Life is full of questions, but few feel as personal or important as this one: “How do I know if God wants me to remain single or get married?” If you’re reading this, you’re likely someone who is committed to living out your faith and honoring God in all areas of your life, including relationships. Let’s explore this question together in a way that’s rooted in Scripture and practical wisdom, all while keeping our eyes on God’s unique plan for you.

Understanding God’s Will for Your Life

Before diving into the specifics of singleness and marriage, let’s clarify what we mean by “God’s will.” The Bible talks about God’s will in a few different ways:

1. God’s Sovereign Will: This refers to His overarching plan for the world, which is unchangeable and perfect (Ephesians 1:11).
2. God’s Moral Will: This is what God commands in Scripture—how we should live as followers of Christ (1 Thessalonians 4:3).
3. God’s Personal Will: This is where many of our questions lie. Does God have a specific plan for whether you marry or remain single?

The answer? Yes, but it may not always be as clear as we’d like. God’s personal will often unfolds gradually, requiring us to trust Him one step at a time.

Biblical Principles on Singleness and Marriage

Both singleness and marriage are gifts from God (1 Corinthians 7:7). Neither is inherently better or more spiritual than the other; they simply serve different purposes in God’s kingdom. Let’s take a closer look at what Scripture says about each.

Singleness: A Unique Opportunity

Paul speaks highly of singleness in 1 Corinthians 7. He explains that being single allows you to focus on serving the Lord without the added responsibilities of a spouse or family. Singleness can be a season (or a lifetime) of undivided devotion to God. Here are a few things to consider:

• Purpose in Singleness: Singleness is not a waiting room for marriage. It’s a season—however long—to grow in your relationship with God, pursue your passions, and serve others.
• Freedom in Singleness: You have unique opportunities to travel, serve in missions, or build your career without the constraints that come with marriage.
• Challenges in Singleness: Loneliness is real, and so is the longing for companionship. These feelings don’t mean you’re “doing singleness wrong”—they’re part of the human experience.

Marriage: A Beautiful Covenant

Marriage is a picture of Christ’s relationship with the Church (Ephesians 5:25-32). It’s a covenant that reflects God’s love and faithfulness. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Purpose in Marriage: Marriage isn’t just about personal happiness; it’s about growing in holiness and building a Christ-centered partnership.
• Challenges in Marriage: Marriage comes with its own set of difficulties, from communication struggles to the daily work of selflessness.
• Blessings in Marriage: Marriage can be a source of deep joy, companionship, and a platform for serving God together.

How to Discern God’s Plan for You

So how do you know which path God has for you? Here are some steps to help you discern:

1. Seek God in Prayer

Prayer isn’t just about asking God for answers; it’s about building a relationship with Him. Ask God to align your desires with His will. Be honest about your hopes and fears, and trust that He hears you (1 John 5:14).

2. Study Scripture

The Bible may not tell you directly whether to get married, but it’s filled with principles that can guide your decision-making. For example, Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us to trust in the Lord and lean not on our own understanding.

3. Examine Your Desires

God often places desires in our hearts for a reason. Do you feel called to the mission field or a demanding career that would be easier to pursue as a single person? Do you long for a partner to share life and ministry with? These desires can offer clues to God’s plan.

4. Seek Wise Counsel

Talk to trusted Christian mentors, friends, or pastors. They can offer perspective and wisdom that you might not see on your own. Just remember that their advice should always align with Scripture.

5. Take Practical Steps

If you feel led toward marriage, don’t be afraid to take practical steps to meet like-minded believers. One great resource is the SALT dating app, which is specifically designed for Christian singles. It’s a space where you can connect with people who share your faith and values.

Trusting God in the Process

Whether you’re single, dating, or somewhere in between, the most important thing is to trust God’s timing. Remember, God’s plans for you are good (Jeremiah 29:11). He knows your heart, your desires, and your future.

When I was in my mid-twenties, I wrestled with this question myself. I watched friends get married while I remained single, wondering if God had forgotten about me. But in hindsight, those years were some of the most formative of my life. They deepened my faith, shaped my character, and prepared me for the future God had in store.

Final Thoughts

The question of whether to remain single or get married isn’t one you need to answer today. God’s guidance often comes step by step, like a lamp lighting your path (Psalm 119:105). Embrace the season you’re in, seek God’s will, and take practical steps toward whatever He’s calling you to.

Whether He’s calling you to singleness or marriage, your life has purpose and value. Trust Him with your journey, and know that you’re not walking it alone. If you’re open to exploring relationships, consider a resource like SALT to connect with other believers who share your faith. But most importantly, keep your eyes on Christ, the author and perfecter of your faith (Hebrews 12:2).