As a child, I couldn’t wait to grow up. “I’m seven going on eight. I’m sixteen going on seventeen. I’m twenty going on twenty-one.” The allure of the next stage of life consumed my thoughts. Middle schoolers eagerly anticipate high school, while high school students long for the freedom of college. College students, in turn, yearn for full adulthood and the independence it promises. There seems to be a perpetual rush to the next chapter, leaving little room to appreciate the present moment.
Reflecting on the powerful series “Here is Holy” by Pastor Mike Todd, I realize how much I have been swept up in this rushing mentality, particularly regarding my singleness. I eagerly desired to be married, and there were moments during my twelve-year wait before meeting my fiancé when I despised my current state. I couldn’t fully appreciate the beauty of being “here.” But looking back now, I struggle to recall why I was so eager to tie the knot.
Initially, my desire stemmed from a fear of being alone, which is entirely understandable. Then it shifted to appease the critics who constantly asked, “When will you get married? Aren’t you seeing anyone?” Finally, it was the fear of missing out that led me into fruitless relationships, settling for less than God’s best. Looking back, I am incredibly grateful that God did not give me what I thought I wanted. He patiently waited until both my fiancé and I were truly ready. Had we rushed into marriage prematurely, we would have caused each other immense harm. Our immaturity would have been a destructive force.
Although I don’t claim to have reached a state of perfection, I can confidently say that I am in a much healthier place than I was just two years ago. So, what do I truly desire for my wedding day? Of course, there will be joy, delicious food, dancing—especially the cherished dance with my father—and beautiful pictures. However, above all else, my heart longs for God’s presence to permeate our union. I yearn for His glory to shine through our marriage, revealing to this generation that Kingdom relationships still exist.
I understand now that our marriage is not solely about us. It is a platform, a stage upon which we can display the love of Jesus. Our union should bring encouragement and hope to others, showing them that there is something special about relationships grounded in the Kingdom of God. Embracing this calling is not easy, and that’s precisely why God made me wait. He wanted me to embrace His desires, not just my own.
So, until God leads you to the next phase of your journey, take the time to appreciate this season. Remember, “Here is Holy!” God sees exactly where you are and knows what is best for you. There is no need to rush.
Written by Daria White Osah
Check out The Christian Singles Hub website for information on Christian matchmaking, Christian speed dating, upcoming Christian retreats, events, trips and so much more at https://thechristiansingleshub.com/
You can find Daria Here:
Devotional https://www.amazon.com/Dear-Younger-Me-Devotional-Personal-ebook/dp/B09QRKBRGB/
Her podcast Single Plus https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/singleplus
& on Instagram @mysingleplus
