It can be very tempting to look at the search for a partner as a sprint and not a marathon. This becomes especially true when all of your friends seem to be finding instant results and when TV and movies make you think it always happens in under an hour and a half.
Today, we want to talk about reframing our view on this and what the Bible says to encourage us.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” – Philippians 4:6
Often, outside influences can help to make us anxious that we’re not going to find that perfect person in the right amount of time. We already alluded to a few (the media and our friend’s results), but there are a lot more. There’s pressure to “stay ahead of your biological clock,” pressure from family saying things like “when am I getting grandkids,” and the societal pressures that if you’re single for a long time, “something must be wrong with you.”
It can be incredibly tempting to let these viewpoints dictate how you feel and even how you date. Today, we’d like to challenge that. The Bible doesn’t say, “For the world knows the plans it has for you…” It says that God knows the plans he has for you. If we allow ourselves to be affected by these comments and what we’re seeing around us, it’s pushing back on what we know to be true.
If we truly are rooted in the truth that God is in control and knows what is best for us, we have nothing to worry about! Now, that can be easier said than done sometimes. Thankfully, Paul gives us some great direction in the Book of Philippians.
After instructing us not to be anxious about ANYTHING, he acknowledges that there will be situations when it happens. He provides an amazing plan of attack, though. By prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
Take your anxieties to God. Share with Him what is troubling you. And do it from a place of thanksgiving, knowing full well that He is in control. Keep in mind that doing so may not instantly get you the person you’re looking for (it’s not a wishing well), but it can provide peace and understanding that He is in control of the situation.
📝 Here’s Some Reflection Questions:
- Are there things about being single that make you anxious?
- Have you taken these things to the Lord?
- Would memorizing this verse help you to be prepared for situations when the anxiety hits?
Are you a single Christian looking to meet someone special? You can sign up for the Higher Bond App for free now! Click here to learn more or download the app below:
