Being unmarried is a topic the Bible addresses with wisdom and encouragement. Today, we’ll look at how Scripture speaks to the blessings and opportunities of singleness in God’s plan.
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What Does The Bible Say About Being Unmarried
1 Corinthians 7:8
“Now to the unmarried and the widows I say: It is good for them to stay unmarried, as I do.”
This verse highlights the value of remaining unmarried, as Paul himself did. It emphasizes that being single is a valid and honorable choice, allowing individuals to fully dedicate themselves to serving God without distraction.
1 Corinthians 7:32-34
“I would like you to be free from concern. An unmarried man is concerned about the Lord’s affairs—how he can please the Lord. But a married man is concerned about the affairs of this world—how he can please his wife— and his interests are divided. An unmarried woman or virgin is concerned about the Lord’s affairs: Her aim is to be devoted to the Lord in both body and spirit. But a married woman is concerned about the affairs of this world—how she can please her husband.”
In this passage, Paul highlights the freedom and undivided devotion an unmarried person can have in serving the Lord. It emphasizes the potential distractions and divided interests that come with marriage and encourages believers to carefully consider the advantages of remaining single.
Matthew 19:12
“For there are eunuchs who were born that way, and there are eunuchs who have been made eunuchs by others—and there are those who choose to live like eunuchs for the sake of the kingdom of heaven. The one who can accept this should accept it.”
This verse acknowledges that some individuals may willingly choose to remain unmarried for the sake of dedicating their lives completely to the kingdom of heaven. It shows that celibacy is a valid lifestyle choice and that those who accept it should do so wholeheartedly.
1 Corinthians 7:25-26
“Now about virgins: I have no command from the Lord, but I give a judgment as one who by the Lord’s mercy is trustworthy. Because of the present crisis, I think that it is good for a man to remain as he is.”
Here, Paul shares his judgment regarding unmarried individuals, considering the circumstances of the time. He advises believers to consider remaining in their current state, highlighting that it can be a beneficial choice during times of distress or uncertainty.
Psalms 68:6
“God sets the lonely in families; he leads out the prisoners with singing; but the rebellious live in a sun-scorched land.”
This verse reminds us that God is a refuge for the lonely and the unmarried. It reassures those without a family of their own that God has a place for them and will provide them with the community they need. His love and care extend to all, regardless of marital status.
Proverbs 18:22
“He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the LORD.”
Although this verse speaks specifically about finding a wife, it implies that marriage can bring favor from the Lord. However, it is important to note that it does not diminish the value of being unmarried, as other passages affirm the benefits of remaining single.
Matthew 19:6
“So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.”
While this verse speaks of the unity of marriage, it does not invalidate the choice to remain unmarried. It serves as a reminder of the sacredness of the marital bond and encourages commitment within the context of marriage, but it does not negate the value of being single.
Proverbs 31:30
“Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.”
This verse highlights the importance of inner qualities and character over external attributes. It emphasizes that a woman’s devotion to the Lord is praiseworthy and valuable, irrespective of her marital status.
1 Timothy 4:12
“Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in purity.”
This verse encourages unmarried individuals, particularly the young, to strive to be a positive example to other believers. It emphasizes that age or marital status should not diminish their ability to live with integrity, love, and faithfulness.
Isaiah 54:5
“For your Maker is your husband—the LORD Almighty is His name—the Holy One of Israel is your Redeemer; He is called the God of all the earth.”
This verse portrays God as the ultimate provider, protector, and companion. It reminds unmarried individuals that even without an earthly spouse, they can find fulfillment and satisfaction in their relationship with the Lord.
Proverbs 16:3
“Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and He will establish your plans.”
This verse encourages all believers, including those who are unmarried, to commit their plans and endeavors to the Lord. It assures them that when they trust in Him, He will guide and establish their paths, regardless of their marital status.
Matthew 6:33
“But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
Jesus teaches that seeking God’s kingdom and righteousness should be the primary focus of every believer, regardless of whether they are married or unmarried. This verse encourages unmarried individuals to prioritize their relationship with God above all else, trusting that He will provide for their needs.
Ruth 1:16
“But Ruth replied, “Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God.”
Ruth’s dedication to her mother-in-law, Naomi, showcases the value of loyalty and commitment. While this verse is not specifically about being unmarried, it highlights the importance of making relational choices based on faith and obedience to God’s leading.
1 Peter 5:7
“Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.”
Regardless of marital status, this verse reassures believers that they can cast all their worries and anxieties upon the Lord. It reminds unmarried individuals that they are not alone in their concerns and that God cares for them deeply.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
“Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.”
While this verse speaks to the value of companionship, it does not undermine the worth of being unmarried. It acknowledges the benefits of having support and assistance from others, but also recognizes that an unmarried person can find strength and help in their relationship with God and through their community of believers.
Galatians 3:28
“There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”
This verse emphasizes the equal standing and worth of all believers in Christ. It emphasizes that our identity and value in God’s eyes are not based on our marital status or any worldly distinctions. Unmarried individuals can find comfort in knowing that they are equally loved and valued by God.
James 1:27
“Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.”
This verse highlights the importance of caring for those in need, which extends beyond marital status. Unmarried individuals can find fulfillment in their ability to serve and care for others, particularly those who are vulnerable or in challenging circumstances.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20
“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.”
Irrespective of marital status, this verse emphasizes the importance of honoring God with our bodies. It reminds all believers, including the unmarried, that their bodies are precious and should be treated with respect and purity, as they have been redeemed by the sacrifice of Christ.
Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.”
This verse encourages believers, regardless of their marital status, to place their trust in the Lord and submit to His leading. It reassures unmarried individuals that as they rely on God’s wisdom and guidance, He will direct their paths and guide them in making wise decisions.
Psalm 37:4
“Take delight in the LORD, and He will give you the desires of your heart.”
This verse reminds all believers, including those who are unmarried, to find their joy and satisfaction in the Lord. It assures them that as they align their desires with His will and seek His presence, He will fulfill the deepest longings of their hearts.
Proverbs 3:3-4
“Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man.”
This verse speaks to the importance of embodying love and faithfulness in all aspects of life, regardless of whether one is married or unmarried. It highlights that living with integrity and demonstrating these qualities will bring favor and a good reputation in the sight of both God and others.
1 Peter 3:3-4
“Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.”
This verse reminds all believers, including the unmarried, that true beauty lies within a gentle and quiet spirit that emanates from a heart devoted to God. It emphasizes the eternal value of inner virtues over outward appearances.
1 Corinthians 7:28
“But those who marry will face many troubles in this life, and I want to spare you this.”
Paul acknowledges that marriage, while a blessing, can also bring challenges and difficulties. This verse serves as a reminder to unmarried individuals that they can find freedom from certain struggles by remaining single. It highlights the benefits of being unmarried, particularly in avoiding the potential hardships associated with marriage.
1 Corinthians 7:17
“Nevertheless, each person should live as a believer in whatever situation the Lord has assigned to them, just as God has called them. This is the rule I lay down in all the churches.”
This verse encourages all believers, unmarried or married, to live out their faith faithfully in whatever circumstances they find themselves. It emphasizes that each person’s life is a unique assignment from the Lord, and their obedience and devotion to Him should be unwavering, regardless of their marital status.