1 Cor 7:7-9 ; 25-38 (The Message)
Singleness and Marriage are both gifts from God
Singleness is a good state to be in
v.8 ".. singleness might well be the thing for them, as it has been for me.."
v. 26 .. I think it would probably be best to stay just as you are.
Value of being single :
- Free from the stress marriage brings - v.28
- Free from the responsibilities that marriage brings - fewer baggage. Philippians 4:6 can be more applicable for single people, too hard for married ones. e.g. John Wesley, actually can please both if there's a submission to God.
For Singles
Satisfaction comes from:
Contentment - learn to be content.
Phil 4 : 11
married/single, will feel content when our identity is ground by God - we are special, we are righteous, etc.
Things that takes your contentment:
- Speculation - if only this... live in the past.
- Jealousy
James 3:16 (NLT)
- Self pity - we need to stop feel sorry for ourselves
Phil 4 : 13 I can do all things through HIM who strengthens me.
What so great about being single?
- Spontaneous
- Freedom
- Flexibility
- Time alone
Key Question #1 : Are you pursuing other things so vigorously that you are loosing your contentment in God?
Commitment
Key Question #2 : What has been your attention, affection, and attraction?
Caution
- Purpose - fulfill God's purpose
- Parents - seeking counsel from your parents
- Preparation - Do your planning and prepare your fields before building your house. Pr 24:27
27 Finish your outdoor work
and get your fields ready;
after that, build your house.
Key Question #3 : Does this person complement my ministry and passion for Christ?
For Parents
Teach the benefits of marriage and singleness
Christian values over Traditional values
For the rest of us
Our objective is to fulfill God's purpose - marriage can be a deal maker or a deal breaker for God's purpose (e.q John Wesley)
Respect those called to singleness.
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