ELEV8 Magazine MAR / APRIL 2016 | Page 62

You are already somebody! God loves you whether you are single or married. The deception of being less than because you are single is a false sense of identity.  Living a single life takes self-control and determination. A single life can be amazing when your priorities are in the right perspective. Remember you are the apple of God's eye whether single or married and your first priority is to gain life, and it more abundantly through relationship withChrist Jesus. While Waiting: A Single’s Perspective By Partice Smith There’s a great deal of conversation happening, surrounding the plight of Christian dating and preparation for marriage. In a world that lacks understanding of our belief system and godly principles, we often combat what they condone. However, a greater battle can be found within the four walls of the church. As most leaders teach singles to get ready for marriage instead of getting to know themselves better. For instance, there’s much controversy around being single, as if, everyone is desiring marriage tomorrow. Contrary to popular beliefs, all singles aren’t hard up for intimacy, and “boo” status, a good part are content waiting for godly relationships. Believing singles live by God’s Word, and wait on the Lord. Might I share a few things to consider before entertaining marital bliss. First, “Are you ready to sacrifice your time?” To give unrelenting until death do you part. Do you have the energy to love unselfishly? Are you ready to share and love unconditionally, an imperfect person? If you cannot answer yes unequivocally to these questions, then it’s not your season to be married. Next, "Are you content being alone?" If you were to never get married, would you still enjoy life? Would you be satisfied living single? These are questions to ask yourself. Don’t let the propaganda of not being married allow you to lose your faith in God’s promises for you as an individual. Finally ask yourself, “Why you want to get married?” It is because of stability, or intimacy? Getting married doesn’t make you whole or complete. Your self-value should not be based on who you walk beside. It’s determined by who lives in you. Christ on the inside completes you, making you a better you, regardless of your candidacy for marriage. If and when He decides you’re ready for a mate, a spouse, a significant other, a boo, is completely in His timing. Until then wait on the Lord to send the one that is uniquely designed for you. Scripture says, “He that finds a wife, finds a good thing and obtains favor with man and the Lord.”  I purpose that you live your life single and satisfied, until you are ready for marriage. Ladies, allow yourself to be so hidden in Christ, that the only way one can find you is through relationship with Him. Until next time remember to love you, until God sends the one created to love you more. Live your life on purpose, with purpose, only found in God's will for your life.