Counsel for the Betrothed and the Widowed
March 8, 2020
Commentary
In yesterday’s passage, Paul encouraged those yet to be married (the betrothed) to consider carefully before marriage. In the same way all of us are commanded to weigh each decision we make against the fact that our time here on earth is short (vv. 29, 31). In Today’s passage, Paul more fully applies this way of thinking to the betrothed (vv. 32-38), and the widowed (vv. 39-40).
“I want you to be free from anxieties” (v. 32a). Paul is not advocating a “care-free” approach to life. Rather we are to live with the end in mind (vv. 29, 31) while being devoted to our gracious God (v. 35). We should entrust our anxieties to Him (1 Peter 5:7; Matthew 6:25-34). An anxious person’s mind is occupied, fully focused on something or someone. Our focus matters a great deal (Rom. 5:5-6). The proper object for Christian’s focus is the Lord (v. 35). There is no need to rush into marriage and create more problems. As much as possible, we should live unhindered by the cares of this world, not getting involved in things that will keep us from doing God’s work (vv. 32-35). Single or married, we all have a choice to whether to focus on God.
“… having his desire under control …” (v. 37). Self-control is important. Whatever decision you make, be sure it is not motivated by blind passion. Instead, think it through (v. 36). If you can honestly say between yourself and the Lord that this marriage you are pursuing is both pure and proper for you and for your betrothed, go ahead and get married. Because each situation is unique, parents and children must seek the Lord’s will. It takes more than two Christian people to make a happy marriage. Marriage does not hold two people together but only love and respect with commitment does (Eph. 5:33). Marriage is a lifetime commitment. There is no place for a “trial marriage”, thinking that if things don’t work out, we can always get a divorce.
Application
I should be content in the stage of life that I’m presently in, whether I’m married or single. If I’m always thinking about ways to serve God elsewhere, I’ll miss the opportunities he has for me here.
1 Corinthians 7:32– 40 (NET)
32 And I want you to be free from concern. An unmarried man is concerned about the things of the Lord, how to please the Lord. 33 But a married man is concerned about the things of the world, how to please his wife, 34 and he is divided. An unmarried woman or a virgin is concerned about the things of the Lord, to be holy both in body and spirit. But a married woman is concerned about the things of the world, how to please her husband. 35 I am saying this for your benefit, not to place a limitation on you, but so that without distraction you may give notable and constant service to the Lord.
36 If anyone thinks he is acting inappropriately toward his virgin, if she is past the bloom of youth and it seems necessary, he should do what he wishes; he does not sin. Let them marry. 37 But the man who is firm in his commitment, and is under no necessity but has control over his will, and has decided in his own mind to keep his own virgin, does well. 38 So then, the one who marries his own virgin does well, but the one who does not, does better.
39 A wife is bound as long as her husband is living. But if her husband dies, she is free to marry anyone she wishes (only someone in the Lord). 40 But in my opinion, she will be happier if she remains as she is—and I think that I too have the Spirit of God!