I know this post may seem a little early, but let's face it - If I don't write this now, I might not get around to it for another couple of months! My writing energy as of late has been focused on my book. Please agree with me it will be published this year!
Since Christmas, I'm sure you've seen Valentine's decorations and merchandise in every store you've visited. Each year, it seems to get earlier and earlier. Married couples stress out about what to get their spouse (if they get them anything at all). Singles are crudely reminded about their "station" in life. What a joyous occasion, huh? Having experienced Valentine's Day both married and alone, I've learned a lot.
God had me write a brief Valentine's Day message in 2008. If you look through the archived posts, you can find it. Most of it was derived from 1 Corinthians 13. My life was much different, then. During this season of my life, I was actually courting a young lady who later became my wife. Last year, just weeks after renewing our vows on Valentine's Day, she filed for divorce. This post is not about placing blame. It's not a sick solicitation for pity or a plea for feelings of sympathy. This post is an impartation of truth and encouragement. However, I don't think any of us will ever truly get a revelation of God's Word surrounding love. His unfailing love, marriage vows, covenants and oaths are perfect in every way. They are purpose-driven and meant to be kept!
After my divorce, I was left fighting feelings of guilt, failure and condemnation. There was also the battle of purity. Since the devil knew my body wasn't his, he wanted me to lust with my eyes. Since God has given me the ability to shut them when an attractive woman walks by, the devil tried to attack my thoughts. When he learned that I took my thoughts captive and made them obedient to Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5), he started attacking my dreams. During all of this, I never felt released to start talking to members of the opposite sex - at least not in any kind of romantically charged setting. In fact, it quickly became avoiding any relationship (friendship) at all. Was this right or wrong? I still don't know, but I know it protected me. Only in the past week, or so have I felt that I've been released (through much prayer and fasting) to start adding females to my circle and balance of friends. If God opens other doors, I'll walk through them!
All of this being said, I want to address God's single children in this post. It does not matter if you have a boyfriend / girlfriend or fiancee - if you are NOT married (in the eyes of the Lord) you are single and God is speaking to you today.
The following Scripture has been BURNING in my Spirit all week.
"But I want you to be without care. He who is unmarried cares for the things of the Lord - how he may please the Lord. But he who is married cares about the things of the world - how he may please his wife. There is a difference between a wife and a virgin. The unmarried woman cares about the things of the Lord, that she may be holy both in body and in spirit. But she who is married cares about the things of the world - how she may please her husband. And this I say for your own profit, not that I may put a leash on you, but for what is proper, and that you may serve the Lord without distraction." 1 Corinthians 7:32-35 (NKJV)
Admittedly, I use a LOT of Scripture when I write, but I don't feel led to do that today. I know that many of us [singles] desire to have someone in our lives - even those of us with the Godliest of intent. There is nothing wrong with this, but listen to what Paul says. He is essentially telling us that this is a season to fully devote ourselves to the Lord. This season of singlehood has allowed me to serve the church in ways I never thought I could! It has truly been a tremendous blessing and a great joy! But, I also know that God is preparing a Godly wife for me! When I get married (I honored my vows before and I will honor them again), I won't be able to serve like I do now. My wife will be my ministry. God tells us in Genesis 2 that His desire for us is not to be alone! He has a helpmate for those of us who desire one! Add a kid (or two) to the mix and you have now grown your ministry!
Today, I want to encourage you. If you are single, USE THIS SEASON! In the name of Jesus, it's a season you'll only enjoy one time (or for some of us, the last time)!
In Christ,
James
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