Is singleness a bad thing?

Is singleness a bad thing?

Even when I rededicated my life to Christ, being single has been a challenge along the way. From temptation at every turn, to bearing loneliness in such a heartbreakingly aching way that it almost crushed me daily; to seeing so many happily married; to accepting where God wants me. But we do not bear these things alone.

Each time I fought against this single season, all that the fights and angst has caused me is unnecessary pain. Yes there was always going to be the sting of being alone. In these past three and a half years of being single, I can say now that I am SO blessed to have been given this gift from God. You know what this gift has entailed?

Time with Jesus.

Tomorrow is never promised, but every day He has granted me on this earth to know Him better has been beautiful. What other time in my life will I live at home, have no spouse, no children, and no full time ministry? I had squandered it for so long in the beginning; however, now, these sweet, precious intimate moments with the Lord are so valuable to me. Yes, I acknowledge how painful it can be, how lonely it can be, how desperate it can feel at times, but in this what feels like a long season, I can say that I am so glad God has given me the endurance and strength to carry on. Yes, to ride through every hurricane and make it to the other side holding His hand; the hand of my Savior. My Jesus. His grace and mercy not only cover my sins, but also my glaring weakness. His mercy ever so graciously and gentle on my heart in times of need when I turn to Him for comfort, learning that all other forms of comfort are like drinking saltwater in a desert. His joy has been phenomenal. Joy in a sorrowful season can only come from God.

I have learnt through this gift of time that God is the center of my universe, and that HE is how I am sustained. I have learnt that my life, my walk, my someday death, is all for Him and His will. I am content and at peace with my singleness.

Christine McDonald
Christine is in the dance team at her church; she has a heart to write and evangelize for the Lord. Her heart is all sold out for her King; and that all will come to know her Lord and Savior!