No one wants to be alone, at least not forever. We long for companionship in some form or another, whether it is a soulmate to share life with, a good friend to talk to or a family member to be close by. Even most introverted people want another person around at some point. God created us to be in relationship with others and to need each other in a healthy way. But what about the deep longing that lies within the hearts of many to find that special someone with whom they can be with for the rest of their lives?
The desire to have a soul mate with whom you can share life with is a good desire. God Himself said, “It is not good for man to be alone.” Even in the Garden of Eden, before the Fall occurred and twisted life as it was designed to be, God included in His design that man and woman walk together. One whole book in the Old Testament celebrates the love between a man and woman (Song of Solomon, sometimes called Song of Songs). Jesus performed His first miracle at a wedding and spoke of the sacredness of marriage. The Apostle Paul also taught about God’s design for such a union.
Today is Valentine’s Day and it is a great opportunity to celebrate God’s design for marriage. What is that design? Scripture has much to say about it, and many books, songs and poems have been written along the same line. Boiled down to its core, marriage is when one man and one woman enter into a sacred covenant with each other in the presence of God and devote themselves to fulfilling His design for them. This design includes a Christ-like, mutual love and devotion, reflecting Christ’s love for the church.
Many are celebrating today by sending cards, flowers, chocolate and other expressions of love. Others will loathe the day because it seems to only accentuate their own loneliness, while still others consider it a day just like any other day. Is there a reason for all of us to celebrate? Yes! If you are married, celebrate that God has gifted you with your spouse and express that love. If you are happily dating, thank God and seek His will and design for the relationship. If you are single and looking for someone, make your request to God, trust Him and in the meantime, use your singleness to serve Him in ways you would not be able to if you were married. If you are single and want to remain that way, celebrate what God is doing for others and support them in their journey.
“Let marriage be held in honor among all....”[i]
Gracious God, You gave humanity the gift of marriage.
It is a beautiful gift and worthy of being celebrated. Help me to do my part
to honor the sacred gift, no matter what the path You have called me
to walk is, whether it be as a married person or as a single person.
In Jesus’ name, amen.
[i] Hebrews 13:5 – ESV
Comments