How can married individuals balance their concerns with devotion to the Lord? Setting the Context 1 Corinthians 7:32: “I want you to be free from concern. The unmarried man is concerned about the work of the Lord—how he can please the Lord.” • Paul’s immediate subject is singleness, yet by contrast he shines a light on the unique tensions marriage brings. • Verse 33 completes the thought: “But the married man is concerned about the affairs of this world—how he can please his wife.” The Tension Identified • God designed marriage (Genesis 2:24). It is good, yet it adds “affairs of this world” that can divert focus. • The challenge: love spouse wholeheartedly (Ephesians 5:25) without drifting from wholehearted love for Christ (Mark 12:30). Scriptural Principles for Balance • Dual stewardship: – Spouse = sacred trust (Ephesians 5:21, 25). – Lord = supreme allegiance (Colossians 3:23-24). • Priority alignment: “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness” (Matthew 6:33). • Unified purpose: “Whatever you do in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus” (Colossians 3:17). • Dependence, not division: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart… He will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5-6). Practical Steps for Married Believers • Build shared spiritual rhythms – Pray together daily, even briefly. – Read Scripture as a couple or family (Deuteronomy 6:6-7). • Integrate ministry and marriage – Serve side-by-side where possible (Acts 18:2-3, 26—Aquila & Priscilla). – When callings differ, champion each other’s kingdom work. • Schedule intentionally – Block non-negotiable time with the Lord before filling the calendar. – Guard regular date nights; a healthy marriage frees both to serve. • Practice Sabbath margins – Rest together to reset focus on God (Exodus 20:8-10). • Communicate expectations – Discuss upcoming ministry commitments; avoid surprise conflicts. • Model mutual submission – Yield preferences when it helps spouse pursue the Lord (Philippians 2:3-4). Models of Balanced Devotion in Scripture • Aquila & Priscilla: tentmakers who discipled Apollos and hosted a house-church (Acts 18:2-3, 26; Romans 16:3-5). • Zechariah & Elizabeth: remained faithful in priestly service while longing for a child (Luke 1:5-7). • Moses & Zipporah: seasons apart for Israel’s sake, yet reunited to continue God’s mission (Exodus 18:2-6). Encouragement for Today • God never pits marriage against devotion; He weaves them together for His glory. • As couples pursue Christ first, He multiplies capacity to love each other well. • “He who calls you is faithful, and He will do it” (1 Thessalonians 5:24). |
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