The 5 Most Common Challenges for Singles in the Church Today

Christian singles, particularly those seeking to understand God’s perspective on their season of singleness, often feel stuck navigating a maze of challenges. From cultural pressures to the church's messaging, being single in the Body of Christ can feel both isolating and overwhelming.

Why does this matter? Singles are not incomplete or waiting to "arrive" at a better season. God has a purpose for singleness and understanding that purpose is essential for thriving in this season.

Here’s what you need to know.

1. The Pressure to Marry Over the Purpose to Thrive

Many Christian singles feel an unspoken pressure to find a spouse as the ultimate goal of their season. The church, family, and cultural expectations often highlight marriage as a symbol of maturity or fulfillment.

Why this matters: This misplaced emphasis can lead to feelings of inadequacy, rushing into unwise relationships, or losing sight of the present purpose God has for their life. Singleness is not a waiting room but a unique opportunity for growth, ministry, and intimacy with Christ.

What to do: Refocus your mindset by studying biblical examples of single individuals who lived purposefully. Start with Paul’s perspective in 1 Corinthians 7:32-35, where he emphasizes the undivided devotion singles can give to the Lord.

2. Feeling Overlooked in the Church Community

Singles often report feeling like an afterthought in a church culture that heavily emphasizes marriage and family. Sermons, programs, and events can leave singles feeling excluded or undervalued.

Why this matters: When singles feel overlooked, they may become disconnected from their faith community, missing opportunities for fellowship and spiritual growth. Everyone, regardless of marital status, is vital to the church body.

What to do: Advocate for change by initiating or joining ministries like S.A.L.T. that cater to singles. Use your voice to remind church leadership of the importance of including singles in broader church life and teaching.

3. Confusion About God’s Purpose for Singleness

For many, singleness feels purposeless—a gap to be filled rather than a season to embrace. Without clear teaching, singles may adopt worldly views of dating or view their singleness as a punishment.

Why this matters: Understanding God’s purpose for singleness transforms it from a season of lack into a season of abundance. This perspective shift allows singles to walk in confidence, trusting God’s timing.

What to do: Dive deep into Bible study to uncover God’s design for this season. Consider joining ministries that guide you in discovering the purpose of singleness and how to live it out fully.

4. Struggles with Loneliness and Contentment

Loneliness is a common challenge for singles, leading some to seek fulfillment in unhealthy relationships or distractions. The lack of companionship can amplify feelings of discontentment.

Why this matters: True contentment doesn’t come from a relationship but from intimacy with Christ. Without addressing this, singles may repeat cycles of hurt and unfulfillment.

What to do: Develop a routine of spiritual disciplines like prayer, Bible study, and community service to deepen your relationship with Christ. Remember, contentment is cultivated—not stumbled upon.

5. Worldly Dating Advice Conflicting with Biblical Truths

The internet is flooded with dating advice, but much of it conflicts with biblical principles. Singles often struggle to discern what aligns with God’s Word and what leads them astray.

Why this matters: Following worldly dating advice can result in emotional hurt, broken relationships, and distance from God’s plan. Singles need biblically grounded guidance to navigate this area.

What to do: Commit to seeking counsel from God’s Word and ministries which provide practical, Bible-based insights into relationships and singleness.

Conclusion: Singleness Is a Season of Opportunity

Singleness is not a curse or a season to endure—it’s an opportunity to grow closer to Christ, discover your purpose, and thrive in your God-given identity. By understanding these common challenges and how to overcome them, you can live a full, meaningful life that glorifies God in this season.

If you want to stop going in and out of relationships and being hurt every time, you must have a proper understanding of who you are in your relationship with the Trinity (God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit). Without a proper understanding of the Trinity, you cannot have a full understanding of yourself or what a real, meaningful relationship looks like.