“Nevertheless, each person should live as a believer in whatever situation the Lord has assigned to them, just as God has called them. This is the rule I lay down in all the churches.”

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭7‬:‭17‬ ‭NIV‬‬

The “situation” Paul speaks of in the preceding verses is that little box we call marital status. 

I’ve been divorced over 25 years. It’s so long ago I now just check single. 

Celibate the last 15 of those years, it too is rarely a consideration anymore. 

Both of these “situations” are what I believe I’ve been assigned and called to. 

“Living as a believer” is Paul’s lesson here.  For me, that means not pining for a partner nor struggling with sexuality. 

Without those distractions, I’ve discovered an entire menu of faith expressions wide open for me to explore that more than trying to fill those voids of intimacy. 

Living as a believer within whatever your circumstance should be no special revelation to any of us. It’s as basic a call as the first day you came to know Jesus. 

The unique difference lies not simply in believing in your call, but in your decision to behave upon it. 

Single and celibate for me has come at a high price few desire to pay with so many years still ahead of them. 

But now, with those years behind me, I can attest the sacrifices are entirely worth it. 

Intimacy as a Christian is so much more than partners and pleasures.