But if any man thinks that he is acting unbecomingly toward his virgin daughter, if she is past her youth, and if it must be so, let him do what he wishes, he does not sin; let her marry.
But he who stands firm in his heart, being under no constraint, but has authority over his own will, and has decided this in his own heart, to keep his own virgin daughter, he will do well. So then both he who gives his own virgin daughter in marriage does well, and he who does not give her in marriage will do better. 1 Corinthians 7:36-38
I was part of a joyful wedding this last weekend. I love the moment when the father of the bride is asked “Who gives this woman to be married to this man”? The Apostle Paul made a good case that its easier to serve the Lord when you are single. Sensing an impending persecution and difficulty for believers, he advised the Corinthian church not to re-marry if they had been widowed and to consider remaining single so they wouldn’t suffer additional heartache. In addition, he reminded them that they could focus on ministry better. Now, he gave fathers discretion in giving away their daughters. If they were fully convinced that marrying was right, they should give her away. The overall principle Paul is making is that we have become first and foremost dedicated to God and our decision-making should reflect that priority.
Am I praying through the big and small decisions in life? Or am I just winging it on my own?
God, as this day begins… I will seek You and your will in the decisions I make. Please guide me with Your wisdom and speak a word when I need clarification. Thank you for the joy of being married!
