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How do you know if you are called to celibacy?

JAM2b

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I didn't read any responses, so I don't know if someone else has already said this or what arguments might have been made.

If being celibate is what you want, then it doesn't matter if you are called to it. No one has to be called to be celibate. No one has to be called to be married either. Generally speaking, both are options to us all. Is there a calling to be celibate for some? Probably, but I would think that would be for people who either don't know what they want or people who might prefer to be married but God has other plans.

As far as not having a healthy view of sex, that's something that needs to be addressed whether you are planning to be celibate or not. And it is not a reason to make a personal commitment to life-long celibacy because if whatever is causing your sexual problem gets healed and you meet someone you love, then you are facing the fact you made a commitment or vow or whatever you choose to do in regard to this. God desires that we be whole, complete, and healthy, in all areas of life, including sexual, whether it is something that is going to be part of your life or not. I don't think it is something you have to rush in to solve right now. It's ok if it takes a while, and it could be that other areas of your life need to be healed first. It could also be that if other problems you have are resolved or coping skill are gained, then the sexual issues might resolve themselves. Maturity also will play a huge role in this.

If you were called, then you would know and would not need to ask. The option is still there for you, called or not. I would hold off on making any personal commitments though. Celibacy is right for this season of your life. It might always be right for you. Then again, things might change and marriage could become a very real and healthy option for you.

You don't have to have the plan for the rest of your whole life right now. Live one season at a time.
 
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Sir Robbins

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I've said it before on other threads, but I don't understand how people can think they can better serve the community/church/God while single. God created marriage for this exact purpose! It's not meant to be a place where you go off on your own together and just forget about serving. Two people together can do more than one. A whole family serving does a great work together.

God Himself said it's not good for man to be alone. There's nothing wrong at all with desiring a relationship, sex, companionship, marriage and kids. He instills that desire in us. I just think the church has done a great job at demonizing the desire for a relationship, some denominations more than others.

I just don't believe lifelong celibacy is something God wants for the vast majority of people. I also don't think you realize a lot of these thoughts you're having are a result of the bad situation you're in.

you think churches demonize relationships? Try being single in a church. It sucks more than anything else. Sit by yourself in the congregation, walk in and out alone, ect.
 
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Saucy

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you think churches demonize relationships? Try being single in a church. It sucks more than anything else. Sit by yourself in the congregation, walk in and out alone, ect.
If you read closely, I didn't say they demonize relationships. I said they demonize the DESIRE for a relationship, as if you're a horrible sinner because you desire sex or companionship. We're supposed to just wave our hands in the air and 'get over' God-given healthy desires.
 
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Sir Robbins

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If you read closely, I didn't say they demonize relationships. I said they demonize the DESIRE for a relationship, as if you're a horrible sinner because you desire sex or companionship. We're supposed to just wave our hands in the air and 'get over' God-given healthy desires.

I knew what you meant and what I typed came out wrong and for that, I apologize.

The church abuses singles quite drastically and their attitude is insane. I used to volunteer (when I had time) for ding camera and video related work and when I told them no at times, they acted like I was just avoiding church. One person even made the comment "it's not like you have anything else to do".
 
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redblue22

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I knew what you meant and what I typed came out wrong and for that, I apologize.

The church abuses singles quite drastically and their attitude is insane. I used to volunteer (when I had time) for ding camera and video related work and when I told them no at times, they acted like I was just avoiding church. One person even made the comment "it's not like you have anything else to do".

Why do you choose to stay around those people?
 
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Sir Robbins

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Why stay around those people?

I don't and haven't for some years. I don't go around churches at all. It happened at multiple ones. I told many I couldn't commit every Sunday because of my business so they didn't want me (even some of the time). I got sick of it. Done with churches I'm afraid.
 
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