Amy, 26, Teacher

Throughout my life, I’ve had people close to me comment on my weight, what I eat, and how I dress. I started believing my weight and the way I look were the reason why nobody wanted to date me. At 26 years old, I still haven’t dated anyone. That’s considered “weird” for society’s standards today. I started believing the lies that were being fed to me.

The thing is, not everyone understands the beauty of singleness. I am not sure I fully understood it either, until recently. God has taken me on a journey and he has spoken to me vividly in these times of hurt, tears, and sadness. I am thankful that through it all, He is my God and He is good!

My perspective on life and living out my faith changed when I stopped listening to the hurtful words of those around me and started listening to God. He has taught me to persevere and to obey. He has also revealed His plan for my life.

“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 hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)

The Lord’s plans are much greater than my own.

This year, the Lord spoke to me in a powerful way. As I was having some quiet time in my room, He laid on my heart so heavily and so clearly that He’s saving me from the heartbreak of relationship. This may not make sense to some. The thing is, God isn’t telling me that I must embrace singleness for the rest of my life. He also isn’t telling me that I’m never going to face trials in relationships again.

Instead, He’s telling me that He’s protecting my heart from the hurt that I’ve felt from this world and some people that were closest to me. I strongly believe that God has someone for me, but I must wait on His perfect timing.

I am thankful that in the waiting, the Lord still speaks and reigns over my life. No one can ever take that from me. I’ve learned to be content with the circumstances God has placed in my path. I know that the current place I am in and the experiences I am having are shaping me for what’s to come.

And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. – Romans 8:28 (NLT)

During this waiting season, God has given me an abundance of opportunities to love and to serve. I am typically on the move, and some that know me may say I’m too busy. I’ve learned to take time for myself but to spend more time serving God and others. Singleness has allowed me to serve persistently.

I have been able to find my wellness in Christ with serving and loving others. There is a peace and a freedom in knowing that God has my future and His plans are better than I could ever imagine. I may be busy, but everyday, God renews my strength.

But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk about not faint. – Isaiah 40:31 (NLT)

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