They Were Single Too

They Were Single Too: 8 Biblical Role Models, David Hoffeditz, Kregel (2005), 145 pages, $12.00.

I recently read a book entitled “They were single too” by David Hoffeditz, a single man who pastors Rocky Point chapel in Springfield, Ohio and also serves as a seminary professor.  In this book, he gave eight biblical examples of single individuals who lived holy lives before God in spite of the fact that they married later in life or didn’t tie the knot at all. Joseph, for instance, repeatedly resisted the temptation to commit adultery with Potipher’s wife stating: “…behold, my master wotteth not what is with me in the house, and he hath committed all that he hath to my hand; there is none greater in this house than I ; neither hath he kept back anything from me but thee, because thou art his wife: how then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God” (Genesis 39:8b,9). He talks about Paul and his contentment in the single life and how it was his wish that everyone could serve the Lord in the same way that he could as a single man. Hoffeditz also talks about Anna who served in the temple at the time of Jesus, interacted with families that came to the temple, and who was content in this way of life despite having no children of her own. These individuals highlight the need for those of us who are single Christians to be active members of the church in whatever capacity God gives us. These individuals also highlight the need to resist temptation and to persevere if one’s singleness is the result of death or divorce. I found the book to be very interesting, as the author brings some of his own experiences into the book, such as the loneliness he experienced as a student in Scotland. It is also a very biblical book that can help single Christians such as myself and others find contentment in the way that God is leading us. If you have the opportunity to read this book, I recommend you do so. It will help you gain a better understanding of the way God requires those of us who are single to live in this world.

Kevin Rau