Singleness and dating are some of the highest-volume search topics in Christian forums, and scripture's posture is unexpectedly honoring of singleness. Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 7:32-35 that the single person can be devoted to the Lord in a way the married person cannot — not because marriage is lesser, but because singleness has its own undistracted gift.
On dating, scripture is clearer in principle than in detail. 2 Corinthians 6:14 — "Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers" — is the most-cited verse about choosing a partner. The principle isn't snobbery; it's that the deepest agreements in a marriage form around what each person worships, and that mismatch erodes the relationship over years.
Psalm 37:4 — "Delight thyself also in the Lord; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart" — is often misread as a transactional formula. The fuller reading is that as you delight in God, the very desires of your heart get reshaped toward what is good for you.
Practical wisdom: don't outsource your wholeness to a future spouse. Don't ignore character for chemistry. Listen to the friends who know you. Pray honestly about whether you're rushing or stalling. And if singleness is your portion for now — or forever — Philippians 4:11-13 promises contentment in any circumstance "through Christ which strengtheneth me." See also marriage, patience, and trust.
Verses
1 Corinthians 7:32-35
I want you to be free from concern. The unmarried man is concerned about the work of the Lord, how he can please the Lord. But the married man is concerned about the affairs of this world, how he can please his wife, and his interests are divided. The unmarried woman or virgin is concerned about the work of the Lord, how she can be holy in both body and spirit. But the married woman is concerned about the affairs of this world, how she can please her husband. I am saying this for your own good, not to restrict you, but in order to promote proper decorum and undivided devotion to the Lord.
Psalms 37:4
Delight yourself in the LORD, and He will give you the desires of your heart.
Matthew 6:33
But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you.
2 Corinthians 6:14
Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership can righteousness have with wickedness? Or what fellowship does light have with darkness?
Genesis 2:18
The LORD God also said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make for him a suitable helper.”
Philippians 4:11-13
I am not saying this out of need, for I have learned to be content regardless of my circumstances. I know how to live humbly, and I know how to abound. I am accustomed to any and every situation—to being filled and being hungry, to having plenty and having need. I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.
Reflection
If marriage is what God has for you next, what would it look like to become — now — the person your future spouse needs?
Related topics
Want to search by feeling instead? Type what's on your heart on the home page.