As Christian singles, one of the most challenging aspects of life can be waiting for the right relationship. The desire to find someone who complements your faith, values, and life’s calling is natural, but the key is trusting God’s timing and making choices aligned with His will. In a world that encourages rushing into relationships, it’s essential to remember that God’s timing is perfect, and His plans for you are good (Jeremiah 29:11).
Understanding God’s timing in relationships requires faith and patience. Ecclesiastes 3:1 reminds us that "there is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens." This truth applies to relationships as well. Often, we may feel the urge to take matters into our own hands, but it’s important to surrender our timeline to God and trust that He is working in the background, preparing both us and our future partner. While waiting, focus on growing in your relationship with Christ and becoming the person God has called you to be. Psalm 27:14 encourages us to "wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage."
Discernment and seeking God’s will are crucial in making the right choice in relationships. Proverbs 3:5-6 instructs us to trust in the Lord with all our hearts and lean not on our own understanding, but in all our ways, acknowledge Him, and He will make our paths straight. When it comes to relationships, this means seeking God’s guidance through prayer and His Word. Discernment involves paying attention to how God may be leading you, and it also means listening to wise counsel from trusted spiritual mentors and friends. Not every relationship is from God, and it’s important to carefully evaluate if someone shares your values, vision, and faith in a way that will honor Christ in the long run.
Taking practical steps toward a godly courtship requires intentionality. A godly courtship is different from worldly dating because it is purposeful and rooted in the desire to glorify God. Romans 12:2 reminds us not to conform to the patterns of this world but to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. When entering a relationship, ask yourself if this person aligns with your faith and values, and whether both of you are committed to seeking God’s will. Establish boundaries early on to maintain purity and protect each other’s hearts (1 Thessalonians 4:3-7). Building your relationship on trust, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to Christ will help you discern if this person is who God has intended for you.
Making the commitment to marry is a significant step and should not be taken lightly. Marriage is a covenant, not just a contract, and it reflects the relationship between Christ and the church (Ephesians 5:25-27). Before making the commitment to marry, both partners should be certain of their calling to one another, and that this relationship is grounded in God’s love and His plan for your lives. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 provides a powerful description of what true, Christ-like love looks like—love that is patient, kind, and does not keep a record of wrongs. This kind of love is sacrificial and selfless, and it is essential to the foundation of a strong marriage.
As you reflect on your relationship journey, remember that trusting God’s timing and making the right choice is about surrendering your desires to Him and allowing Him to guide your steps. God cares deeply about the details of your life, and He knows your heart’s desires. Proverbs 16:9 reminds us that "in their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps." While you wait and seek, continue to trust that God’s plan is far better than anything you could imagine for yourself.
Committing to God’s design for marriage is ultimately about submitting to His perfect will. Marriage, in God’s design, is a sacred union meant to reflect His love, grace, and faithfulness. It is a lifelong partnership rooted in serving God together and glorifying Him through your union. Ephesians 5:31-32 speaks of the profound mystery of marriage as it relates to Christ and the church. As you move forward, remember that a godly relationship requires a foundation in Christ, patience, and trust in His timing.
In the waiting and in the choosing, know that God is shaping you and preparing you for the partner He has for you. Trust in His timing, seek His will, and rest in the assurance that He knows what’s best for you.
Hope Expression celebrates you.
Prince Victor Matthew
Comments