WEDNESDAY, JUNE 21
1 Corinthians 7:6-9
Matthew 19:11-12

"But every man hath his
proper gift of God…"

SINGLEHOOD IS A GIFT

Paul made it clear that neither to remain single or to be married was a must (1 Cor 7:7). Not everyone is given the "grace gift" (charisma) of singlehood by God. The one who is single will not be burdened by marital cares and can serve the Lord whole-heartedly. Thus, Paul wished that everyone could have the gift of singlehood like him. However, not everyone is given this "grace gift." Jesus taught in Matthew 19:11-12, "But he said unto them, All men cannot receive this saying, save they to whom it is given. For there are some eunuchs, which were so born from their mother's womb: and there are some eunuchs, which were made eunuchs of men: and there be eunuchs, which have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven’s sake. He that is able to receive it, let him receive it."

On the other hand, those who do not have this gift should marry as they may not be able to contain themselves. Once a couple know that it is God’s will for them to be married to each other, they should not delay their marriage unnecessarily, or they may be tempted, and fall into the snare of the devil. The Westminster Larger Catechism Question 139 teaches that the Seventh Commandment forbids "undue delay of marriage."

However, many couples fearing to take up the responsibilities of marriage, as well as being burdened by the cares of the world, purposefully delay their marriages contrary to God’s good teaching. Alas, when they cannot contain and commit fornication, much grief and pain will be created.

How then does one know whether he or she has the gift of singlehood? The key is to walk close to God and pray. If you are called into marriage, He will bring the spouse He has appointed for you into your life. On other hand, if His will for you is to remain single, He will also make the pathway clear.

THOUGHT: To be single or married is in the hands of God.
PRAYER: Lord, help me to abide in Thy will.