Today we will talk about bible verses about not marrying. Many Christians wonder about the nature of marriage and whether it is meant for everyone. As we dive into the Scriptures, we discover that not marrying can be a valid path for some believers. God wants us to seek clarity in our personal choices, and these verses can help us reflect on our relationship status and our calling. So, let’s take a moment, open our hearts, and explore what the Bible has to say about not marrying.
Bible Verses About Not Marrying
Purpose of Singleness
In the journey of faith, we recognize that singleness can be a powerful and purposeful state. The Bible reminds us that being single allows us to devote ourselves more fully to God’s work. We don’t have the distractions that marriage might bring, which lets us focus on our personal growth and service. Embracing the purpose of our own unique journeys can help us see the beauty in our current state, whether single or in a relationship. Let’s dive into the Scriptures that speak to this purpose of singleness.
1 Corinthians 7:7
“I wish that all of you were as I am. But each of you has your own gift from God; one has this gift, another has that.” – 1 Corinthians 7:7
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.” – Matthew 19:12
1 Corinthians 7:32
“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.” – 1 Corinthians 7:32
1 Corinthians 7:34
“An unmarried woman 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.” – 1 Corinthians 7:34
Luke 20:34-36
“Jesus replied, ‘The people of this age marry and are given in marriage. But those who are considered worthy of taking part in the age to come and in the resurrection from the dead will neither marry nor be given in marriage.'” – Luke 20:34-36
Contentment in Singleness
Contentment is an essential aspect of our lives, and in the context of singleness, it shows us that we can find joy and fulfillment without a romantic partner. The Bible teaches that we can live fully and freely, enjoying God’s blessings without feeling incomplete. In embracing this contentment, we discover a deeper relationship with God as we rely on Him to fulfill our needs. Let’s explore the Word regarding being content while being single.
Philippians 4:11
“I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.” – Philippians 4:11
1 Timothy 6:6
“But godliness with contentment is great gain.” – 1 Timothy 6:6
Hebrews 13:5
“Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.'” – Hebrews 13:5
Psalm 37:4
“Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.” – Psalm 37:4
2 Corinthians 12:9
“But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” – 2 Corinthians 12:9
The Importance of Seeking God
It’s crucial to remind ourselves that our primary pursuit should be our relationship with God. This perspective allows us to find peace and guidance in life decisions, including marriage. By seeking God’s will, we allow Him to lead us in the right direction, whether that be embracing singleness or feeling the call to marry. Let’s explore the Word that encourages us to prioritize our relationship with God above all else.
Matthew 6:33
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” – Matthew 6:33
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.” – Proverbs 3:5-6
James 1:5
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” – James 1:5
Psalm 119:105
“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” – Psalm 119:105
John 15:5
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me, you can do nothing.” – John 15:5
The Gift of Singleness
We learn through scripture that singleness is not a burden but a gift from God. Just as some are blessed with the gift of marriage, others receive the gift of being single for a reason. This gift allows us more freedom to fulfill God’s purpose and gives us the time to strengthen our faith without the additional responsibilities a spouse brings. Let’s explore verses that highlight the beauty and significance of this divine gift.
1 Corinthians 7:8
“Now to the unmarried and the widows I say: It is good for them to stay unmarried, as I do.” – 1 Corinthians 7:8
1 Corinthians 7:38
“So then, he who marries the virgin does right, but he who does not marry her does better.” – 1 Corinthians 7:38
1 Peter 4:10
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” – 1 Peter 4:10
Ephesians 2:10
“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” – Ephesians 2:10
Romans 12:6
“We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith.” – Romans 12:6
Freedom and Independence
Being single grants us a unique kind of freedom and independence. When we focus on the Bible verses about not marrying, we recognize that this independence allows us to explore our dreams and passions. We can be flexible with our time and energy, and we can follow where God leads us without the considerations that accompany marriage. Let’s see what scripture has to say about this wonderful freedom we can experience in our singleness.
Galatians 5:1
“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” – Galatians 5:1
1 Corinthians 9:19
“Though I am free and belong to no one, I have made myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible.” – 1 Corinthians 9:19
John 8:36
“So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” – John 8:36
Romans 14:8
“If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord. So whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.” – Romans 14:8
Philippians 1:21
“For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.” – Philippians 1:21
Calling and Devotion
As we read through the Bible verses about not marrying, we are reassured that our calling can be different and uniquely designed. Each of us has a purpose, and for some, that may involve not pursuing marriage. Our devotion to God’s mission can often require undivided attention, allowing us to serve in ways that married individuals cannot. Let’s reflect on verses that affirm our calling and devotion to God’s work, no matter our relationship status.
Colossians 3:23
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” – Colossians 3:23
2 Timothy 1:9
“He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace.” – 2 Timothy 1:9
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.” – 1 Corinthians 7:17
Romans 12:1
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.” – Romans 12:1
Acts 20:24
“However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.” – Acts 20:24
Relationships Outside of Marriage
It’s essential to appreciate that there are enriching relationships we can build outside of marriage. While God might not call everyone to marry, He invites us to foster friendships and community bonds that deeply enrich our lives. The Bible presents many beautiful examples of relationships that thrive without the need for marriage, serving as reminders of the power of connectedness and support. Let’s explore Scripture about the essence of these relationships.
Proverbs 17:17
“A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.” – Proverbs 17:17
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.” – Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
John 15:13
“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” – John 15:13
Proverbs 27:17
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” – Proverbs 27:17
1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11
The Value of Inner Growth
Focusing on inner growth is crucial, especially for singles. The Bible encourages us to develop virtues such as patience, kindness, and self-control, which enrich our lives and prepare us for whatever God has planned. By embracing this time for personal development, we can strengthen our character and deepen our faith. Let’s take a moment to reflect on the scriptures that emphasize the importance of inner growth during periods of singleness.
Galatians 5:22-23
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” – Galatians 5:22-23
James 1:2-4
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” – James 1:2-4
Proverbs 4:23
“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” – Proverbs 4:23
Romans 5:3-4
“Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” – Romans 5:3-4
2 Peter 1:5-7
“For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love.” – 2 Peter 1:5-7
Final Thoughts
As we’ve journeyed through these thoughtful verses about not marrying, we have discovered the beauty and purpose behind the single life. Whether we are currently single or contemplating this path, we see that God has a unique plan for each of us. Embracing our relationship with God through prayer and understanding can lead us to a fulfilling life, regardless of our marital status.
We are reminded that being single can allow for personal growth, spiritual development, and deep friendships that enrich our lives. Let us find comfort in God’s calling and seek to serve Him wholeheartedly, no matter where we are in our lives.
May we continue to cherish the freedom and independence given to us during our time of singleness and trust that God is with us every step of the way. Whether single or married, each relationship we have with ourselves, with God, and with others can blossom beautifully.
Further Reading
30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)
4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4