When Your Friends Get Married and You're Still Single

You’re scrolling through social media, and there it is again — another engagement photo or wedding announcement. It can make you pause and wonder, “Why does everyone around me seem to be finding their person while I’m still figuring things out?” If you’ve felt that before, you’re not alone. The truth is, your life is not on anyone else’s timeline but your own. And more importantly, God’s timeline for you is intentional, purposeful, and always good.

Your Path Is Unique

It’s easy to compare your current situation with where others seem to be. But comparison steals joy and shifts your focus away from what God is doing in your life. Ecclesiastes 3:1 reminds us, “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” If marriage isn’t part of your season right now, it doesn’t mean anything is wrong. It simply means God’s plans for you in this moment are different. Every season you walk through has its own purpose and lessons, so lean into this time instead of wishing it away.

Recognize the Gifts of Singleness

Being single often comes with opportunities that are unique to this season. It can be easy to overlook them when you’re longing for something else, but taking time to appreciate where you are can shift your perspective. Consider these gifts:

• Time to build stronger connections. Singleness offers space to deepen relationships with your family and friends in ways that might be harder to do later. These connections matter and are worth cherishing.

• Freedom to pursue personal growth. Whether it’s exploring your passions, advancing in your studies or career, or traveling to new places, this season gives you time to invest in yourself and your goals.

• Opportunity to deepen your faith. This is a season where you can grow closer to God, building a foundation of trust that will carry you through every stage of life. 

Psalm 37:4 says, “Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.” Take this time to draw nearer to Him and invite Him into every part of your life.

How To Find Joy When It Feels Hard

There may be days when being single feels heavy. On those days, remind yourself of where your true value comes from. Your worth is not defined by your relationship status but by your identity as a person created in God’s image (Genesis 1:27).

Here are some practical ways to shift your perspective when it feels tough:

1. Turn to prayer. Be honest with God about how you’re feeling. He can handle your emotions and bring you peace in the process.

2. Practice gratitude. Write down three things you’re thankful for each day, even if they’re small. Reflecting on God’s goodness helps you see the blessings in your life.

3. Celebrate others with an open heart. When a friend gets engaged or married, choose joy for them. Remember, their happiness doesn’t take anything away from the plans God has for you.

Trust God To Write Your Story

Singleness isn’t something to “fix.” It’s a season to live fully, trusting that God is guiding you every step of the way. Jeremiah 29:11 is a powerful reminder of this truth: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

Instead of rushing to the next chapter, rest in the knowledge that God’s timing is perfect. Wherever you are right now, He is at work in ways you may not yet see. Trust Him with the details, live this season with intention, and hold onto the hope that His plans for you are always good.