Have you ever been rejected by someone?
Is that even a question? We’ve all been there.
It’s really not fair. Most all of us grow up buying into the fairytale romance, the perfect soulmate, and the “God’s timing” campaign.
These aren’t wrong. The first two might be a little idealistic, but the last one definitely holds the most truth.
God’s timing.
What a concept.
I’ve watched so many people dive headfirst into relationships that have no definition or promise of a future. Of course, there are plenty of relationships that blossom. A handful of my friends have steady boyfriends that survived the test of time.
Then there’s me. All I know about dating is that my series of almost-relationships died before they fully blossomed. These almost-relationships died before the dates, the meeting-of-the-parents, and prom.
It is so easy to be envious of happy people. I find myself wishing I had a guy I could depend on, someone who is absolutely crazy about (first) Jesus and (second) me. It seems like I’ve been waiting an eternity and a half (because we all know that’s how long high school lasts).
Why me, God? Why did you choose me to wait?
It’s all so superficial and ridiculous. Why should I feel pressured to find my soulmate before high school graduation? The world is moving so fast that we all jump at the first chance we get to fall in love, even if our prospects aren’t God-honoring.
Tell me: Why do we care what the world thinks of us?
I don’t care what you say, if you believe you’re a Christian, then you must acknowledge your calling from God. Romans 12:2 says, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”
We can’t cut out the pieces of the Gospel we don’t agree with. You cannot pick and choose what you’re going to follow from God’s Word. It’s all or nothing, my friends.
I am so, so guilty of this. My word and deed don’t always measure up to God’s standards, and that’s not God’s fault. Most recently, I find myself staring in the mirror and wondering what ghastly flaw I possess that could be the reason I’m single. Rarely ever do I stop to consider the fact that maybe, just maybe, I’m single because God has someone far better for me out there than the jerks I’ve almost-dated.
I am immeasurably thankful God pulled me away from wasting more of my time on fools who couldn’t appreciate me. I can’t explain why, but everybody has different books with distinct chapters hand-written by God Himself. Comparing my chapter to someone else’s is a royal squander of my self-worth.
If you’re currently in a relationship, I would challenge you to evaluate which direction the relationship is going. I know, I know– why would you take advice from someone who hasn’t actually dated anyone? Consider my almosts, and compare them to your completes. Is your relationship blossoming in a God-honoring way, or is it a destructive, deadly distraction? If the relationship is blossoming, I am so happy for you! But don’t be afraid to let that person go if the relationship is wilting. There is a sea of godly people out there, and you won’t be missing out.
If there’s one thing I’ve observed from my friends, it’s how painful breakups can be. Be so careful with your heart, friends. It’s not for sale. Your heart is priceless, so listen as God directs your path to show you someone who understands your worth.
Never, ever settle. Love is the grandest adventure– save it for someone who’s worthy to travel with you.
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