1 Corinthians 7:8-9 states, "But I say to the unmarried and to widows that it is good for them if they remain even as I. But if they do not have self-control, let them marry; for it is better to marry than to burn with passion."

This verse was the center of the Bible study my roommate and I participated in before returning home for Thanksgiving break. The entire message was focused on how obtaining a single life can reflect so much positive light on yourself and others around you. I could not agree with this idea more.

For all of my fellow single comrades, it is not out of the ordinary to feel lonely and unimportant when surrounded by plenty of romantic relationships. However, it's essential to remember your worth and why God has put you in this position.

God has a plan for all of us.

Whether you are meant to be a doctor, educator, or farmer, etc., God has put us on the Earth for a reason and He intends to give us more than we could ever imagine.

I believe that at this point in my life, God has asked me to flourish in my independence.

I have confidence that God is offering me the chance to deepen my friendships, take time to focus on myself, and give unconditional love to my family. I can honestly state that I have never been happier doing just these things. I also know that when the time is right, God is going to offer me a relationship that is enduring and meaningful.

Now, I don't want anyone to get the wrong idea--I desire a faithful relationship; however, at this point in my life, I am enjoying all of the blessings I have been given independently.

I have obtained several opportunities to join clubs and fully submerse myself into those organizations. I've also been given the time to get to know who I am as a person and work towards being a better me each day.

There is so much value in this independence that I believe individuals who are in relationships should experience.

The message that my roommate and I listened to also discussed how growing your faith independently from your partner is an encouraged practice. This point also proved to me that when you're in a relationship, your beliefs and overall faith should not be something that you have to rely heavily on your partner for. Rather, you should both carry a strong faith in God that will encourage you to be better people.

The idea I am conveying pertains to all of us. Whether you are in a romantic relationship or you are single, remember to flourish in your independence and become closer to God. He has so many positive plans for all of us.