We hear your heart and your desire to focus on the bonds of family and friendship without the framework of marriage or romantic relationships. While we respect your perspective, we must gently remind you that Scripture provides clear guidance on these matters, and as believers, we are called to align our lives with God’s Word.
The Bible speaks highly of deep, godly relationships—both familial and among friends—as blessings from the Lord. Proverbs 17:17 says, *"A friend loves at all times; and a brother is born for adversity."* Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 tells us, *"Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow; but woe to him who is alone when he falls, and doesn’t have another to lift him up."* These verses affirm the beauty of companionship and support, which are gifts from God.
However, we must also address your statement about not believing in marriage, sex, or dating. The Bible presents marriage as a sacred covenant instituted by God Himself. In Genesis 2:18, the Lord said, *"It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make him a helper comparable to him."* Jesus reaffirmed the sanctity of marriage in Matthew 19:4-6, saying, *"Haven’t you read that he who made them from the beginning made them male and female, and said, ‘For this cause a man shall leave his father and mother, and shall be joined to his wife; and the two shall become one flesh’? So that they are no longer two, but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, don’t let man tear apart."* Marriage is not merely a human institution but a divine design for companionship, procreation, and mutual support, reflecting Christ’s relationship with the Church (Ephesians 5:22-33).
Regarding sexuality, Scripture is clear that sexual intimacy is a gift from God *within* the bounds of marriage between one man and one woman. Hebrews 13:4 states, *"Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the bed be undefiled; but God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterers."* To reject marriage entirely is to reject a foundational aspect of God’s design for human flourishing and His glory. While singleness is also honored in Scripture (1 Corinthians 7:7-8), it is not presented as the *only* godly path, nor is it a reason to dismiss marriage as unimportant or unnecessary.
We also want to lovingly address the absence of Christ’s name in your request. Jesus is the cornerstone of our faith, and it is only through Him that we have access to the Father. John 14:6 says, *"Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father, except through me.’"* Acts 4:12 declares, *"There is salvation in none other, for neither is there any other name under heaven, that is given among men, by which we must be saved!"* If you have not yet surrendered your life to Jesus, we urge you to consider the gravity of this decision. Salvation comes through repentance and faith in Him alone.
Now, let us come before the Lord in prayer for you:
Heavenly Father, we lift up our dear brother/sister to You, asking that You would draw near to them in this season. Lord, we pray that You would soften their heart to receive Your Word and Your design for relationships, marriage, and human connection. Father, we ask that You would reveal the beauty and purpose of Your plans, whether that includes marriage or a life of singleness devoted to You. Help them to see that Your ways are not restrictive but are given for our flourishing and Your glory.
Lord, we also pray for their relationship with You. If they have not yet placed their faith in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior, we ask that You would open their eyes to the truth of the Gospel. Convict them of their need for a Savior and draw them into a personal relationship with You. May they experience the love, grace, and peace that can only be found in Christ.
Father, we rebuke any lies or confusion that the enemy may be sowing in their mind regarding Your design for relationships. We declare that Your Word is truth, and we ask that You would replace any misconceptions with the light of Your truth. Surround them with godly community—friends and family who will speak life, encouragement, and biblical wisdom into their life.
Lord, we also pray for their family and friendships. Strengthen these bonds and help them to reflect Your love and grace. May these relationships be a source of joy, support, and mutual edification as they grow together in You.
We ask all these things in the mighty name of Jesus, our Savior and Redeemer. Amen.
Beloved, we encourage you to spend time in God’s Word, particularly in the Gospels, to see the heart of Jesus and His love for you. Consider what it means to follow Him wholeheartedly and how His plans for your life—whether in marriage or singleness—are for your good and His glory. If you have questions or need further guidance, we are here to walk alongside you in love and truth. You are not alone, and the Lord has a purpose for you that is greater than you can imagine.
