Understanding God s View Of Relationships. (A Single s Perspective)

Transcription

1 Understanding God s View Of Relationships (A Single s Perspective)

2 The Definition Of Single The word single refers to an individuals marital status. Singles are a diverse group made up of the never married, divorced and widowed. They make up a large part of our society and this fact is also reflective in the church. Today, more than ever before, the church recognizes singleness as an acceptable lifestyle. This is evident in the establishment of single ministries and the realization of the great potential that exists among singles to contribute and work in the kingdom of God.

3 Single Parenting Just as we ve seen a rise in the numbers of singles in our society; it follows that the numbers of single parents in the church has increased as well. There is a great need for the church to especially embrace singles that fall into this category without judgement. These nontraditional families have an even greater need for love, belonging, and acceptance. Scripture Reference: James 1:27

4 Single Parenting Cont Single parents can look to God s word for guidance in the rearing of their children just as those who are married. Although, they face many challenges, the promises of God hold true for them as well. God is no respecter of persons. As Christians, faced with the responsibility of parenting alone, singles should groom and nurture their children in the ways of the Lord. In addition, they should cultivate the child s own special talents and abilities in the service of the Lord. Scripture Reference: Prov. 22:6; 13:24

5 Celibacy An individual is said to be celibate when their lifestyle is one of sexual abstinence or they remain unmarried for religious reasons. The Apostle Paul appears to have had the gift of celibacy. Those who practice celibacy are empowered by the Holy Ghost to control their sexual desires and not seek to satisfy them. Jesus, in his teachings to the Pharisees regarding marriage and divorce recognized celibacy as a special calling or gifting. Scripture Reference: Matt. 19:10-12

6 Different from the World The Bible teaches us the importance of loving and honoring others as we love ourselves. It tells us we should esteem others higher than ourselves. As Christian singles, our relationships should honor God and not compromise our faith in any way. Although the Bible does not specifically refer to dating and courtship, it does give instruction on how Christians should behave in the time before marriage. As Christian singles, we do not share the world s view on love and dating. Scripture Reference: John 17:16; Heb. 13:4; Lev. 20:13; Rom. 1:24-28; II Cor. 6:14; Rom. 12:1-2

7 Marriage As Christians we do not embrace sex outside of marriage, sex or marriage between members of the same sex, or marriage to unbelievers. The Apostle Paul in his encouragement of singleness also recognized that marriage was preferable in order to avoid sexual immorality. Scripture Reference: I Cor. 7:1-2, 7-9; I Tim. 5:14

8 The Case for Singleness The Christian single has an advantage when it comes to devotion to the things of God. They are able to give themselves to a greater degree without distraction of obligations and issues associated with marriage. The Apostle Paul talked about this during his own ministry. Marriage is not an end all. If one has issues as a single person, just getting married will not solve them. Singles should concentrate on becoming a complete person in Christ so that in the event you find a mate, you are bringing something to the table; a complete person in their own right. Scripture Reference: I Cor. 7:32-35, 40

9 Other Advantages of Singleness Time to work out personal problems and to mature. Freedom to move and go where you wish. Opportunity to set and accomplish personal goals.

10 Contentment in Singleness It is important for Christian singles to be content in their singleness without the preoccupation of finding someone to marry. The saying the grass is always greener on the other side does not always hold true. The single person who is anxious for marriage is sure to experience frustration and discontentment. Singles can find contentment in the fact that they are in a unique position to manifest the works of God, declare his glory in the world, and demonstrate the sufficiency of God in their lives. Scripture Reference: Philip. 4:11-13; I Tim. 6:6

11 Things To Remember The goal of Christians, single or married, is to live a life that glorifies God. Preoccupation with marital status should not take the place of our relationship with God. He has called us to holiness and a committed relationship with him. We can take comfort in knowing that in Christ, we are complete and lack nothing. God is our sufficiency and wants us to look to him for all that we need and not another person. Scripture Reference: Prov. 3:5-7; Psa. 37:4-5; Matt. 6:33

12 What To Do Singles, talk to God about your desires when it comes to relationships. Ask him for the discernment and wisdom in making relationship choices. Seek advice from mature brothers and sisters in Christ who have much to share and teach you. Finally, seek guidance from your Pastor, who watches for your soul. God bless you singles! Scripture Reference: James 1:5; Philip. 4:6-7