Title: Married but Living Single — A Spiritual Devotional.

 

Scripture: It is not good for the man to be alone” (Genesis 2:18).

In the sacred bond of marriage, two hearts vow to journey as one. Yet for many, the reality feels far from that divine design. The phrase “married but living single” captures a quiet ache—where emotional distance, spiritual disconnection, and relational isolation replace the intimacy God intended.

God’s Blueprint for Marriage

From the beginning, God declared, “It is not good for the man to be alone” (Genesis 2:18). He formed woman not merely as a companion, but as a co-laborer in purpose. Marriage was never meant to be a contract—it is a covenant, sealed by God, where “the two become one flesh” (Genesis 2:24). Jesus affirmed this in Mark 10:9: “Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.”

This oneness is not automatic. It must be nurtured through love, mutual submission, and shared pursuit of God. Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 7:3–5 that spouses are to fulfill each other’s needs—not just physically, but emotionally and spiritually. When this is neglected, couples may drift into a state of silent separation.

Signs of Living Single in Marriage

Living single within marriage may manifest as:

- Withholding affection or communication.

- Making decisions without unity.

- Prioritizing personal ambitions over shared goals.

- Harboring unresolved conflict or resentment.

Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 7:10–11 urge reconciliation, not retreat. And Jesus warns, “A house divided against itself cannot stand” (Mark 3:25). The enemy thrives where unity is fractured—but God is a healer of broken bonds.

 Biblical Principles for Restoration

- Commitment: “A wife is bound to her husband as long as he lives” (1 Corinthians 7:39). Marriage is a lifelong covenant, not a temporary arrangement.

- Intimacy and Provision: “Do not deprive one another…” (1 Corinthians 7:5). Emotional and physical intimacy are sacred responsibilities.

- Love and Respect: “Husbands, love your wives… Wives, respect your husbands” (Ephesians 5:25, 33). These are not suggestions—they are divine commands.

- Unity in Purpose: “And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity” (Colossians 3:14).

Steps Toward Reconnection

If you feel alone in your marriage, take heart—God is near, and healing is possible. Consider these steps:

- Communicate Openly: Share your heart with your spouse. Vulnerability is the gateway to intimacy.

- Seek Godly Counsel: Invite wisdom from trusted mentors or counselors grounded in Scripture.

- Pray Together: Prayer softens hearts and invites divine intervention.

- Renew Your Vows: Reflect on your commitment and ask God to rekindle your love.

A Prayer for Healing and Unity

> Lord, restore what has grown distant.  

> Where silence reigns, let Your voice speak peace.  

> Where love has faded, breathe new life.  

> Teach us to honor our covenant,  

> To serve one another with grace and humility.  

> May our marriage reflect Your love—faithful, forgiving, and full of joy.  

> In Jesus’ name, Amen.

©Dr Joel Olanrewaju, gbemide09@gmail.com. Send your comments through the channel you found the message. Please share with your contacts it might restore hope.