In today's society, single people are constantly bombarded with messages that can affect our self-image. Television commercials show happy, smiling couples involved in activities from eating to buying cars. Magazines, books, and movies also present perfect couples and families. Very few of these mediums recognize and applaud singlehood. Little wonder many of us feel alone, left out, incomplete. Society's message to "become a couple" or "get married" can cause us to become despondent and make us feel less than whole.
Should society's definition of completeness matter? Should singles be concerned about the image of what it means to be fulfilled, happy, and whole? What role does Christ play in our definition of who we are? What is God's image and purpose for our lives? When we embrace society's ideals and values, we often loose sight of the godly purpose for our lives as Christian singles.
In the seventh chapter of First Corinthians, Paul wrote of the states of singleness and marriage. He wished that the Corinthians could remain as he was--single, but advised them to marry as opposed to falling into temptation. Paul recognized the unique position of a Christian single.
As Christian singles, we can more easily dedicate our time and talents to God's work. We can focus our attention more readily on the task given to us by God. Paul saw the importance of having a band of single believers who were ready, willing and able to do God's will. Such groups are desperately needed today. All Christians should seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness as it states in Matthew 6:33. However, Paul knew that as singles, we would have more singleness of purpose to do so.
Just as the body of Christ has many members and each member has a purpose and gifts, Christian singles have specific purposes for the up-building of God's kingdom. True wholeness comes when we are able to identify our purposes and use our gifts to edify the Body of Christ.
As I once heard it said, Christian singles are separate, unique and whole. Marriage and singleness are both important and crucial to God's plan. One is not better than the other--just different. When we as Christian singles can appreciate ourselves, our single state, and our role in the Master Plan, we then become more effective disciples for Christ.
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