Singleness: a devotion on family

From an Africa Study Bible article titled “Singleness”:

“My daughter, when will I be a grandmother?” Among her people, Charity’s singleness brings shame and dishonour to the family. Unmarried, Charity cannot have children or fetch the bride price. It must be Charity’s fault for not trying harder to find a husband.

Many believe that a single woman needs a man for protection, the primary purpose of women is to produce children, and singleness breeds sexual promiscuity. It is also assumed that a man will marry, establish a home, and rear children who will help take care of him when he is old. To be an elder and a model male citizen is inconsistent with singleness.

Women often desire to get married, but the opportunity has not arisen yet. In former times, women needed to marry in order to survive, but now they can support themselves because they have good educations and jobs. Some women may prefer to maintain their independence instead of living in a dependent or abusive relationship with a man. Single men may make similar choices. Our single adult children find their place when we reduce our demands on them.

The church can help single people. Church members could invite singles for celebrations like Christmas or take them to the clinic when they are sick. Single women who are widows often lose their land or are unable to provide for themselves and their families. The Bible says that widows and other vulnerable people are especially important to God. The church needs to love widows and singles as God does.

In 1 Corinthians 7, Paul calls his singleness a “gift.” Just like other spiritual gifts, God gives singleness to some people so they can build up the body of Christ. Jesus and Paul both indicate that some people decide on a life of singleness so they can serve God better. 

We must remember to appreciate single people as God’s gift to our community. The lives of single people can be full of rich relationships with God and others. When we are thankful for one another, we will realise how much single people add to their communities. 

Today:

Regardless of your marital status, look for a single person in your church who you can befriend. Whatever state you are in, follow God with integrity and use your gifts to strengthen the church and the community.