Single, Dating, Engaged, Married

In this book study, pastor and author Ben Stuart dives into the biblical truths surrounding relationship, from single to married, and illuminates how we as Christians are called, by God, to love one another.

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PursueGOD is a new kind of discipleship curriculum for an increasingly complicated world. We use podcasts on a variety of topics to offer no-nonsense answers to everyday questions. Then we organize these podcasts into series so you can use them to make disciples at church, home, or in the world. Here’s how it works:

  1. Pick a series from our homepage. There's plenty to choose from!
  2. Each series contains multiple lessons. Click on the numbered tabs to open each lesson.
  3. Start by listening to the podcast on your own, before you meet as a group. Take notes as needed, and listen again if it helps. Consider starting a discipleship journal to track what you're learning.
  4. Meet as a group to talk through what you learned from the podcast. Each lesson includes shownotes, talking points, and discussion questions. Click on the # tab to explore additional topics.
  5. Listen to the podcast above for more helpful tips or check out one of our many training series.

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How to Thrive in Your Singleness

Many people see singleness as a waiting room for real life — a holding pattern until marriage or the next big milestone. But according to Scripture, singleness is not a curse to escape; it’s a calling to embrace.

In 1 Corinthians 7, Paul calls both marriage and singleness “gifts.” Each season comes with its own opportunities and challenges, but both are meant to lead us closer to God and advance His kingdom. When we learn to see singleness through God’s eyes, we discover purpose, freedom, and joy right where we are.

Singleness Is a Gift with Purpose

Paul reminds believers that singleness is “for your own benefit” (1 Corinthians 7:35). God gives it to some for a time and to others for a lifetime. Either way, it’s not meant to punish you but to position you for deeper devotion. James 1:17 reminds us, “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father.” Singleness is one of those gifts — a season designed to know God more intimately and serve Him without distraction.

When we start seeing our current season as a divine gift instead of a delay, gratitude grows and comparison fades.

The Bigger Story

It’s easy to let romance, marriage, or career become the main story of life. But Colossians 3:2 tells us, “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” God’s bigger story isn’t about our relationship status — it’s about His kingdom and redemption through Christ.

Singleness offers a clear window into that eternal perspective. It gives us space to remember that we were made not just for romance but for relationship with God and His mission. When we live with eternity in view, singleness becomes less about what’s missing and more about what’s possible.

Freedom & Focus

Paul describes singleness as an opportunity for “undivided devotion to the Lord” (1 Corinthians 7:35). Without the daily responsibilities of marriage or family, singles have a unique freedom to serve, grow, and invest in others. Ephesians 5:15–16 calls us to “make the most of every opportunity.”

That means using this season to deepen your faith, pursue your calling, and build the kingdom. The real danger isn’t singleness itself — it’s wasting it on distractions or self-centered living.

The Challenge

Singleness is temporary. It ends either in marriage or in eternity with Christ. So the question isn’t, “Will you waste it?” but “How will you use it?”

Whether you’re single for a season or a lifetime, God’s purpose remains the same — to live with undivided devotion to Him. As you trust Him with your future, you can thrive in your present.

Talking Points:
  • Singleness is a gift, not a punishment. God gives it for your benefit and to draw you closer to Him. 1 Corinthians 7:35, James 1:17
  • Every believer experiences singleness at some point — it’s a season with purpose, not a problem to solve.
  • God’s bigger story is about His kingdom and redemption, not our relationship status. Colossians 3:2
  • Singleness provides freedom to serve, grow spiritually, and focus on God’s mission in ways that might not be possible later. Ephesians 5:15–16
  • The ultimate goal of every season — single or married — is “undivided devotion to the Lord.” 1 Corinthians 7:35

Discussion:
  1. Read the talking points above as a group, including scripture references. What are your initial thoughts about these points or about the podcast lesson (see audio above)?
  2. Why do you think many people struggle to see singleness as a gift from God?
  3. What are some ways you can use this season of singleness to grow closer to God and serve others?
  4. How have you experienced pressure from culture, friends, or family to view singleness negatively?
  5. What might change in your heart or habits if you saw your time as a “kingdom resource”?
  6. How can gratitude reshape your outlook on this current season?
  7. If you had one sentence to describe how you want to use your singleness for God’s glory, what would it be?

Coming soon!

Coming soon!

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Coming soon!

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