The BBC news website has published a collection of reader’s stories about being single. This grew out of an initial radio broadcast and article about why couples are “so mean” to singletons. As a result most of the stories defend the advantages of being single.
What struck me was how self-focused most of their comments are. A big emphasis on freedom to do what you like when you like. The lack of ties and duty. A smorgasbord of sexual partners to choose from. Avoiding the stresses of being in a difficult relationship.
This is such a contrast to the biblical view. Yes, there are times when other Christians are tactless or even hurtful. But the Bible isn’t!
When I turn to Scripture, I find that a life of singleness is seen as a good and valuable gift, one I can use to serve both God and others:
“An unmarried man is concerned about the Lord’s affairs—how he can please the Lord. But a married man is concerned about the affairs of this world—how he can please his wife— and his interests are divided. An unmarried woman or virgin is concerned about the Lord’s affairs: Her aim is to be devoted to the Lord in both body and spirit. But a 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 that you may live in a right way in undivided devotion to the Lord.” 1 Corinthians 7 v 32-35
This has certainly been true in my own experience. For more than 25 years I’ve had the privilege of serving God in a number of full-time Christian jobs. That would have been impossible as a married woman, especially if I were also a mum. I also have opportunities to use my time to care for and support others. I don’t mean that being single means I’m somehow more spiritual than others – I’m not! – but it does give me the time and energy to use the gifts God has given me to serve Him.
And that’s what’s missing from the readers’ stories on the BBC website. Their desires and choices are almost always about themselves. Not one mentions singleness as an advantage for serving others. Which is just one reason why I prefer the biblical view.
Alison Mitchell is a Senior Editor at The Good Book Company, where she has worked on a range of products including Bible-reading notes for children and families, and the Christianity Explored range of resources. She is the bestselling author of The Christmas Promise and the award-winning Jesus and the Lions' Den.
