The following post is written by Candice Watters. You can actually listen to her and her husband, Steve today and tomorrow as Nancy Leigh DeMoss interviews them on Revive Our Hearts . . . They’re talking about starting your family rather than waiting.
A reader asked me for a guide to praying for her future husband. She wanted practical help that would pick up where "Pray Boldly" left off. It's proved a little harder to write than I first thought it would. Maybe it's because I didn't start praying specific prayers for a husband until after I met Steve. Or maybe it's because I realize that though most people eventually do marry, not everyone who wants to marry will. Still, we're called to pray—about everything. So what should prayer for a husband look like?
Being, not feeling, thankfulMy Mom used to encourage me with Matthew 6:33 when I'd call (at least once a week) to complain about still being single. She always took me back to that verse: "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." She even encouraged me to give thanks for the difficult circumstances.
"Give thanks for not having anyone ask me out?" I'd say, with not just a little anger and emotion. "Yes," she'd say gently, but firmly. "Thank God for this opportunity to praise Him, to grow in your faith, to grow in your dependence on Him. Give thanks for the things you most want Him to change."
The Bible says,
"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:6-7).We're supposed to ask for a husband humbly (that's what supplication means) and with thanksgiving. I know how hard it can be to give thanks in the midst of doubt, fear, broken relationships, disappointment and more. How can you feel thankful when you're hurt, angry and frustrated?
Thankfully, we don't have to feel it. The verse just says give thanks. When I most need that verse—when I'm anxious—saying "thank you" always starts as an act of the will. And often I have to pray for the grace to do that! But obedience has the benefit of producing good fruit.
"Seek first, His kingdom," she says. And I'd cry, and we'd pray, and the more I did that, the more I submitted my unmet longings to Him. My pain led me to pray and giving thanks protected me from bitterness. Spending time talking with God created the opportunity for Him to soften my heart, shaping my desires to conform to His. My heart needed to soften, primarily because my pride was keeping me from being like Him.
I don't know what changes God wants to make in you. We're all different. But there is great work to be done. None of us are perfect. We all stumble in many ways (James 3:2) and we all have areas where we need to be more like Him. If you daily submit to His process, even in the pain, He will change you.
Thy will be done
What if God answers your prayers differently than you want Him to? He is able to transform the desires of your heart to align with His, and to satisfy you, completely. We may never be able to understand this with our finite minds, but the Holy Spirit makes it possible to grasp it in our spirits, so that we may pray with Jesus, "Thy will be done."
I'm amazed that God doesn't ask us to begin there, or require us to deny that we have real requests and desires. Not only does Philippians 4:6 instruct us to "let [our] requests be made known to God," Jesus modeled that in his prayer in the garden. Paul E. Miller talks about this in his book, A Praying Life:
"Read the Gospels and you'll discover a passionate, feeling man. Thank God we have a Savior who is in touch with the real world, who prays that he will not drink the cup of his Father's wrath, who cries out on a rough wooden cross, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me" (Matthew 27:46). Jesus neither suppresses his feelings nor lets them master him. He is real" (p. 123).It was only after He prayed, "if there is any way, let this cup pass," that he prayed, "not my will, but yours be done."
The whole point of prayer is to grow in relationship with God. The more we talk and listen, the more He shapes the conversation. As we grow closer to Him, our desires shift from what we want—what we think we most need—to what He does. His desires become our desires.
As David Platt writes in his book, Radical,
"[God's] gift of grace involves the gift of a new heart. New desires. New longings. For the first time, we want God. We see our need for him, and we love him. We seek after him, and we find him, and we discover that he is indeed the great reward for our salvation.... [W]e are saved to know God. So we yearn for him" (p. 39).Faith despite numbers
Some 70 to 80 percent of high school seniors say marriage is extremely important. And 80 to 90 percent of Americans eventually marry. But what if the 20 percent who don't value marriage doesn't comprise the 20 percent who don't marry? What if some of the people who don't marry really wanted to? How do we reconcile what's statistically probable with what's supernaturally possible?
I talked about this before in "Plenty of Men to Go Around." Peter wasn't supposed to be able to walk on water. And when he made that fact his focus, along with the storm and treacherous waves around him, he did what you'd expect. He sank. But when he fixed his eyes on Christ, he did the unexpected.
For many women, getting married would seem just as miraculous. Praise God that He hasn't changed—He's still the same wonder-working God who walked with Peter on the water. He still does the unexpected. But we have to do our part. We have to keep our eyes on Him. In the process, He may change our attitudes, our expectations, our habits, our health—whatever needs changing. He can do anything—He's God. You can trust Him and count on Him. He is faithful.
Faithful, but not predictable. Things may not turn out how you want. In C.S. Lewis' The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe, Susan asked Mr. Beaver about Aslan saying, "Is he—quite safe?" Mr. Beaver replied, "Safe? Who said anything about safe? Course he isn't safe. But he's good. He's the King, I tell you." You can know that wherever your journey with Him leads, it will be good.
Believe God is able. Trust Him. But know that believing and trusting aren't the same as setting yourself up for bitter disappointment if He doesn't answer you the way you hope He will. God is calling us to faith, like Shadrach, Mesach and Abednego, who said,
"O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to save us from it, and he will rescue us from your hand, O king. But even if he does not, we want you to know, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up" (Daniel 3:16-18).The God we serve is able to bring you a husband. But even if he does not, will you be faithful?
We should always pray
When I first started writing this article, I was thinking in terms of a list of traits to ask for and specific verses to pray. But the more I wrote and prayed, the more I realized that God's leading in our prayer life is individualized. Each of us is unique and His work in us differs from person to person. That's not to say you can't pray for a godly husband who meets the requirements of the "husband verses."1 I think you should.
But I also think you should ask God to show you how to pray given your story and this particular moment in history. This morning, I was praying about this article and wondering how God might lead me to pray if I were still single. I realized that before I could pray for a husband, I'd need to pray that this generation of men would be transformed by God's power to rise up as men capable of the commitments of marriage.
Given all the bad news about men: the tough economy, the disparities in education between men and women, the lack of role models and other fallout of the divorce epidemic, it occurred to me that even before we arrive at praying for men as suitors, we need to pray for men as our brothers in Christ. They are, many of them, limping spiritually. I believe we should be asking God to raise up a generation of godly men who are not only willing to take on the challenge and calling of being godly husbands and fathers, but able to.
Whatever season of life you're in, you need to pray because prayer is about relationship with God. Whether single and praying about your desire for a husband; or later, if you're married, praying about your desire for a baby; or praying for your (or your husband's) need for a job; or if you never do marry, praying about serving faithfully while celibate, the need to pray never ends. Jesus told his disciples they should "always pray and not give up." It's never too soon, or too late, to start.
* * *
NOTES
1. The "husband verses" are the passages that lay out the job description husbands are called to. They include Ephesians 5:22-28, Colossians 3:18-19 and 1 Peter 3:1-7. They're the standard for what makes a good mate. As you read them, you'll realize men aren't the only one who needs prayer. Don't just pray for your future husband, pray for yourself—the future wife. A big part of marriage prep for women is praying through the "wife verses," especially Proverbs 31 and Titus 2, with your future calling in mind.
Copyright 2010, Candice Watters. All rights reserved. International copyright secured. This article was published on Boundless.org on July 20, 2010. Used with permission.
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Comments
After we met and went through my "husband" prayer journal it was neat to see God show off through the details!
Thanks for this article!
on Tuesday, November 9, 2010 at 7:04 am
on Tuesday, November 9, 2010 at 9:15 am
on Tuesday, November 9, 2010 at 9:34 am
Thanks for letting me know, Rachel. I'll have our trusty web team look into it . . .
on Tuesday, November 9, 2010 at 9:40 am
I'm 36, staring at yet another birthday around the corner. The only thing I ever wanted and dreamed of was marriage and family. In this world and in the church people talk about chasing your dreams and doing what you always dreamed of. And "what is the 'vision' God has given you for your life?". All this stuff makes it really hard when the only thing has been something that you must wait on the Lord for. Yes, there are some people who don't wait. They go after every man or woman that they have the slightest interest in. And although I'm not supposed to hide in a corner somewhere "waiting on God" I'm also not going to be chasing every single guy in my path. Focusing on that does not help me keep my focus on the Lord. It just causes more discontentment.
So, I'm waiting. And waiting. And yes, if it ever happens, it will be a blessed miracle of the Lord!
May prayer has always been that yes, Lord this is what I want but You know what is best for me and I'm choosing to trust You. I do pray for the future husband that He might possibly bless me with. I pray that he will be a man of integrity, a man who seeks the Lord and wants to obey Him in the big and small things. Not praying for Mr. Perfect but for the man who when he sins, is quickly convicted and goes to God! I have to be careful because too much focusing on praying for "my future husband" can lead me to thinking about "him" too much and even though I'm praying to the Lord it can still distract me and lead yet again to discouragement and frustration that I'm not married to Mr. Right and Wonderful!
But in the friendships with men that God has blessed me with in the last several years, He has taught me so much about men and about myself. What I pray for is different, my expectations are different, I know the Lord has got to be my security and the one to whom I lean and not someone who is imperfect just like me.
If you are single, read the Love & Respect book by Dr. Emerson. Yes, it seems like it is for married people mostly, but there is SO much we can learn as singles in how to relate to each other!
ROH, thanks for remembering the single folks in your blogs and those not blessed with children. We need those individual reminders to keep trusting the Lord at ALL times too. Thanks!
on Tuesday, November 9, 2010 at 10:05 am
on Tuesday, November 9, 2010 at 3:26 pm
on Tuesday, November 9, 2010 at 6:33 pm
marriage. It is difficult sometimes especially since
I do not talk about this desire. Like "longingforGod'sman" I will continue to wait and pray.
on Tuesday, November 9, 2010 at 6:37 pm
So, from that time on, I prayed for my future husband--wondering where he lived, and what school he went to. Often I would picture in my mind what gift he was opening up at Christmas time, or where he was vacationing, or who he was taking to the senior prom.
As the years advanced, Dad would suggest things to pray for--you know, age appropriate things that I could relate to. In the beginning he would say, "Pray that he is obdient to his parents and to God, and kind to others." Then he would suggest, "Pray that he makes good decisions about choosing friends." In the High School years he would say, "Pray that he keeps himself pure for marriage." "Pray that he will be honest and truthful." "Pray that if he goes to college, God will direct him to the right institution." And so on...
As a mom of a couple of sons, I can add more things to that list as I encourage my sons to be praying for their future wife. "Treat your bodies as a gift to give to them at the time of marriage, and pray that she does the same." I throw this question out often whenever something comes up that they mentioned...things like getting a tatoo, for instance. "Do you think that this might be something that you'd like for your wife to have an input?" It makes them think twice, which is good--it gives them perspective that not only is their body not their own; it first belongs to the Lord, and then to their future spouse.
By the way, it took a while for my husband and I to meet up; our paths crossed 4 times in 3 years before there was a connection. I remember we had dated for around 8 months before this lightbulb went off in my head and I knew this was the "boy" I had been praying for since I was 11 years old! Many of my husband's friends were coming to believe that he was going to be a bachelor, but not so!
The confirmation was unbelieveably surreal, but how thankful I was, and am, to the Lord for parents who invested time in prayer for me and my husband. After thirty years of marriage, we are humbled to share this life together.
on Wednesday, November 10, 2010 at 12:16 am
on Thursday, November 11, 2010 at 11:08 pm
I will pray along with you about what might be God's will with this man.
My aunt was widowed at the age of 42, and seven years after that she remarried her second husband. The second marriage (for 12 years) was a struggle because all she had to compare it to was with the first marriage. She and her second husband worked through a lot of financial woes, children issues on both sides, and things of that sort. They went to Godly counselling, and fortunately by God's grace and mercy those two were both looking for answers because they really did love each other. Praise God they were married for 30 plus years after that. He absolutely adored her, and she him, but that's not to say they didn't have their views on how things should be handled when they started off their marriage.
Please, please talk things through while you and this man court--or when you start courting. 2008 was not very long ago; I can see where it would be easy to fall into what looks like welcoming arms. In one sense, with feeling like you're ready to go into another relationship that is a good thing because it may shed light on how well you viewed your marriage to your husband of many years. Or, it could mean something else, too.
Just last night my husband and I were talking about a friend of ours with whom he was having a meal while they were at a church convention. This man and his second wife were at this table with my husband. My husband said that the entire meal was spent discussing this other man's first wife. (Unfortunately, this first wife had died from a real dehabilitating (sp?) disease.) I asked my husband, "Was this second wife joining in on the conversation? Or, what were her expressions?" My hubby said, "Oh, she just let him talk; she didn't seem bothered or anything like that."
I replied, "Well that's good; perhaps she, too, at times needed to talk about her first husband and he was patient with her then."
Be looking for signs and expressions from him while discussing your deceased mates. The last thing you don't want is to be "stifled" when expressing something that was your precious history. He has a precious history, as well. Even if the both of you did, or did not, get along super well with your former spouses, you still have "precious history," and that is BOTH YOUR SETS OF CHILDREN AND GRANDCHILDREN!
TAKE CUES FROM YOUR CHILDREN --trust me when I say this. Although I do not have personal experience in my life with this subject, I sure do as a pastor's wife. Oh my goodness!! I could tell you stories like you wouldn't believe. Not only would you not believe them; you would NOT want to be one of these stories! If your children, especially collectively, have issues with a man you're dating, take time (and lots of it) to figure of why. What is it that they're seeing, that you're not? Any decision you make regarding another relationship SHOULD, SHOULD, SHOULD bring you joy, and joy to ADD to your family.
Above all, it should honor Christ!
I can see where this can be a really exciting time in your life. Take note, too, that there are certain seasons of the year that really bring out all the warm fuzzies. Is this the time of year for you? I pray that you will have a clear picture of where God is leading you, Marilyn. Best wishes.
on Saturday, November 13, 2010 at 3:34 pm
on Sunday, November 14, 2010 at 3:54 am
on Tuesday, November 16, 2010 at 8:22 pm
Its not easy but i beleive that God will make a way and in the end i will be able to see the bigger picture.
God Bless!!!
on Wednesday, December 22, 2010 at 6:13 am
Thank you for sharing this article. You have addressed my greatest concern at almost 28 years old and single. Sometimes it's hard to pray for something that you so desire and at the same time, having to let it go in a sense by submitting to God's will.
I feel convicted that the desire to get married has become an idol in my life, to be honest. At the same time, it's so comforting whenever I am reassured that God doesn't overlook this desire - He understands how I feel. I have heard few Christian articles that acknowledge the pain of singleness and that it can be a very real concern for some.
If anyone reads this, and God puts it on your heart, please pray for me as I often feel bitter. Even when I pray and confess this, that feeling pops up again. If God has a plan for me that doesn't include being married, that's fine; but I want to know how he can satisfy me while living with this longing.
Please pray that God will provide what my heart needs right now - and for conviction and correction in any area where my flesh/sin or hurt - is stopping His work.
Thank you for your post and your encouragement.
Bless you,
Andrea
on Saturday, January 29, 2011 at 10:45 pm
on Tuesday, February 8, 2011 at 8:15 am
on Thursday, February 10, 2011 at 3:08 am
on Sunday, March 20, 2011 at 7:36 am
on Sunday, April 24, 2011 at 10:11 pm
I have never been married and I have never had a boyfriend. I have been praying for a boyfriend for the past 33 years and have been praying for a husband for the past 27 years!! I yearn so much to be married!! Its all I ever wanted. I at least want a boyfriend. I only dated one man for 3 months on 2001. It doesn't make sense why no one would want me
I am pretty slender welleducated active and kind..easygoing not tough or controlling or conceited. It hurts deeply and I cry constantly at home. I really want to
be one of those women who marry a much younger man
Since I look young its always been the younger ones that ask me out. However its difficult to find Christian men in my region
I am an event planner for Christian singles group do volunteer stuff for good causes and helping to athletic clubs. No one is more active. Social anxiety causes me to sound nervous but its not that bad. Someone should accept me.
I struggle with depression and extreme anger and bitterness because I am close to 50 and have never shard a birthday with a man or spent a holiday with a boyfriend or walked along the beach with a boyfriend.
I can't take it anymore!! I want a boyfriend- every active pretty woman has had one boyfriend at least in 50 years!! Please bring me a husband or a boyfriend in my lifetime Jesus!!
on Friday, May 6, 2011 at 9:53 pm
Yours is a tough situation for sure, and very painful. Take this post to heart and go through the paragraphs, one by one, humbly asking God to speak to your heart about any areas where you need to hear from Him.
The way to find peace, and freedom from the depression and anger and bitterness, is to go to Him. Take the following paragraph (from the post) and ask God to teach you His ways and desires as you seek Him for a boyfriend or husband:
The whole point of prayer is to grow in relationship with God. The more we talk and listen, the more He shapes the conversation. As we grow closer to Him, our desires shift from what we want—what we think we most need—to what He does. His desires become our desires.
Each day pray and ask God to help you want a relationship with Him more than you want a boyfriend. As you express gratitude, the anger and bitterness will give way, and you will humbly, peaceably, trust Him.
on Saturday, May 28, 2011 at 3:45 pm
I'm 48yrs old and have never been married or in love for that matter. I've had a few, very few so called 'boyfriends'.
I've been praying and asking close friends and clergy to pray for me regarding marriage for over 25yrs. I thought for sure the Lord would have blessed me with a husband, but he hasn't.
I remember when I was in my twenties, and people use to say the one thing they feared most in life was to grow old by themselves. I never felt like that. I just knew I would have been married long before now.
Over the last several years when I was seeking to get closer to the Lord, and desiring to share the gospel, I found myself not desiring to be married, and I didn't care whether I got married or not. But when I started focusing on myself and my desires, the feeling of wanting to get married would overwhelm me.
I've come to realize marriage was not the will of God for my life. You see, when we delight ourselves in the Lord, he gives us the desires of our heart. For me I didn't desire marriage when I delighted myself with the Lord. It has taken me so long to realize this.
Another thing I've learned is to not make anything and idol, including the desire to marry or have a boyfriend.
May the Lord bless you and keep you
on Wednesday, June 1, 2011 at 9:17 pm
Very interesting how things changed for you! Thank you for sharing!
on Wednesday, June 15, 2011 at 6:22 pm
on Thursday, July 7, 2011 at 1:03 am
I use to cry every night about my singleness, so much I would feel sick and I just got tired of that. So I asked God to give me peace and he did. A peace that really does transcend all understanding. When I think of how I handle current issues, I remember how I use to react and I am so shocked I am not handling it the same way.
EM, I was so touched by your post and my heart does feel your pain. But I pray with the blood of Jesus that the strongholds on your soul are broken. That God does a good work in you and bring you to oneness with Him and that in His timing that He brings you the desires of your heart and that you can be a wonderful testimony to others. Dear EM, I prophesy to you and speak faith to you, you are not going through this for nothing, you are going to be a source of inspiration of God's faithfulness. You will be an inspiration for me and every other woman who is going through this. God makes a point every so often to make the impossible happen like healing the blind, giving the barren children, and raising the dead.
A suggestion for all you ladies, a principal of seed time and harvest, pray for all your sisters in Christ who have come across this page and have written on this page. Pray that God heals all of our hearts and help us to grow closer to Him and that he directs us to our destiny.
on Friday, July 8, 2011 at 2:21 am
on Thursday, August 18, 2011 at 6:01 pm
on Monday, August 22, 2011 at 2:54 pm
on Thursday, August 25, 2011 at 8:40 pm
on Sunday, August 28, 2011 at 8:34 am
We are so sorry for what you have experienced in the relationship with your boyfriend. One of the greatest truths in all of Scripture is we can rely on Jesus in painful and difficult times. "Cast all your cares upon Him for He cares for you." 1 Peter 5:7
It is God's mercy that let you see your boyfriend’s true character and behavior. For that you can indeed give thanks.
We are praying God’s great grace for you right now and for your future. It is a personal relationship with Jesus that lays a foundation for all other relationships in our lives. We trust you will have opportunity to build on that foundation in the days ahead.
God bless you, dear Jessica. May His peace be yours this day.
on Monday, August 29, 2011 at 4:10 pm
on Thursday, September 15, 2011 at 9:47 pm
Our hearts hurt along with yours as you share the struggles you have gone through over the last few years. You did the right thing, Genie, by ending your relationship with this doctor. We know it was a difficult decision, but it was the right thing to do. We have prayed for you today and have asked the Lord to move in your heart and meet your deepest heart needs – that He would cause you to recognize Him as the eternal lover of your soul and the husband of your life right now (Is. 54:5). Even though these days are difficult for you, we know that God’s grace is fully able to meet your every need and strengthen you as you trust Him (2 Cor. 12:9-10). May He fill you with His peace as you fix your eyes on Him (Is. 26:3).
on Tuesday, September 20, 2011 at 11:01 am
Currently, I've been praying for God to reveal things in my spirit that need to be improved. I realize that in the past I clung unto men, which never lead to any lasting happiness. I am actively seeking a closer relationship with God amongst all things.
Fortunately, God put a Christian man in my life for some reason, who I am very fond of. We are close friends. He is one of the most loving and kind men that I know. Even though I do not know what the future holds for him and I, I realize through God's annointing on this man... how a man of God is supposed to treat a woman. I will cherish this man forever. God, if it is Your will for us to be together one day, let it be so . Thank you Lord.
I've come to realize that God wants me to cling unto Him...and only Him. I am longing to experience the love of God that supersedes anything of this world. I realize that God's love is eternal and unconditional.
The reality of life's situations has prompted me to seek out the Lord. I do not want to be a widow...and be broken into pieces because I do not have a man at my side. I do not want to be a woman who jumps at any potential mate...due to feeling lonely. IMO this is spiritually dangerous. I want to reach a point where my love for God is SO strong that I will still be functional and capable of serving Him completely...even if I unfortunately lose my mate.
I write this because in my past when I was single I would cling unto the next man who I thought could love me. However, this void I felt was never filled by a man. This space is reserved for God.
I am not saying that a husband can not bring a woman love, but what I am saying is that God's love is stronger than any other Being.
So ladies, to some extent I understand the pain associated with being single. However, in my heart I believe our God is good and His love is great. I will be praying for all the women of this board to be blessed and to live abundantly according to God's will.
on Wednesday, October 5, 2011 at 8:35 pm
on Monday, October 10, 2011 at 12:39 pm
I would like to share this praise song with all...
IN HIS TIME, IN HIS TIME
HE MAKES ALL THINGS BEAUTIFUL IN HIS TIME
LORD, PLEASE SHOW ME EVERYDAY
AS YOU'RE TEACHING ME YOUR WAY
AND I'LL DO JUST WHAT YOU SAY
IN YOUR TIME.
IN YOUR TIME, IN YOUR TIME
YOU MAKE ALL THINGS BEAUTIFUL IN YOUR TIME
LORD, MY LIFE TO YOU I BRING
MAY EACH SONG I HAVE TO SING
BE TO YOU A LOVELY THING
IN YOUR TIME
BE TO YOU A LOVELY THING
IN YOUR TIME.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wo-rGzx2OZk&feature=related
on Monday, October 10, 2011 at 3:10 pm
on Saturday, October 15, 2011 at 7:02 pm
Thank you for your post and your honesty. I pray you will find a “sustained relationship” with God. The Bible tells us that those who seek God with all their heart will indeed find Him. God gives that promise. (Deut. 4:29; 2 Chron. 15:2; Jer. 29:13; Acts 17:27) So, Lily, keep seeking Him and find that close, intimate personal relationship with Him. I encourage you to go to your pastor or a strong evangelical leader in your community and ask him to help you take the steps to a personal relationship with Christ. You will be amazed how the troubles of your life begin to find an answer as you entrust yourself to God and His ways.
We thank the Lord with you that He led you to this post; we pray you will know the love of Christ and His care for you and that He will complete the work He has already begun.
Blessings to you!
on Wednesday, October 19, 2011 at 4:11 pm
on Saturday, October 22, 2011 at 6:44 am
on Friday, December 2, 2011 at 10:23 pm
on Sunday, December 11, 2011 at 8:46 pm
I sympathize with you. You can really feel alone when you don’t sense God’s presence and feel emotionally depleted when you continually give and never seem to receive. Most of us have been in your position at one time or another.
When you feel confident in your relationship with God and His presence in your life, then His purpose and plan will produce satisfaction and joy, though at times you may also be tired. I pray you can find that refreshed in your ife.
You may want to rethink your relationship with Jesus in light of Christmas and Psalm 139. Remember, Jesus died on the cross to save you from your sins—He has saved you from the penalty of sin, is saving you from the power of sin in your life now, and will save you from the presence of sin in the future—at home with Him. Let your thoughts dwell on these truths. If God never did anything else for you, this would be enough to prove His love. This could be one of the most special times in your life.
Bless you as you seek His peace, hope, and joy (Rom. 15:13). I am praying for you.
on Monday, December 12, 2011 at 5:31 pm
on Saturday, December 17, 2011 at 11:32 pm
Blessings,
Miranda
on Monday, December 19, 2011 at 11:53 pm
i starrted relationship while i have 25 yrs and dated for 6 months where i realised my boyfriend was married and separated with his wife but he never told me, i decided to stop with him and promise my self that i will be careful for the next relation, i keeping pray for my future husband for 6 yrs now and i still wainting on him.
on Tuesday, December 20, 2011 at 10:03 pm
Sometimes I get very upset when I think about how I might have been married to a nice man a long time ago if I would have been able to date in peace. It gets depressing for me to think about how I'm in my 30's and still single. I get to be very lonely, but I refuse to hook up with any man just to have someone in my life. I want a good spouse who is going to help me get into Heaven not be a hinderance. (team work to lead good Christian married lives and save our souls is very important to me). However, I do see so many bad ungodly marriages around me and think about how God might have been protecting me from that when I was in my early 20's. I refuse to give up praying to God for a good mate, because I know that with God all things are possible and I cannot have a good marriage without him in my life. When he does answer our prayers positively, things happe so unexpectedly and in such wonderful ways. He and his saints have worked so many unexpected wonderful miracles for me in the past. I have to remind myself of those miracles when I get upset and impatient.
Thank you for this article. Seeing the write ups about praying not just to marry a good Christian man, but for God to fill him with the graces necessary to be a good spouse and for what God wants him to have (inner strengths and qualities). I have a better understanding of how to pray for him. I will also pray for myself to be a good spouse more often.
on Saturday, March 31, 2012 at 3:11 pm
I am also praying and believing God to bring my future husband. I refuse to settle with anyone especially the guy I am seeing. He is never supportive, lazy (hasn't worked in almost 2 years) and rarely goes to church. This is not what I want in a man. I have prayed over this situation and I know I just have to let him go. Now I have to trust and believe God to bring me godly husband I so desire.
on Wednesday, April 4, 2012 at 10:23 pm
on Sunday, April 8, 2012 at 9:10 pm
God bless you, LadyBird.
on Friday, April 13, 2012 at 10:13 am
on Friday, April 13, 2012 at 6:21 pm
I am Asian. I have a 5 year old son. His dad is American. He was never around for my son and hasn't supported him fully although he has been in our country for many years and not in the US. I don't love him anymore but I always feel that we should be together for the sake of our child. I also want to have another child as I adore kids so much but I don't want to have an Asian husband because this may mean I will have a different kid in the future. Now, I have been communicating with a German guy. We've known each other before I met my son's father that means more than 6 years. We only met once because there was no spark between us. Just because I was in love with someone. 2 years later we again exchanged emails. He has now a daughter who just turned 3 but they didn't end up with the mom of the girl who is also Asian. They don't live together with the ex girlfriend. Because of my experience with my son's dad I really felt so scared to try again. I haven't had any relationship whatsoever after my son's dad left me (I was only a month pregnant) (except with my German friend I have right now but like I said we never met in person again). Now I am almost 32 and I really want to have my own family. I want someone to call "honey" (though I call my son honey as well) I want someone I can share with what I did the whole day. I want someone to be a role model to my son and would accept him as his own. He shows interest in "adopting" my son and always tells me "say hi to him or I want to see you and Stephen". He wanted to see me and tried many times to meet up but I always turned him down until I decided to meet up with him soon. Everytime our meeting was near I felt so nervous and would back out. but now I think I am ready... so I have been praying to God to show me sign he's the one... please help me pray for this... I am a little desperate now.. I believe God has plans for everyone. And I believe He knows what's best for me and what's in my heart. Thank you for reading .
on Friday, May 4, 2012 at 4:36 pm
on Saturday, May 5, 2012 at 6:34 pm
One thing you didn’t mention about the German man is his relationship with Christ. You want role models for your son that are dedicated, committed Christians. Find a strong evangelical church for your son to have such men in his life. If the man is not a Christian, God has already spoken in 2 Corinthians 6:14.
There is much to pray about as you consider your future, Mommy Flo. I encourage you to consider the article at http://www.reviveourhearts.com/articles/what-god-hath-joined-together-del-fehsenfeld/. Perhaps it will be helpful to you as you pray about your future. We are praying for you that God will lead you into Truth and give you direction for your life.
God bless you.
on Saturday, May 5, 2012 at 8:00 pm
We believe that Christ’s presence and power in a life is essential for living and walking in purity, and we want you to know that His power is also available for those who have sinned and live with regret. The gospel of Jesus is not only the gospel of salvation, but also the gospel of beginning again. The Lord doesn’t intend for you to carry the burden of the past, and His death and resurrection are there for you right where you are today.
Ask for His forgiveness, then accept His forgiveness, and know that the Christ who makes all things new always brings cleansing with forgiveness (1 John 1:9). There will always be a sense of sadness for your past, but Christ can bring freedom from guilt and regret and a joy about the future. You can be a trophy of His grace. “You faithfully answer our prayers with awesome deeds, O God of our salvation. You are the hope of everyone on earth.” Psalm 65:5
on Monday, May 7, 2012 at 3:30 pm
on Saturday, May 12, 2012 at 11:36 am
on Monday, May 14, 2012 at 5:11 pm
on Saturday, May 26, 2012 at 5:45 am
on Sunday, June 10, 2012 at 4:33 pm
on Monday, June 11, 2012 at 8:33 am
Two days ago, he came to pick me up to go to dinner. When I got in the car he told me that we needed to talk and proceeded to tell me that while he loves me very much, he doesn't know if I am the will of God for his life and that this has been weighing heavily on him. He doesn't feel comfortable continuing with our relationship unless he receives a clear sign or word from the Lord that we are supposed to be together.
This worries me and stresses me out immesnely. I feel like it is a lot of pressure to put on both of us. I am not ready to get married immediately, nor have I been dwelling on marriage (even though I do feel like he is the one). I want us to progress in our relationship and not feel the stress of worrying about marriage until we both feel it is right.
We are taking the nerxt two weeks to fast and pray about our relationship and we are asking God to speak to both of us during this time, and that we both receive the same answer. A clear yes or no.
I would appreciate any prayers at this time. I do want God's best for both of our lives and I am not so committed to what I believe I heard before that I am not willing to accept a different outcome, it is just a difficult situation and I feel fearful and alone. If this is not God's will for us, then I will not only lose someone I love, but I will also lose my best friend, and I know that there will be painful consquences to that.
on Monday, June 11, 2012 at 11:32 am
Remember the prayer promises found in Philippians 4:6 7—“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” As we pray and trust in Him, He takes our anxieties and gives us His peace. You can trust He will see you through whatever comes in your life--good or bad, happy or sad. I am praying for you this day. May God's great peace be yours, CEileen. God bless you.
on Monday, June 11, 2012 at 8:54 pm
on Thursday, June 14, 2012 at 10:39 pm
“I have several very dear friends who know the reality of the heartache you have described in longing to be married and yet remaining single. Though the Lord has not yet granted the desire of their heart, they are choosing (and I’m told it is sometimes a daily choice) to embrace the suffering of their loneliness and pain. The result is women whose lives beautifully reflect the grace of God even in the midst of their yet unanswered prayers.
The Lord’s ways certainly are not always our ways but His ways are always best (Is. 55:8-9), dear friend. The Lord is filled with lovingkindness and compassion toward you. He makes no mistakes; He knit you together in your mother’s womb (Psalm 139:13-14). He lovingly fashioned every detail of who you are and has designed you for a specific plan and purpose in His kingdom (Jeremiah 29:11; Ephesians 2:10).”
Rehearsing these truths and even memorizing the verses will give your mind a place to rest when the struggle is so difficult and painful.
Nancy interviewed one of her single friends in a series entitled Serving God Through Singleness: An Interview With Carolyn McCulley. You can access this three program series at http://www.reviveourhearts.com/radio/revive-our-hearts/hope-deferred/. You will find great encouragement here.
There is hope for joy and completeness while you wait for God to answer. It is found, as you said, in surrender to Him, His ways and His plans. In her book Surrender: The Heart God Controls Nancy says:
“Our natural tendency is to hold on tightly, to try to protect and preserve whatever we think we can’t live without. We are afraid that if we surrender everything to God—our health, our material possessions, our family, our reputation, our career plans, all our rights, our future—He might take us up on it!
Choosing the pathway of full surrender will transform your perspective, set fire to your soul, revolutionize your life, and give the spiritual victory you have sought for so long.”
I pray, allngod, that God will speak to your heart in ways that fulfill your longings and give you peace beyond all understanding (Phil. 4:7). May you indeed enjoy victory as you wait on Him.
Thank you for posting and sharing your heart on this heart issue. Blessings to you!
on Friday, June 15, 2012 at 10:38 pm
I'm 47, never married, no children. I've lived and worked in many countries, many cultures, and have always been looking out for my designated mate. To say I'm disappointed to be at this stage of my life without my longed-and-planned-for-since-childhood husband, family, and home of my own would be the understatement of the century.
I know that God can - and will when it suits Him/is right for us - do absolutely anything. Absolutely EVERYTHING. And strangely, in some ways, that makes the disappointment even harder to bear at times.
"I have faith. And I believe God can and will provide the right one for me to be a helpmeet to. So why doesn't He just DO it already!???"
But I've learned that He actually DOES have someone for me. I just have to learn some deeper lesson in patience before he appears in my life.
The reason I am so sure about this is because God keeps sending messengers to tell me exactly that. Every time I've thrown up my hands over the years and said "Well clearly God's answer to my decades-long request for a husband is 'no', rather than 'yes' or 'maybe', some person - at church, at work, on the street, online - simply pops up from nowhere and looks deep into my eyes in a really unsettling way and tells me "God has someone for you. You just have to be patient..."
I haven't been in the church that whole time. I've recently come back to the Lord. But the message has come to me throughout the years. In church, out of church. Different people. Random places. Same message. Same delivery. Every time that I simply give up and decide I'm going to be single forever so I might as well accept it. And you can imagine that, after more than 3 decades of praying and asking and waiting and going through the pain of broken/painful relationships, I've reached the point of 'giving up' many times.
I actually laughed out loud when I read the part of the article that spoke of how finding a husband can sometimes seem almost as miraculous as walking on water!
Anyway, there is something to be said for learning the lessons God sends to you in miraculous ways. Like I said, mine has something to do with patience, but clearly I'm being pretty slow on the uptake... guess I should be looking at ways to speed up the process!
I'm going home now to pray for my husband, to ask God to lead him in whatever he's up to tonight and this weekend. And then I'm going to pray that my issues surrounding patience will be revealed to me so that God can show me how I need to work on them...
on Friday, July 6, 2012 at 9:43 pm
i have been praying for a husband en i was single for 2years en halve.then i met this guy who has been praying for a wife too.he even had a dream about me being his wife.we met en dated for 1month.but after having sex with him once i realised he was not my husband because i was not satisfied! but for the rest he is very good en caring,prayerful en he loves me so much.the only thing that make me so scared of marrying him is because i fear he may not be able to satisfy me in bed.God does not like adultery so i dont wish to marry en still go out to commit adultery.but i love this guy so much,im so sad to part ways with him,but im also so scared not to be his faithful wife.im so worried en confused
on Monday, July 9, 2012 at 10:33 am
God created sex to be a shared between a husband and wife, not before marriage, but after marriage. Could it be that your dissatisfaction in your sexual encounter with this man was because of the sin of your actions? We encourage you to confess this sin to the Lord, seek His forgiveness and then repent, by not having sex again until you are married.
Learning to satisfy each other sexually is a process that takes time, Nana. It requires the lifetime commitment of a husband and wife. It is an area that a couple continues to grow in all through the years of their marriage. As we grow in our love for each other, we learn to serve each other and we seek to meet the other’s needs above our own.
We encourage you to continue to pray about this, Nana. Remember, Nana, the Lord looks at the heart and not at the outward things of man (1 Sam. 16:7). We are challenged to do the same thing in our lives. We encourage you to choose to look at this man’s heart, at his character, rather than his sexual prowess. Sexual satisfaction is an important part of marriage, but it isn’t the most important thing in a marriage. It is something that is learned and cultivated over time. We are praying that the Lord will guide you as you make these important and lifetime decisions about the man God wants you to marry.
on Monday, July 9, 2012 at 6:01 pm
on Tuesday, July 24, 2012 at 12:26 pm
What you have newly experienced in Christ is a time for the Holy Spirit to reset your priorities and teach you the ways of the Lord. You can be sure if this relationship is of Him, He will cause it to come to pass. You don't have to initiate it in any way. God will lead. Don't hesitate to talk to the Lord each time it comes to your mind, and ask God to help you keep your focus on Him in these early days of faith, and not rush into a relationship. You would need to know much more about this young man--his character, his reputation, his actions, the depth of his commitment to the Lord, etc.--before you made any decisions about even getting into a relationship. That takes time, so wait on the Lord and let Him be the guardian of your heart in these days.
I encourage you to get a journal and begin to write your prayers at night. List everything you are learning about God; write what He is teaching you about Himself. Enjoy the process of thinking through your Bible reading, messages you hear, Bible lessons you are involved in, and the ways you see your heart changing. Realize--you now have a lifetime to seek His will and allow Him to lead. Why don't you start by memorizing Proverbs 3:5-6? It will help you with every decision and guide your heart! Blessings to you, dear Lizzie. We are so glad you posted here!
on Tuesday, July 24, 2012 at 6:17 pm
on Saturday, July 28, 2012 at 12:01 am
Two different....at two different times....prophets prophesied that my husband is soon to come. Before this I had dedicated my entire life to God. Was a mature Christian, i went after the kingdom of God. For a whole year and half I dedicated my life to God. I even went as far to say I don't ever want to get married. It made it easier to stay out of a mans eye, because I wore certain close, people kept asking if I were a nun. It was My personal walk with God.
Before I got the prophesey God kept showing me my husband ... And his hair. Nice hair. Both prophets also talked about his hair lol. I also saw a baby, and both prophets both saw a baby! I was like Lord what are you doing, I just change my whole mind to focus on you, now you will give me all these things.
Your blog reminded me of what I have been doing for years, I have Matthew 6:33 posted in my closet door. And every time I would say Lord I wanted something. I was reminded if I go after God all these things will be added.
It was when I started to focus my entire life on God my entire life God began to recreate.
Thank you for this blog and thank you for sharing everyone.
Truly a blessing
I like the suggestions people have made about teaching their children about keeping there bodies for God and for their future spouse. It shows the values we are to have.
I had children out of wedlock. I was not taught the importance of keeping myself for a special spouse to be in the wil of God.
I also like the comments on a husband journal! I have seen God work through many journals, it would be exciting and fun to see as I pray for my husband and our unity..and see these things in his life.
on Monday, August 13, 2012 at 11:59 am
on Tuesday, August 14, 2012 at 5:25 pm
We are so thankful to know that you know the Lord and that He is the source of your strength during this difficult time! Our hearts break to know of the pain you have gone through in your marriage. We encourage you to give up praying for your husband, for his salvation and the resulting change of his heart. Our God is able to work miracles even in the hardest of hearts (Jer. 32:17).
We have prayed for you today, friend, and have asked the Lord to draw near to you and to be the husband your heart so deeply desires (Is. 54:5). May you find your security, identity and comfort in Him and in Him alone, dear friend.
on Wednesday, August 15, 2012 at 3:27 pm
We are so thankful to know that you know the Lord and that He is the source of your strength during this difficult time! Our hearts break to know of the pain you have gone through in your marriage. We encourage you to give up praying for your husband, for his salvation and the resulting change of his heart. Our God is able to work miracles even in the hardest of hearts (Jer. 32:17).
We have prayed for you today, friend, and have asked the Lord to draw near to you and to be the husband your heart so deeply desires (Is. 54:5). May you find your security, identity and comfort in Him and in Him alone, dear friend.
on Wednesday, August 15, 2012 at 3:29 pm
I had made it my goal to save myself for marriage, but after I started going out with one of my close friends, I gave myself to him because I thought he was the one. It was a terrible mistake! Now I regret doing so because I know I should have waited. And to add insult to injury, my friend made it apparent it was his goal to seduce me from the beginning and "the deed was done."
So after that ordeal, I decided to walk away from that relationship because it wasn't healthy anymore. He just wanted sex, but I wanted more. So to all the single women out there, I would definitely advise if you're still a virgin, wait til marriage! And if you're not, abstain from sex with anyone else until you get married. It's hard, but with God leading you, it's possible.
A great thing happened once I started focusing on God. Other areas in my life improved since I'm not starry-eyed over guys all the time. Last Friday, I was talking with my mother about who God has in store for me. I jokingly told her how funny it would be if the guy in my future looked like a guy on tv she admires. The guy is a young minister that my mom adores. Anyway, we both laughed, thinking nothing more of it.
The next day, my parents and I saw a guy at my church that really resembled the man on t.v. my mom raves about all the time. The guy's never been to my church before, and nobody knew who he was. I just laughed to myself and figured God has an odd sense of humor.
Whether it is an odd coincidence or not, I'm going to keep focusing on God and be sure that I seek Him out, so when He sends my future husband along, I'll be ready. In the meantime, I have to make sure I focus on all the things God has set before me, like growing my faith in Him, finishing my education, etc.
on Sunday, August 19, 2012 at 12:09 pm
I read the article and through most of the comments of the ladies and I must say I have the same struggles you go through. Some of the comments made me scared as women much older than me are still single even thought they are being faithful to God and praying for a husband.
However One comment stuck with me - from "mrsarp" and I hope and pray my story ends as beautiful as hers. Not that other people do not have beautiful stories but its just what I pray and hope for.
I am a 28yr old woman, Christian, praying fasting believing in God for a husband. I have never really had a boyfriend in my life and I am still a virgin. I do struggle one most days but on others I try not to think of it and just live life. I struggle sometimes with my faith because I know God is faithful, and the Bible has many promises for God's children (including me) and also those that walk uprightly with God (which I believe includes me). So I don't get it why a God who loves me, continues to see me struggle and suffer, cry, get mad, sad, annoyed, and even pray and fast through it and serve Him in Church (to name a few) and still I see nothing. One day I heard of a 52yr old woman on Chris Fabry's show and had been faithful to God and still waiting and still a virgin, that day was just one of my worse days ever.
I have seen people who are not faithful get married and are even happily married.
So this confuses me.
Whatever the case, I still pray, I still believe, I still tithe, I am still honoring Him with my body and staying committed to Him. It isn't easy (VERY far from easy), but I am trying. I hope that one VERY SOON day I will write a testimony of my Husband in Jesus' name because I still believe God hears and still answer prayers. Amen.
Be blessed my Sisters in Christ.
on Friday, August 24, 2012 at 10:20 am
on Monday, September 3, 2012 at 2:01 am
on Monday, September 3, 2012 at 10:08 pm
on Sunday, September 16, 2012 at 10:54 pm
on Thursday, September 20, 2012 at 9:20 am
on Monday, September 24, 2012 at 11:45 pm
We dated for awhile and I got pregnant, then he left. I was so hurt at the time but now we are sorta becoming friends again. We have an awesome son.
I don't know what to think. I know I need to trust the Lord on this. Just frustrated and tired.
on Tuesday, September 25, 2012 at 10:46 am
I've been in your shoes and I know how hard this is. Don't compare these dates to your husband, just some advice. Good luck!
on Tuesday, September 25, 2012 at 11:06 am
This book is helping me heal from my past divorce, and clear myself. I use it now to pray for my future husband, to bless every aspect of his life. It also helps me understand what God's intentions for a marriage are.. I use it to test my own motivations for wanting a relationship, and praying God's will will prevail (because sometimes what I want is not the best for me!). I highly recommend this book
on Saturday, September 29, 2012 at 1:19 am
So, I encourage you to go before the Lord and write out your questions before Him. List your feelings pro and con for beginning to date. Then, talk to Him over the next few days and/or weeks until He brings a peace to your heart either way--to date or not to date. He promises to do that, for in James 1:5 He says, "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him." You can trust Him to answer with His wisdom and a peace to rule in your heart. God bless you, tera.
on Monday, October 1, 2012 at 5:47 pm
on Monday, October 1, 2012 at 5:54 pm
on Friday, October 5, 2012 at 3:57 pm
on Monday, October 8, 2012 at 5:09 pm
I witness the Gospel, and having no husband is in no way a hindrance to my calling. I am currently praying for breakdown of anti-marriage yoke, as I have reached a time in my life when I desire the company of a loving, godly husband. However, it is up to the will of God to grant my request. I believe He is answering my prayers, for about 5 months ago, I started communicating with an eligible Christian man that I like. We mainly focus on the Lord in our communication, and I believe spiritual maturity is key to any successful marriage. I hope next time I will be updating you on how the Lord fulfilled the desires of our hearts. Psalm 37:4
While each woman here has unique circumstances, I will encourage you not to approach the marriage issue with bitterness or regret, citing how you have never been kissed, or how no man has ever approached you! Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and the rest shall be added unto you (Matthew 6:33). Any negative attitude is definitely not of God; it is instigated by the flesh succumbing to the traps of the devil. And please ladies, stay away from premarital sex no matter your age or reasons for wanting to do it. It is a deadly sin that will join you to the devils of sexual/spiritual oppression. If you have already had sex while unmarried, confess that sin immediately and ask Jesus to cleanse you of this lust, then rededicate yourself to Him.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20
19 Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, 20 for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.
Reserve yourself for marriage. God wants us always to sow to the Spirit, and to leave all our cares into His hands. He doesn't want ultimatums from us. but dedicated prayer, faith and obedience. As to when He fulfills our prayer request for marriage is to up to Him and His riches in glory.
Blessings.
Evangelist Sister
on Sunday, October 28, 2012 at 4:50 pm
I have been praying about it. Maybe this relationship isn't God's will. I am having a hard time letting go and surrendering this to God. I know in my heart that if it is meant to be everything will work out and that my timing is not necessarily God's timing but it still hurts. I don't know if I should take a break from the friendship too until I get through all this.
on Sunday, October 28, 2012 at 8:51 pm
on Sunday, November 25, 2012 at 8:11 pm
on Wednesday, December 12, 2012 at 2:47 am
on Friday, December 28, 2012 at 8:45 pm
"Heavenly Father, I pray for Caroline and Luke that You will give strength and wisdom for these days. Help them to know the deep, deep love of Christ that constrains them to follow His leading. Cement their hearts to each other in covenantal love and devotion. Bless their marriage. In Jesus' Name, Amen."
on Tuesday, January 1, 2013 at 10:54 pm
on Tuesday, January 15, 2013 at 6:12 pm
A few months ago, I believe that the Lord had told me who was my future husband. I was happy, but so much things been happening at the end of 2012 and begining of 2013. Right now I feel it was just my flesh desire that wanted him . I have not prayed about if this guy is really my husband. The guy is really good brother in christ. Yes I do have feelings for him. I am trying not to have feelings for me because I dont want to develop feelings for a guy who doesnt have feelings for me at all.
( Right I am asking and praying if this guy is my husband so much obstacles thats been going is makking me doubt if he is my husband or not)
To me when we are together and talking about our life and God's will. Everything around us doesn't exist. He's different, but I found out time and time again he goes back to his ex. I see he is fulfilling his flesh desire.
He probably isn't different. Two months ago I found out he had feelings for me. I thought this was it he could probably be my husband. Yet again I found out he spent a day with his Ex.
Wow I'm such an idiot to think he would be with me. After finding out, I am DONE!!!!!!!! with him. I made a conclusion that he doesn't want to be with me at all.
So whenever any thoughts or feelings tries to appear about him I rebuke it in the name of JESUS!!!!! The devil is a liar.
So today when I came over to this site and read the comments . I felt bless. So many stories of struggles and encouragment. I made a choice not to worry so much about marriage
( I will still pray for my future husband) and focus on God's will, truly seek Him and ask my Daddy, who is Lord of Lords and king of kings wants me to do during my singleness. Until I get married. You might ask how do I know if God wants to be single the rest of my life? Well.....
One day during an awesome praise and worship during service. The Lord told me a few things about me and marriage. I would love to share what He told me, but I want to keep it bewteen me and my Father.
on Wednesday, January 30, 2013 at 3:50 pm
on Thursday, January 31, 2013 at 9:29 am
You are doing the right thing by focusing on your relationship with God and serving Him faithfully wherever He places you. Be patient, even though it is hard, to wait God’s timing for a husband. God loves you far more than any husband ever will. God is able to meet all your deepest needs. He is the lover of your soul. He can be trusted to bring the right man along to pursue you when God sees that it is time. I’m praying for you right now, Lin, and asking God to continue to give you the desire to surrender marriage and the patience to wait for God in this area of your life. Stay in the Word, my friend! It will keep you connected to the One who loves you so.
Serving Him,
Lorree
on Thursday, January 31, 2013 at 2:16 pm
on Monday, February 4, 2013 at 1:42 pm
on Sunday, February 17, 2013 at 2:45 am
I’ve prayed for you, for your family and for your fiancé, Codie! I know this is a very, very difficult time. When God created man, at his very core, God planted the need to be the provider for the family. A man will do what it takes to do what God has called him to do. It may not make sense to us, but it is certainly an area that we can pray for our men about. Your fiancé may not have handled his decision in the best way, but if we give him the benefit of the doubt, could it be that he is trying to be the provider that God is calling him to be?
I was wondering if your fiancé sought counsel/treatment for his PTSD? It could be that this is affecting the way he makes decisions. It might be good for you guys to have someone to help you through this challenging time. If you don’t know of anyone in your area, you can find someone at this website, www.nanc.org.
Don’t give up hope, Codie! There is always hope when God is there. Nothing is impossible for God (Lk. 1:37; Jer. 32:17). I encourage you to not give up, but to pray for your man and entrust him into God’s hand and God’s leading. Stay in the Word, my friend! I’m praying.
Serving Him,
Lorree
on Wednesday, February 20, 2013 at 1:47 pm
I am blessed to have come across this page, and have read all of the comments. The biggest thing I feel is relief in knowing that I am not the only one struggling with being single. I have taken to heart all of the scriptures once again, I have done this more than a few times before.
My request is that you pray for God to bring me a husband, and in the meantime that I would be content and rely upon Him. I also need prayer that he will guide me to the areas where he want for me to serve. I live in Los Angeles, where there seem to be no Godly men, and because I am single in a Godless city, I tend to be overly cautious because my family isn't near. It is also difficult to develop long term relationships with mature Christian women, because the city is very transient and people just don't have time for others. This is true even at my church.
Thank you, Sherri
on Sunday, February 24, 2013 at 8:31 pm
Be assured of our prayers for you for the very things you asked. Our Prayer Team prays individually and specifically for each request we receive. We count it a great privilege to seek the Lord on you behalf--asking that He might fulfill the desires of your heart and that He would lead you with clear direction to where you should live and work and worship. You can be sure the Most High God sees every detail of your life and loves you -- keeping His eyes on you and promising to lead you in the way you should go (Ps. 139:1-4; Prov. 3:5-6) Blessings to you, dear Sherri.
on Monday, February 25, 2013 at 5:24 pm
on Wednesday, February 27, 2013 at 12:15 pm
Thank you so much for this article. My colleague and i decided a few days ago to pray for our future husbands, we actually had a guide but i decided to search the web for more and i stumbled on this blog and i'm sure it's the Lord's doing. I am especially touched by what you said about praying for this generation of men to be transformed by God's power to rise up as men capable of commitments of marriage, because to be honest many men are not ready to commit especially where i come from. Thank you so much and please pray for husbands for my 2 sisters who are in their 30's,my colleague and i.God is really faithful,Praise His Holy Name. Amen
Thank you, Elizabeth
on Saturday, March 16, 2013 at 12:11 pm
on Tuesday, April 9, 2013 at 6:39 am
Has he been married to three different women? If so, what does the Bible say about his divorce from these women?
If he has not been married, then he has not regarded God's laws for moral purity. Would you want to be in a relationship with someone who disregards the biblical commands for sexual purity?
Would it be difficult for you to love a man with a whole heart who had many partners before you? He would bring much sexual baggage into a marriage.
Why has he not stayed in one relationship? Is he hard to get along with? Does he treat women harshly? Does he lack the ability to have a commitment to one person? Is he looking for other things in a relationship than you are?
His history brings many questions. If you don't get a green light from your pastor (and it is not likely you will), I encourage you to wait for God's best for you. Do not spend your life in an unequally yoked marriage--God calls you to live with someone in the "light" as you are in the "light" because you are a Christian.
on Saturday, April 13, 2013 at 10:12 pm
on Wednesday, April 24, 2013 at 5:15 am
on Sunday, April 28, 2013 at 10:44 pm