Must I Re-Marry?

I lost my wife just 4 months ago and I so much want to go and be with her in heaven. My wish to be with her and praying for it doesn’t feel wrong to me. But not ever wanting another I’m told is. Why? Where does God’s word say I need to remarry?

Q. I thank you so much for your site and ministry.I read and study everyday.

My problem is I lost my wife just 4 months ago and I so much want to go and be with her in heaven. My wish to be with her and praying for it doesn’t feel wrong to me. But not ever wanting another I’m told is. Why? Where does God’s word say I need to remarry? I wish to remain alone until the time of my leaving this world or the rapture which I feel is soon.

Will I see and know my wife and is she really looking for my coming? I only love her and always will. No more wives. Will God answer my request for this and honor my waiting?

A. People who tell you to move on and find another wife may be well intentioned, but there’s no Biblical requirement for you to re-marry. If you wish to remain unmarried and are willing and able to accept the hardships of living alone then that’s your right. Paul advised unmarried believers to remain so in order to devote all their energy to serving God. (1 Cor. 7:8 & 32-34)

But I will advise you to find an active way to serve to make good use of the time you have left. Sitting alone at home and thinking only about the life you shared with your wife and longing to be with her is a recipe for misery and will give the enemy more opportunity to torment you.

I’m certain that there are many ministry opportunities available to you. Pick one and stay busy. You’ll be providing a valuable service and making the time until you see your wife again go much faster. And yes, you will see and know your wife and she is waiting to see you again.