Single and Not Sorry: Devotions of Real Encouragement for Right NowSample

Stick to Your Standards

Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.

ROMANS 12:2 CSB

As kids, most of us were taught to have standards for our significant other. We talk about our “dream guy” with friends, or older ladies ask us, “What exactly are you looking for?” Television shows joke about “deal breakers,” and movies remind us that a potential significant other’s qualities can be right but not right for us. We spend hours as kids daydreaming about our Prince Charming, imagining a meet-cute where we bump into the ideal guy. The picture’s a little fuzzy, but the excitement is there. But fast forward a few years, and you may start questioning that picture, questioning your standards.

If you’ve been single for a while, you’ve probably heard something like “Are you sure your standards aren’t too high?” or “It seems as though you’re looking for the perfect man.” Hear this: standards for a significant other are a good, God-given thing. Don’t lower your standards because of external pressure or loneliness. Don’t settle. Paul tells us in Romans that we should pursue the will of God for our lives, working to dwell in His plan instead of abiding by the standards of success the world dictates. This applies to our standards for our future partners as well. If you know that your boyfriend needs to be a strong Christian, maintain that conviction even when it gets tough. If you believe that your mate needs to be empathetic toward others, don’t settle for less. God has given you these standards because He loves you and He wants to see you flourish in a romantic relationship. He is for you. Align your heart and your standards with God, and feel free to daydream.

Right Now Reminder:

You do not need to lower your standards for anyone. Being single while upholding your standards is better than being in a relationship because you settled.