When Hope Feels Low: Scriptures & Encouragement for Singles

There are seasons in life - especially in your 30s, 40s, or 50s - when hope about love, family, or relationships feels like it’s running on empty. Maybe you’ve been single longer than you imagined, your friends are settling into marriage and parenthood, or dating has been a series of disappointments. In those moments, it’s easy to feel forgotten or overlooked.

But Scripture reminds us that God is never absent, even when our circumstances suggest otherwise.

Take Jeremiah 29:11:

“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”

When it comes to relationships, God’s plans are bigger than our timelines, and His love is not dependent on marital status. Just because you don’t see “the one” yet doesn’t mean God isn’t at work in your life.

Or Psalm 37:4:

“Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart.”

It’s okay to desire marriage, companionship, or family - your longing is not shameful. Scripture encourages us to delight in God first, trusting Him with the desires He has placed in your heart. When you root your hope in Him, you can hold onto your dreams without desperation or self-condemnation.

Here are five scriptures to lean on when hope feels low:

1. Isaiah 54:10  “Though the mountains be shaken… my unfailing love for you will not be shaken.”
   When life feels uncertain, God’s love remains unmovable.

2. Romans 8:28 “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him.”
   Even seasons of singleness are shaping your character and preparing you for future relationships.

3. Lamentations 3:22–23 “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning.”
   Each day is a fresh chance to trust, hope, and grow.

4. Proverbs 3:5–6 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart… and He will make your paths straight.”
   Even when the path seems unclear, God is guiding your journey.

5. Philippians 4:19 “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of His glory in Christ Jesus.”
   He knows what you need, including emotional healing, friendship, and love.

When the world tells you to panic, settle, or take shortcuts in relationships, Scripture encourages patience, trust, and faithfulness. It reminds us that God’s timing is perfect, and our identity and joy don’t depend on another person.

Here are three truths to hold onto when hope feels low:

1. God’s love is constant - even when circumstances change.

2. Your longing is not wrong - God created you to desire companionship, but He is enough in the meantime.

3. Every season is a training ground - singleness can deepen faith, develop character, and prepare your heart for future relationships.

In moments of doubt, read, meditate on, and pray through these verses. Let Scripture reshape your hope, reminding you that God’s faithfulness outlasts disappointment, rejection, and the uncertainty of waiting.

X Kate