Single. Available. On-The-Market. Bachelor. Bachelorette.
These are some terms used for someone who is not married. But I’d like to explore another word with you when it comes to identifying those in the Lord who are not married yet - Sanctified.
The definition of Sanctified is “set apart as.”
This world has done a good job at painting a picture of the time of singleness as being a time to party, sleep around, explore, experiment, etc. However, we understand the Bible exposed light on this type of thinking: it’s sin, and sin always has consequences.
I’m amazed at those Godly examples I see around me every day that are doing their utmost to honor God in their lives and spirits by honoring HIM with their body by being ‘sanctified’ (set apart).
These are the pillars in our church that every time God’s people meet, I’m blessed to see them giving of their time to serve to thebody of Christ through hospitality ministry, nurseries, all types of children’s ministry, worship, and just being there in worship, etc.
I know just as many married couples who are making a profound impact in this world, but there is something about someone who is not yet married and has devoted their life to the Lord and to his work; they are available and ready to be used and go where He wants.
The Bible says, “But I want you to be free from concern. One who is unmarried is concerned about the things of the Lord, how he may please the Lord.” [1 Corinthians 7:32 NASB]
I love my wife, I love my children, I love the life I now have in Christ, and I would have it no other way. But I remember the times of ministry when I was a single (and my wife does as well). We could go as early as we wanted or stay as late as we wanted because, in our case, we were free of marital and/or our parental responsibility. Wherever the Holy Spirit directed us, whenever there was a need and call for ministry, there we were!
My sanctified brothers and sisters are a blessing to me; they are simply amazing!
They are amazing because:
They are available to do the Lord’s work.
I see them serving always; when there is a call to move, they can move in a moment's notice.
They are examples to a lost world.
"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” [Matthew 5:16 NKJV]
What an example they are to a World that says a time of being single is a time to ‘live free’ and do what your heart desires. To stand up and live a life of purity shouts God’s wonder working power in this world. For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you should abstain from sexual immorality; [1 Thessalonians 4:3 NKJV]. Praise God this is their testimony.
They are blessed as they serve.
So He said to them, "Assuredly, I say to you, there is no one who has left house or parents or brothers or wife or children, for the sake of the kingdom of God, "who shall not receive many times more in this present time, and in the age to come eternal life." [Luke 18:29-30 NKJV]
God will give them the desires of their heart.
Delight yourself also in the LORD, And He shall give you the desires of your heart. [Psalms 37:4 NKJV]
My Sanctified Brothers and Sisters, we applaud you!
I thank God for you.
Keep up the awesome work!
-Matthew Penalber