Encouragement for Today

February 21, 2024 Why Am I Still Single? MEGHAN MELLINGER Lee en español

“Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life.” Psalm 143:8b (NIV)

My two favorite (though unrelated) questions are: “How old are these leftovers I’m about to eat for lunch?” and “Why?”

I’m a single gal in my late 30s, and my life hasn’t turned out how I thought it would. My résumé is full of plot twists, my hair is turning white faster than I’d like, and I never did marry Prince William (or Harry).

Of course, a certain February holiday has me thinking about my relationship status more than usual. I can’t help but wonder:

Why is my reality not matching my desires?
Should I be doing more, praying harder, or caring about it all less?
Is God still moving if this area of my life isn’t?

Sometimes the answer to our “why am I still single” question is obvious: God is protecting us, preparing us, or has a purpose for us elsewhere. But sometimes we don’t get an answer to our “why.” So we’re left with a choice: continue the search for eligible royalty or ask some different questions.

God, what do You want me to do now?

Instead of asking why you’re here, ask God what He wants you to do here. Create a prayer from our key verse, Psalm 143:8b: “Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life.” You have influence right where you are, ring on your finger or not. How can you use your time, talents and energy today to serve the people you’re with and the places you’re in?

How can I grow my relationship with God in this?

Do you think of God as a cold, unapproachable being who is withholding something incredible from you? Or is He a friend who loves you unconditionally and wants a relationship with you, even if you don’t understand everything that happens in your life? Today is as good a day as any to dig, cry and wrestle your way to a richer and deeper understanding of God’s character and heart.

As I reflect on my life until now, in what ways can I trace God’s faithfulness?

I thought the plans I had for myself 15 years ago were great, but hindsight shows God’s plans were infinitely better. Even if God feels quiet today, I can reflect back and see how He’s used heartbreaks, jobs, relationships, health problems, communities, and cities I’ve been in for some type of good. Today might be hard, but let's allow God’s faithfulness from yesterday to give us hope for tomorrow.

Jesus, instead of only wondering why, help us to ask for more of who You are and how we can partner with Your plans. Write Psalm 143:8 on our hearts as a reminder of Your loving faithfulness, and guide our lives according to Your plans, not ours: “Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life.” In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

OUR FAVORITE THINGS

Do you ever find yourself short on words when your friend is navigating a difficult season? You want to be there for her, be a good listener, encourage her and pray for her, but how can you know with confidence what she actually needs right now? Lysa TerKeurst deeply understands these feelings and is circling up with two of her real-life best friends to help us all grow in our relationships. Watch their conversation, “Say These Things That Are Helpful, Not Hurtful,” here!

ENGAGE

For more from Meghan Mellinger, connect with her on Instagram @megswritesthings.

FOR DEEPER STUDY

Psalm 34:18, “The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit” (NIV).

Is your heart heavy with your tears and fears? God promises to be close to the brokenhearted.

Think your current situation is beyond repair? God is in the business of redeeming all things for good (Romans 8:28).

Feeling overlooked and forgotten? Our God is a God who sees you, understands you and chooses you (Genesis 16:13).

What promises of God do you need to be reminded of today? Share them in the comments!

© 2024 by Meghan Mellinger. All rights reserved.