Why Am I Single?نموونە

Pursuing Devotion

The Greek word for devotion is perhaps better captured in the word attentive. Devotion expresses itself in attentiveness to God’s Word and attending to his work. Study and service. It involves the pursuit of intimacy with the Lord and engaging in the activities that please him.

If you want to be devoted to the Lord, be assured he will constantly call you toward those who are spiritually, emotionally, and physically in need (see James 1:27). Get involved in your local church and participate in their local and global efforts to relieve suffering in the name of Jesus. I promise there is deep satisfaction when you realize the work of your hands can have a substantial impact in the lives of people in your city and around the world.

One of the greatest examples of how you can leverage this season of singleness is by looking at the life of the apostle Paul. The Christian life brings with it deep relationships, and one of those relationships for Paul was with his protégé Timothy. Paul’s words to this young man in 2 Timothy 4:9–22 illustrate five steps on how to pursue devotion with God and finish well.

First, never give up. Even from his prison cell, Paul was coordinating those in ministry. He made the decision that nothing in life would keep him from fulfilling the purposes of his King. Like Paul, you will experience discouragements and distractions. You can choose to be among that select group of people who make the greatest impact in the world simply by resolving that no matter what comes, you will never quit.

Second, invest in the next generation. As Paul neared the end of his life, he surrounded himself with young men whom he had mentored. He also commanded Timothy to entrust the truths of God in reliable men who would be able to teach others (see verse 2). In 3 John 4, the apostle declared, “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.” If you want joy like that, invest in the next generation.

Third, keep learning. Even while in prison, Paul wanted to keep reading (see verse 13). As a single person, you have discretionary time to spend in God’s Word. So take a moment and look over your weekly schedule and ask God to show you where that time may be. If you want to be productive in the good times and persevere in the bad, keep learning God’s Word.

Fourth, be willing to forgive. When a man named Alexander wounded Paul, he told Timothy, “The Lord will repay him for what he has done” (verse 14). He did not urge Timothy to try to get even. You may have been deeply wounded, but forgiveness will cultivate in your soul a sweetness that will serve you well in every relationship.

Fifth, rest in the care of God. Paul knew the Lord would rescue him from every evil deep and bring him in his kingdom (see verse 18). Each day as you walk through your season of singleness, continue to trust your heart, mind, relationships, plans, and circumstances to the Lord. Commit your way to him, then rest in the arms of a strong and loving Father.

I can promise that being devoted to the Lord in this way is the most fruitful and peaceful way to live out this season of your life—and will lead you to the next place God wants you to go.

Respond

How does investing in reading God’s Word fit into your schedule? What gets in the way of you doing this?

Is there any unforgiveness in your life that stands between you and full devotion to the Lord? Who do you need to forgive? Who needs to forgive you?

What risks are you willing to take to pursue devotion to the Lord? How does trust in God’s love and power help you be courageous to face these risks?