Godly Wisdom for Gospel Living Session 18 – Single or Married? Content in Our Calling

Finding Contentment in Christ: Embracing Your Season of Life Have you ever felt like your relationship status defines you? Whether single or married, it's easy to fall into the trap of thinking our worth comes from our marital state. But what if I told you there's a better way? A way to find true contentment, regardless of whether you're walking down the aisle or flying solo? In 1 Corinthians 7, the Apostle Paul gives us some surprising advice about singleness and marriage that challenges our cultural assumptions. Let's dive in and see what wisdom we can glean for our lives today. The Unexpected Advantage of Singleness Paul starts off by saying something that might shock us: singleness can actually be preferable in some cases! He gives several reasons for this: 1. The Pressure of Present Difficulty Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 7:26, "I suppose therefore that this is good for the present distress—I say that it is good for a man to remain as he is." He's acknowledging that life can be tough, especially for believers facing persecution. Being single can sometimes make it easier to navigate those challenges. 2. The Problems of the Flesh Marriage isn't always smooth sailing. Paul candidly admits in verse 28, "But if you do marry, you have not sinned; and if a virgin marries, she has not sinned. Nevertheless such will have trouble in the flesh, but I would spare you that." Marriage brings its own set of complications and difficulties. 3. The Passing of the World Here's a perspective-shifting truth: "The time is short...For the fashion of this world is passing away" (verses 29, 31). Paul reminds us that everything in this world is temporary. Marriage, sorrow, joy, possessions - none of it lasts forever. This should impact how we view our lives and priorities. 4. The Preoccupation of Marriage Paul points out that married people naturally have divided attention: "But he who is married cares about the things of the world—how he may please his wife" (verse 33). Singleness can allow for a unique focus on serving the Lord. The Freedom to Serve Now, don't get me wrong. Paul isn't saying marriage is bad or that everyone should be single. He's simply highlighting that singleness can be a gift that allows for unique service to the Lord. It's not a lesser state or just a temporary phase until you find "the one." If you're single, see the opportunity you have to make a difference for eternity in that way. And if you're married, recognize the opportunity you have to make a difference for eternity in your unique situation. The Key to Contentment Whether single or married, Paul's overarching message is clear: be content where you are. He writes in verse 24, "Brethren, let each one remain with God in that state in which he was called." This contentment doesn't come from our circumstances. It comes from seeking first the kingdom of God. As I often say, "God's story and God's plan for your life is so much better than your story and your plan for your life." Putting It Into Practice So how do we apply this wisdom to our lives? Here are some practical steps: 1. Seek God First: No matter your relationship status, make your relationship with God your top priority. Jesus said, "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you" (Matthew 6:33). 2. Embrace Your Season: Instead of wishing for a different stage of life, look for ways to serve God fully right where you are. 3. Guard Against Idolatry: Don't put marriage (or the idea of marriage) on a pedestal. Remember, only God can truly satisfy our hearts. 4. Live for Eternity: Keep an eternal perspective. As Paul reminds us, everything in this world is passing away. Invest in what lasts forever. 5. Trust God's Plan: Remember, "God's story and God's plan for your life is so much better than your story and your plan for your life." Trust His timing and His wisdom. In closing, let me remind you of something even more important than your marital status: your status with the Lord. Do you know for sure that heaven is your home? Have you repented of your sins and put your faith in Christ? That's the most crucial decision you'll ever make. For those who are in Christ, may we learn to be content in Him, seeking first His kingdom in whatever season of life we find ourselves. After all, true satisfaction is found not in a relationship status, but in a relationship with our Savior.