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Key Bible Verse: You must accept whatever situation the Lord has put you in (1 Corinthians 7:17). Bonus Reading: Ecclesiastes 3:1–8

Before I was married, I visited my alma mater and saw professors, ex-classmates, old girlfriends. Their response to my still-matelessness was amusing. "Haven't you found the right one yet?" they'd inquire. "Gee, Max, I'm sorry" (as though I'd failed at life).

Some were more tactful. "How's your social life?" (What they really wanted was a scouting report.)

"Fine," I'd say (leaving them wondering).

Several put their arms around my shoulders or took my hand and confided, "God has one waiting for you, Max. Don't be afraid."

I know people mean well. But honestly—is meaning found only at the marriage altar? Is there no room at the inn for those who sleep alone? Are they that socially underdeveloped?

Jesus suggested that singleness is more than acceptable. In fact, He called it a gift; not for everybody but for a few. A gift that encourages "undivided devotion to the Lord" (1 Corinthians 7:35, NIV). Being mateless isn't nearly as bad as it's made out to be. It could be part of a plan.

—Max Lucado in Shaped by God

Adapted from Shaped by God (Tyndale, 1985) by permission.

Prayer for the Week

Lord, help me trust You to arrange the single or marital state that's Your best for me.

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