Myth #1: Singleness limits ministry opportunities.
Truth: Singleness opens opportunities not accessible to those married and with children.
“ . . . I (Paul) am saying this for your own good, not to restrict you, but that you may live in a right way in undivided devotion to the Lord.” 1 Cor 7:34-35
Singleness is not a constraint. As a young man I was told that it was vital for me to get married or I would miss out on ministry opportunities. Although, it is true that there are ministries jobs that would not hire a single there are also ministry opportunities and approaches that married couples cannot attempt.
I just got off the phone with a single missionary in the Middle East. Everyday his life is in danger. He told me that when there is civil unrest his fellow missionary families have to evacuate the country but he has the privilege of staying behind to share and demonstrate the good news of Jesus with the people in the midst of their suffering.
Myth #2: Singleness inhibits ministry effectiveness.
Truth: In certain areas singleness improves ministry impact because of the mobility of singles, their ability to take risks, and their capability to keep focused with an undistracted attention.
‘I (Paul) have worked much harder, been in prison more frequently, been flogged more severely, and been exposed to death again and again . . . I have been constantly on the move . . . 27 I have labored and toiled and have often gone without sleep; I have known hunger and thirst and have often gone without food; I have been cold and naked.” 2 Corinthians 11:23-27
In the first century singles were entrusted with the responsibility of the expansion of the kingdom of God on earth. Barnabas, Paul, Silas, Titus, Luke, and Timothy provided nimble cutting-edge initiatives for the gospel in the Roman Empire. Though single they taught the scriptures, established spiritual leaders, and led the churches
So very true, and it’s unfortunate you will rarely if ever publicly hear this from a married disciple. It’s very hard for married men and women–more so those publicly known–to admit that they indeed chose to divide their interests between God and their spouse: how to please God vs. how to please their spouse, as Paul put it. It may not even cross their minds, as so much Christian literature and media now *seems* to promote godly married life over and above all other Christian activity.
Godspeed my friend
Praying for you and your missionary friend.