In today’s society, singleness can often be viewed as a season of longing, loneliness, or even a stage to be endured until the “right” partner comes along. However, from a biblical perspective, singleness is not something to be pitied or overlooked, but rather a gift and an opportunity to grow deeper in one’s relationship with God and to serve His kingdom. The Bible offers a wealth of wisdom and encouragement for those who are single, guiding them through the challenges and celebrating the unique advantages that singleness can offer.
Singleness is addressed numerous times throughout Scripture, often with a focus on its advantages—both in terms of personal growth and the freedom to serve God with undivided devotion. Jesus and the Apostle Paul both spoke to the value of being single, underscoring the spiritual freedom and opportunities for ministry that come with it. For those who are single, the Bible offers a rich tapestry of verses that remind believers of their worth in Christ, their ability to be fruitful in God’s work, and their invitation to embrace this season as a time of preparation and purpose.
In this article, we will explore 35 Bible verses on singleness, each offering guidance, encouragement, and insight into what it means to be single in a way that honors God. Whether you are in a season of singleness by choice, circumstance, or divine calling, these verses will help you understand how to thrive in this season and find fulfillment in your relationship with Christ.
1. 1 Corinthians 7:7 – Singleness is a Gift
“I wish that all of you were as I am. But each of you has your own gift from God; one has this gift, another has that.” (NIV)
Paul speaks openly about singleness as a gift, recognizing that it is a calling that allows individuals to serve God without distractions. Not everyone is called to marriage, and this verse affirms that singleness is a valid and valuable option.
2. 1 Corinthians 7:32-34 – Unmarried People Have Undivided Devotion to the Lord
“I would like you to be free from concern. 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.” (NIV)
Paul explains that singleness provides an opportunity for undivided devotion to God. Single individuals are free to focus their energy and attention on serving the Lord without the added responsibilities and distractions of marriage.
3. Matthew 19:12 – Embracing Celibacy for the Kingdom of Heaven
“For there are eunuchs who were born that way, and there are eunuchs who have been made eunuchs by others; and there are those who choose to live like eunuchs for the sake of the kingdom of heaven. The one who can accept this should accept it.” (NIV)
Jesus acknowledges that some choose singleness for the sake of the kingdom of heaven. He encourages those who are able to live in singleness to embrace it as a calling and a way to serve God’s purposes more fully.
4. Isaiah 54:1 – Singleness as a Time of Fruitfulness
“Sing, barren woman, you who never bore a child; burst into song, shout for joy, you who were never in labor; because more are the children of the desolate woman than of her who has a husband,” (NIV)
This verse, while metaphorical in nature, speaks to the spiritual fruitfulness of singleness. The barren woman symbolizes someone who might be in a position of waiting or loneliness, yet she is encouraged to sing because her potential for spiritual fruitfulness is greater than she realizes.
5. Psalm 37:4 – Delight Yourself in the Lord
“Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.” (NIV)
Singleness is a time for believers to focus on delighting in the Lord. When we center our hearts on God and His will, He promises to fulfill our deepest desires in His perfect timing, whether or not they include marriage.
6. Philippians 4:6-7 – Peace in Singleness
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (NIV)
Singleness can often stir up feelings of anxiety and uncertainty. Paul’s words offer comfort, encouraging us to bring our concerns before God in prayer and trust that He will guard our hearts with His peace.
7. Romans 8:28 – God’s Purpose in Singleness
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” (NIV)
God has a purpose for every season of life, including singleness. Even if the reason for being single is unclear, we can trust that God is using it for our good and His glory.
8. 1 Corinthians 7:35 – Singleness Allows for Uncomplicated Service
“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.” (NIV)
Paul emphasizes that singleness offers the opportunity to serve God with undistracted devotion. Without the obligations of marriage, single people can more freely give their time and energy to God’s work.
9. Jeremiah 29:11 – God’s Plans for You
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.” (NIV)
This verse is a reminder that God has a plan for every person, whether married or single. He has good plans for our lives, and His will for us is always for our benefit.
10. 2 Corinthians 6:14 – Avoid Unequal Yokes
“Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?” (NIV)
For those who are single and considering future relationships, this verse emphasizes the importance of being equally yoked with a believer in Christ. Singleness allows the believer to focus on cultivating a relationship with God before entering into a partnership with another.
11. Proverbs 3:5-6 – Trusting God’s Timing
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” (NIV)
Singleness can often feel uncertain, but trusting in God’s plan and timing is key. He will guide your steps, and His plans for you are always good, whether they involve marriage or not.
12. 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5 – Living a Pure Life
“It is God’s will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality; that each of you should learn to control your own body in a way that is holy and honorable, not in passionate lust like the pagans, who do not know God.” (NIV)
Paul instructs believers to live pure lives, particularly in the area of sexual morality. Singleness provides the opportunity to focus on living a life of purity and holiness, honoring God in all aspects.
13. 1 Corinthians 7:8 – The Gift of Singleness
“Now to the unmarried and the widows I say: It is good for them to stay unmarried, as I do.” (NIV)
Here, Paul expresses his preference for singleness, highlighting that it is a good and honorable choice. For some, this is a calling to be embraced, just as marriage is for others.
14. Romans 12:1-2 – Living as a Living Sacrifice
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” (NIV)
Singleness is an opportunity to offer oneself fully to God in worship and service. In this season, we are called to live out God’s will for our lives, seeking transformation and renewing our minds.
15. Proverbs 18:22 – The Blessing of Marriage
“He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the Lord.” (NIV)
While this verse speaks to the blessing of marriage, it also reminds those who are single that marriage is a gift from God, and His favor is upon it. For those who are single, it is important to trust in God’s timing for when He may bring this blessing.
16. Matthew 6:33 – Seeking God’s Kingdom First
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” (NIV)
Singleness provides the perfect opportunity to prioritize God’s kingdom and His righteousness above all else. As we focus on Him, we trust that God will provide all that we need.
17. Psalm 73:25-26 – Finding Satisfaction in God Alone
“Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” (NIV)
For those who are single, this verse offers comfort, reminding us that God is our ultimate satisfaction. He is the one who fulfills our desires and is our strength, regardless of our relationship status.
18. Galatians 5:22-23 – The Fruit of the Spirit
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.” (NIV)
Singleness allows believers the space to grow in the fruit of the Spirit. As we cultivate these qualities, we become more Christlike and ready to serve others, whether in a relationship or as single individuals.
19. 1 Peter 5:6-7 – Humbling Ourselves Before God
“Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” (NIV)
In times of loneliness or waiting, we are encouraged to humble ourselves before God, casting our anxieties on Him. He cares for us deeply and will lift us up in His perfect timing.
20. Proverbs 19:14 – The Value of Wisdom and a Godly Wife
“Houses and wealth are inherited from parents, but a prudent wife is from the Lord.” (NIV)
While this verse highlights the value of marriage, it also reminds singles to seek God’s wisdom in all things. Whether single or married, wisdom comes from the Lord and is invaluable.
21. Isaiah 56:4-5 – The Promise of Blessing for the Eunuch
“For this is what the Lord says: ‘To the eunuchs who keep my Sabbaths, who choose what pleases me and hold fast to my covenant— to them I will give within my temple and its walls a memorial and a name better than sons and daughters; I will give them an everlasting name that will endure forever.’” (NIV)
This promise of blessing for those who embrace their singleness for the sake of God’s kingdom serves as a powerful reminder that God sees and rewards faithfulness, even in singleness.
22. 1 John 3:1 – God’s Love for Us as His Children
“See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!” (NIV)
For singles, this verse serves as a reminder of our identity in Christ. God loves us deeply, and our worth is not determined by our relationship status, but by our position as His beloved children.
23. Matthew 19:29 – Rewards for Those Who Choose Singleness
“And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or fields for my sake will receive a hundred times as much and will inherit eternal life.” (NIV)
Jesus promises rewards for those who choose to follow Him, even if it means sacrificing relationships or status. Singleness can be a form of such sacrifice, and God will reward those who remain faithful.
24. Titus 2:3-5 – Older Women Teaching Younger Women
“Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine, but to teach what is good. Then they can urge the younger women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God.” (NIV)
While this passage speaks to marriage, it also emphasizes the role of older women in teaching and mentoring the younger. Singleness offers women the opportunity to pour into others, helping them grow in Christ.
25. Matthew 7:7-8 – Asking God for What We Need
“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.” (NIV)
If you desire marriage, singleness is not a time to be passive. Ask God for the desires of your heart, trusting that He will answer according to His perfect will.
26. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 – The Value of Companionship
“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.” (NIV)
While singleness has many advantages, this verse acknowledges the value of companionship and support in relationships. Even if you are single, God may provide you with friends and mentors who walk alongside you in life.
27. Hebrews 12:1-2 – Running the Race with Endurance
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.” (NIV)
Singleness is a time to focus on running the race of faith with endurance. Keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus enables us to navigate the challenges of singleness with hope and perseverance.
28. Romans 5:3-5 – Suffering Produces Perseverance
“Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” (NIV)
Singleness can sometimes feel challenging or lonely, but God uses these struggles to produce perseverance and strengthen our character. Through this process, we develop greater hope in His promises.
29. Romans 15:13 – Hope in God
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” (NIV)
Even in singleness, believers are filled with hope, joy, and peace through the power of the Holy Spirit. As we trust in God, we can overflow with hope for the future.
30. Ephesians 5:15-16 – Making the Most of Every Opportunity
“Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.” (NIV)
Singleness provides the opportunity to make the most of every moment, living wisely and serving God with the time we have.
31. Galatians 6:9 – Do Not Grow Weary in Doing Good
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” (NIV)
In seasons of singleness, it can be easy to become weary. But this verse encourages us to continue doing good, knowing that God will reward our faithfulness in due time.
32. Luke 18:29-30 – Rewards for Following Jesus
“Truly I tell you, no one who has left home or wife or brothers or parents or children for the sake of the kingdom of God will fail to receive many times as much in this age, and in the age to come eternal life.” (NIV)
Jesus acknowledges the sacrifices made for the kingdom of God, including choosing singleness for His sake. He promises great rewards for those who follow Him wholeheartedly.
33. Philippians 3:13-14 – Pressing Toward the Goal
“Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” (NIV)
Singleness is an opportunity to press toward the goal of becoming more like Christ. No matter our relationship status, the goal is always to grow in faith and love for God.
34. John 14:2-3 – Jesus’ Promise of Eternal Home
“My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.” (NIV)
Singleness is a temporary season, but our eternal home with Christ is secure. This promise brings hope and joy, knowing that Jesus has prepared a place for us.
35. Revelation 21:4 – No More Tears or Pain
“He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” (NIV)
In the fullness of God’s kingdom, there will be no more pain, loneliness, or heartbreak. This eternal perspective helps singles endure the challenges of life on earth, looking forward to the joy and peace to come.
Conclusion
Singleness, while often misunderstood or undervalued in modern society, is richly celebrated in the Bible as a time of growth, devotion, and opportunity. Whether you’re single by choice or circumstance, God offers profound wisdom and encouragement in His Word. Each of these 35 Bible verses provides a reminder of His faithfulness, love, and promise to those who walk through life unmarried.
While singleness may feel like a time of waiting, it is, in reality, a time of cultivating a deeper relationship with God, growing in character, and serving others. Singleness is not a condition to be fixed or a season to dread, but a vital part of our journey in Christ.
As you meditate on these scriptures, be encouraged that your worth is not defined by your relationship status, but by your identity as a beloved child of God. Singleness can be a time of great joy, fulfillment, and purpose, and God has a beautiful plan for your life—whether single or married.
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