You’ve found the mate of your dreams. They’re good-looking, and they have a great personality. The time you spent together was so incredible you’ve given them your whole heart. You think things couldn’t get any better. Then they say they want to end the relationship and your whole world comes crashing down around you.
Here is where one of the challenges of being a single Christian comes into play. Fortunately, you won’t always feel glum. There are some things you can do to get over and move beyond the situation.
Let God Help You with Forgiveness
And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses. – Mark 11:25
The Holy Spirit prompts us to forgive even before we feel we’re ready. God will help you to see the mistakes that both of you made in the relationship. As He does so, He’ll also remind you that Jesus took on your sins when He went to the cross. One of the challenges of being a single Christian here has to do with being able to forgive both yourself and your ex.
Although you may find yourself tempted to post a snarky meme or a long rant, don’t. It may feel good at the moment, but it’ll only fuel bitterness. Focus on healing instead.
Be Selective in Who You Talk To
Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. – Ephesians 4:29
Another one of the challenges of being a single Christian has to do with gossip. While we should never engage in gossip, it’s rather tempting to do so after a breakup.
Instead of giving in to temptation and taking to social media to discuss your relationship, keep it private. Only discuss the situation with your family and close friends.
Also, don’t rush into talking to others. Take it to God first. Remember, He holds your heart precious and is there for you. By going to Him first you’ll also be able to avoid any harmful opinions or unconstructive comments. All these things will do is make you mad anyway.
Embrace the Pain
For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. – Jeremiah 29:11
When you’re faced with the break up you’re also faced with additional challenges of being a single Christian. For instance, you may wonder why this happened and when you’ll feel better.
Don’t rush through this stage. Instead, take some time to embrace the pain so you can recover and be free. What this means is that the grieving period will be different for everyone. However, you want to walk away from it by truly letting go. You don’t want to carry any guilt or shame with you.
Let go, Let God
Be ye strong therefore, and let not your hands be weak: for your work shall be rewarded. – 2 Chronicles 15:7
You’ll be tempted to do anything you can to make your relationship work, but don’t. While you may not be able to imagine life without them right now, holding on won’t do any good. You may even still be in love with them, which is why you miss them so much, but let go and let God.
Embrace His love because it’s the only love that won’t fail. He’ll never let go of you. He’s always faithful so you can trust Him with your whole heart. Eventually, this challenge of being a single Christian will end but no matter what, you can say God is good… ALL the time!
Pick Yourself Up, Dust Yourself Off, and Move On
Sure it’s going to feel weird for a while. You look around you to see others who are in relationships. The challenges of being a single Christian are real, but they can also be overcome.
God understands your struggle and has a purpose for your pain. With these steps, you can move on with your life and enjoy the holiday season.