1 Corinthians 7:25–27: Now concerning virgins: I have no commandment from the Lord; yet I give judgment as one whom the Lord in His mercy has made trustworthy. I suppose therefore that this is good because of the present distress—that it is good for a man to remain as he is: Are you bound to a wife? Do not seek to be loosed. Are you loosed from a wife? Do not seek a wife.
“The present distress” was that awful situation in Corinth which Paul knew was not going to continue. Someone asked me, “Do you think this excessive immorality and this lawlessness in our nation will continue?” If it does continue, my friend, it will bring down our houses and destroy our nation—then it will be ended for sure.
Now what does he say? In the present distress, since you have come to Christ at such a difficult time, if you are bound to a wife, stay with her. If she is unsaved, stay with her as long as you can. If you are not married, then, because of the present distress with the tremendous immorality that is here, it would be best for you to remain single. Paul says this is his judgment. 1
Application
- Read Psalm 25:16-21. What hope do these Scriptures bring to a distressed heart?
- Read Hebrews 13:5. In marriage or singleness, what is the key to finding contentment?
Thought to Share
It is in my distress that His peace visits me, abundantly. – TWEET IT
Prayer
Lord, help me to be content regardless of my circumstances.
1. McGee, J. V. (1991). Thru the Bible commentary: The Epistles (1 Corinthians) (electronic ed., Vol. 44).
