mary Magdalene was delivered from seven demons and became one of Jesus’ most devoted followers. She was the first person to see Him after the resurrection. God entrusted the most important message in history to a single woman who had been completely transformed by His love.

Deborah was a prophetess and judge in Israel. She led the nation, spoke God’s truth, and even went into battle. Her marital status is never mentioned, but her leadership is unforgettable. God used her mightily to bring justice and spiritual renewal.

And of course, there’s...

Jesus. The Son of God lived a perfect, purposeful, fully human life without ever being in a romantic relationship. His life wasn’t lacking. It was overflowing with purpose, compassion, and power. He is the clearest example that love, fulfillment, and impact do not require marriage.

There are so many others. Miriam, who led worship after Israel’s escape from Egypt. John the Baptist, who prepared the way for the Messiah. Nehemiah, who rebuilt the walls of Jerusalem with boldness and strategy. Jeremiah, who was specifically called by God to remain unmarried so he could focus on his prophetic ministry. Huldah, a prophetess during King Josiah’s reign, whose voice brought God’s word to a nation in crisis.

None of these people were sidelined because of their singleness. They were set apart.

It’s easy to believe that being single means being second best. That our lives haven’t truly started until someone chooses us. But God doesn’t operate on that scale. Your value doesn’t begin with a relationship status, and it won’t be completed by a ring. God can use you fully and powerfully right where you are.

That doesn’t mean your desire for marriage is wrong. It’s a good and holy desire. But waiting on God’s timing doesn’t have to be passive. Let your waiting be active.

Cherry Blossom tree at Gyeongbokgung

Worship.

Serve.

Build deep friendships.

Travel.

Learn new skills.

Pour into your church.

Share your story.

Love people well.

Be present in the life you actually have.

You are not forgotten. God sees you. He delights in you. And He is writing your story with wisdom and love.

If marriage is in His plan for you, it will come at the right time, with the right person. Until then, you are not on pause. You are not half-alive. You are not missing out. You are living a full, purpose-filled life now, with Jesus.

So walk closely with Him. Let Him meet you in the longings and the quiet moments. Let Him shape your heart into one that trusts, even when you don’t have all the answers. He knows your hopes. He’s not ignoring them. And He is never late.

Singleness is not a season to survive. It’s a season to steward.

Photo credit: Unsplash

You are...

already loved.

already called.

already enough.

Now I’d love to hear from you. In the comments, share which biblical single person inspires you most and why. Let’s encourage one another as we wait well, walk in faith, and live fully for God right now.