I cannot imagine life without the companionship, partnership, and love of my wife. I love being married. Without her, I would fall into sinful lust for sure. So, the question of marriage was resolved over 35 years ago. Today, I see a growing group of young people in the church resolving that question at an early age too. But, I also see confusion, delay, and disregard for the apostle Paul’s advice. Paul, in essence makes the argument, when you come to Christ, a good deal of inward transformation is occurring. But, some aspects of life do not need to change necessarily (whether you are circumcised, serve in the military, are a servant or slave, etc.) Then he says, being married brings responsibilities and burdens, so if you can remain unmarried, you may be undistracted in your service to the Lord. But, know the ‘gift’ God has given you. If you do marry, that’s ok. If you want to remain a virgin, that ok too! I agree with this advice that comes from pastor John MacArthur for engaged couples,… keep the engagement short: “I believe that once a Christian couple decides to get married they should do it fairly soon. In a day of lowered standards, free expression, and constant suggestiveness, it is extremely difficult to stay sexually pure. The practical problems of an early marriage are not nearly as serious as the danger of immorality.” Let’s talk more about marriage, serving God as singles, and who we are in Christ. That way we can be resolved and fully available to God to the degree He has desired.
But I want you to be free from concern. One who is unmarried is concerned about the things of the Lord, how he may please the Lord; but one who is married is concerned about the things of the world, how he may please his wife, 34 and his interests are divided. The woman who is unmarried, and the virgin, is concerned about the things of the Lord, that she may be holy both in body and spirit; but one who is married is concerned about the things of the world, how she may please her husband. 35 I say this for your own benefit, not to put a restraint on you, but to promote what is appropriate and to secure undistracted devotion to the Lord. 1 Corinthians 7:32-35 NASB
Do I see my married relationship as a gift from God? Am I serving Him, while still fulfilling my duties as a husband, father, etc.?
God, as this day begins- I thank You for the state You called me into. Now, after 35 years, I see my wife as a gift and treasure even more. I pray each of my children enjoy the state they find themselves in and serve You with joy and fervor. Would you help me complete the major projects I am working on for others today? I need Your wisdom, insight, and diligence. Thank you for those I work alongside. This life is a blessing and joy.
