DaveKerwin said:Let's remember that you are not given the gift of singleness by default because romance never worked for you. Singleness IS a gift, given by God, and he does not give it just because you struck out on the love scene. The gift is purposeful, and intentional.
No one should say they have this gift unless they really do. The Bible says that when we are married, our interests are divided between our spouse and God. The single person has the advantage in ministry because their devotion can be purely towards God, no divided interest. This is an honorable thing. Paul was very proud of his singleness and his serving Christ in that. So the gift is something you are called to, NOT something you get by default.
I use to think the same way. And sometimes I do! But I've seen MANY marriage couples that are great together. No marriage is perfect, but it's something that if you choose to go into, you gotta work at it, CONSTANTLY, and ask God for His guidance and patience. I'm really not ready for that, but I think one day I'll be (I HOPE!). I don't wanna stay alone forever!!alonesoldier said:I would never get married. I don't care what the cirumstances are or what the grand design is. I refuse. Every married person I know is miserable.
Donny_B said:I Cor 7 could be on the back of your mind which states that if divorced you should remain unmarried, or else reconcile with your first spouse (I Cor 7:10-11). Such a reconciliation might be impossible in your situation. If he is remarried this would constitute adultery on his part (Mark 10:11-12).
I have really never thought of this subject that much..
I did find this thread discussing the topic: http://www.christianforums.com/t6005
alonesoldier said:Am i completely wrong for thinking that getting married so you can have sex is really wierd. I mean we all are imperfect humans, doesn't that become at least a hidden motive when your pushing thirty and your still a virgin? Just a question, not trying to be argumenative.
Hound said:For those of us who are alone, and will probably be alone for a long time to come, is it acceptable to resign yourself to not even bothering with relationships? To learn to lie, unflinching, and say that I am happy alone? I guess I should have married ol'whatsername.
Donny_B said:If your spouse dies, you are clearly permitted to remarry. If your spouse commits adultery, is he or she treated as if they are dead? The marriage vows are for better for worse, until death do you part, and as long as you both shall live.
The clear lesson is for those who are never-married, to be very careful in who they walk down the aisle with. The vows are for a lifetime, not until the next divorce. Are you sure you want to live with the same person for the rest of your life, to see the same face all the time. If the answer is yes, then marriage is for you. But, if you can't stand the person a year later, then too bad, you already said "I do".
Paul was unmarried and didn't really dwell on it, he just wrote a chapter or two on it, and that's it. And we shouldn't dwell on it. Get on with your life. There are much more important things in the world happening to think about.