9. What inspired counsel regarding marriage should we seriously consider?

⁹ Many Christians do get married, but not all. You know that Jesus did not, and he said that some disciples would have the gift to “make room for” singleness in their mind and heart. He urged those who could to do so. (Read Matthew 19:11, 12.) Therefore, it would be proper to commend, not tease, one who pursues singleness so as to do more in God’s service.

¹¹ Many single Christians​—men and women, whether young or advanced in years—​are following Jeremiah’s good example. Experiences show what a great help it is to be immersed in God’s service, to have a large share in meaningful spiritual activities. For example, a Witness serving with a Chinese-language congregation observes: “Pioneering gives my life direction. As a single sister, I lead a busy, active life, which helps me to avoid loneliness. I feel satisfied at the end of each day because I can see that my ministry really helps people. This gives me great joy.” A pioneer aged 38 says: “I think the secret to happiness is being able to enjoy the positive aspects of whatever situation you find yourself in.” An unmarried Christian in southern Europe noted frankly: “My life may not have turned out exactly as I planned, but I am happy and will continue to be so.”

12, 13. (a) What is a realistic view of both singleness and marriage? (b) Paul’s life and counsel underscore what about singleness?

¹² Could it be that Jeremiah noted that his life had not turned out as he had planned while growing up? But he might wisely have seen that such is also true of many who marry and have children. A pioneer in Spain shared this insight: “I know married people who are happy and others who are unhappy. This reality convinces me that my happiness does not depend on whether I get married in the future or not.” Without question, Jeremiah’s experience​—just one of thousands—​proves that a full, rewarding, happy life is possible for one who is single. We have further confirmation from the apostle Paul, who wrote: “I say to the unmarried persons and the widows, it is well for them that they remain even as I am.” (1 Cor. 7:8) Paul may have been a widower. In any case, he was unmarried when he did so much in the missionary service. (1 Cor. 9:5) Is it not reasonable to conclude that his single state was an advantage? For him it meant “constant attendance upon the Lord without distraction,” and thus he accomplished much good.​—1 Cor. 7:35.