Should I Remain Single?

 

The question of a Christian staying single and what the Bible says about believers never marrying is often misunderstood.  Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians 7:7-8 "I wish that all men were as I am.  But each man has his own gift from God; one has this gift, another has that.   Now to the unmarried and the widows I say: It is good for them to stay unmarried, as I am.h  Notice that he says some have the gift of singleness and some the gift of marriage.  Although it seems that nearly everyone marries, it is not necessarily God's will for everyone. Paul, for example, did not have to worry about the extra problems and stresses that come with marriage and/or family. He devoted his entire life to spreading the Word of God.

 

On the other hand, some people do better as a team, serving God as a couple and a family.   Both kinds of people are equally important.  It is not a sin to remain single, even for your entire life. The most important thing in life is not finding a mate and having children, but serving God. We should educate ourselves on the Word of God by reading our Bibles and praying.  If we ask God to reveal Himself to us, He will respond (Matthew 7:7), and if we ask Him to use us to fulfill His good works, He will do that as well.  Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is?  His good, pleasing and perfect will (Romans 12:2).

 

Singleness should not be viewed as a curse or an indication that there is something wrong with the single man or woman. While most people marry, and while the Bible seems to indicate that it is God’s will for most people to marry, a single Christian is in no sense a second class Christian.  As with everything else in life, we should ask God for wisdom (James 1:5) concerning marriage.  Following God’s plan, whether that be marriage or singleness, will result in the productivity and joy that God desires for us.

 

1. Singleness as a Gift (1 Corinthians 7:7–8)

Paul says,

“I wish that all men were as I am. But each man has his own gift from God; one has this gift, another has that.”  This means that singleness and marriage are both divine gifts.  Neither is superior in worth — both are ways to serve God faithfully. Paul himself remained single so he could be fully devoted to ministry without distraction.

 

2. Freedom to Serve God Wholeheartedly (1 Corinthians 7:32–35)

Paul explains that the unmarried person can focus on “the Lord’s affairs” while the married person must also care for their spouse and family.  This doesn’t make one better than the other — it simply highlights the unique focus and freedom available in singleness for service, prayer, and ministry.

 

3. Singleness Is Not a Curse or Failure

The Bible never calls singleness a punishment or a lesser state.  Jesus Himself was single, as were prophets like Jeremiah (Jeremiah 16:2) and leaders like Paul.  God values people for their faithfulness and obedience, not their marital status.  Your identity and worth come from Christ, not from being married or unmarried.

4. God’s Will May Differ for Each Person

Romans 12:2 reminds believers to seek God’s perfect will rather than conforming to societal expectations.  In many cultures — including biblical times — marriage was considered the norm, but Paul encourages believers to follow God’s specific calling, not social pressure.

“Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”

 

5. Singleness and Contentment (Philippians 4:11–13)

Paul learned to be content in every circumstance.  Whether single or married, believers are called to find satisfaction in Christ.  This perspective prevents discontentment or envy and helps a believer use their life fruitfully in whatever season God allows.

 

6. Seeking God’s Wisdom (James 1:5)

Whether considering marriage or remaining single, Scripture encourages believers to ask for wisdom.  God’s plan for each life is unique, and trusting Him brings peace and direction.

 

7. Jesus’ Words About Singleness (Matthew 19:10–12)

Jesus acknowledged that some people would remain unmarried “for the sake of the kingdom of heaven.”  This shows that even in His teaching, singleness is viewed as a noble and purposeful calling.

 

 

What Does the Bible Say About Being Single?

The subject of singleness is often misunderstood in the church and the world alike. Many people think that being single means being incomplete — but the Bible paints a far richer picture. God’s Word teaches that both singleness and marriage are beautiful gifts, each designed for a unique purpose in God’s kingdom.

 

Godly Homes: The Heart of the Church

While singleness is a holy calling, God also designed marriage and family as powerful parts of His plan.  When a man and woman come together in faith and love, they build a Godly home — the foundation of a strong church and a strong society.  God desires that parents raise their children in His truth, teaching them the ways of the Lord. As Scripture says, “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.” — Proverbs 22:6

 

When mothers and fathers proclaim the Word of God, they model faith for their children and help shape future generations of believers.  Godly homes are not separate from the church — they are part of the church, living testimonies of Christ’s love and unity.

 

No one should ever be denied the opportunity to marry someone they love in the Lord. Marriage is honorable, holy, and blessed when built on the foundation of faith.

 

A Word of Encouragement

If you are single, embrace this time as a sacred season to grow closer to God, to serve boldly, and to live freely for His kingdom. If you are married, honor your spouse and build a home where Christ is the center, where love is patient and faith is strong.  Both callings are precious. Both reflect the heart of God. And both — when lived in obedience — build His Church on earth.