Marriage is Not the Solution1 Corinthians 7:26
Because of the present crisis, I think that it is good for a man to remain as he is.
Thoughts for Today:Many people read our passage today and focus on the last part: "I think that it is good for a man to remain as he is." They think Paul is saying marriage is not a good choice for Christians (especially the ones who serve in ministry), when compared to remaining single. Before we jump to conclusions let's take a closer look at the historical perspective from which Paul makes his comment. This is reflected in the opening of our passage: "Because of the present crisis..."
In all probability, the Lord had provided Paul with foresight into coming events. This included the imminent persecution of the church by the Roman Government. History tells us that Paul's advice proved to be both timely and extraordinarily practical. From his own experience, he knew that remaining single encouraged a level of independence and fearlessness, which was difficult to achieve when compared to a married person whose decisions are often influenced by concerns for the well-being of spouse and children. It's clear that Paul preferred a single-minded pursuit of service on the Lord's behalf -- without any family distractions or restrictions.
However, there is another subtle point to be made: Marriage won't solve our personal troubles. It won't work out problems with loneliness, sexual immorality, or other emotional issues. Yet, marriage is often chosen as the solution to these problems. In reality, Jesus is the only answer, not our spouse or loved ones. Psalm 107:9: "[The Lord] satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things." In other words, getting married to hide from our problems will not resolve anything.
Questions to Ponder:Where is your focus when confronted with difficulties? Is it upon your spouse or the Lord? Are you blaming a loved one for some of your own personal issues? Have you sought the Lord? He alone is worthy of our trust.
Because of the present crisis, I think that it is good for a man to remain as he is.
Thoughts for Today:Many people read our passage today and focus on the last part: "I think that it is good for a man to remain as he is." They think Paul is saying marriage is not a good choice for Christians (especially the ones who serve in ministry), when compared to remaining single. Before we jump to conclusions let's take a closer look at the historical perspective from which Paul makes his comment. This is reflected in the opening of our passage: "Because of the present crisis..."
In all probability, the Lord had provided Paul with foresight into coming events. This included the imminent persecution of the church by the Roman Government. History tells us that Paul's advice proved to be both timely and extraordinarily practical. From his own experience, he knew that remaining single encouraged a level of independence and fearlessness, which was difficult to achieve when compared to a married person whose decisions are often influenced by concerns for the well-being of spouse and children. It's clear that Paul preferred a single-minded pursuit of service on the Lord's behalf -- without any family distractions or restrictions.
However, there is another subtle point to be made: Marriage won't solve our personal troubles. It won't work out problems with loneliness, sexual immorality, or other emotional issues. Yet, marriage is often chosen as the solution to these problems. In reality, Jesus is the only answer, not our spouse or loved ones. Psalm 107:9: "[The Lord] satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things." In other words, getting married to hide from our problems will not resolve anything.
Questions to Ponder:Where is your focus when confronted with difficulties? Is it upon your spouse or the Lord? Are you blaming a loved one for some of your own personal issues? Have you sought the Lord? He alone is worthy of our trust.
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