What does "happier if she remains as she is" imply for believers? Setting the Scene “Yet in my judgment she is happier if she remains as she is—and I too think that I have the Spirit of God.” (1 Corinthians 7:40) Paul is speaking to widows in Corinth, urging them to weigh the benefits of staying single before remarrying. Understanding “Remains as She Is” • “Remains” points to a settled state—continuing in singleness rather than pursuing another marriage. • Paul highlights singleness not as deprivation but as a viable, even joyful, condition. • His counsel is Spirit-guided (“I too have the Spirit of God”), so it carries apostolic authority, not mere opinion. Why Paul Says She Will Be “Happier” 1. Undivided devotion • “The unmarried man is concerned about the work of the Lord, how he can please the Lord.” (1 Corinthians 7:32) • Singleness removes relational responsibilities that can divide focus. 2. Freedom from worldly anxieties • Marriage brings “worldly troubles” (1 Corinthians 7:28)—pressures that may diminish peace. 3. Flexibility for ministry • A single believer can more readily answer God’s call—missions, service, hospitality—without coordinating a household. 4. Contentment in God’s provision • “Each one should remain in the situation he was in when he was called.” (1 Corinthians 7:20) • Joy springs from trusting God’s placement, not chasing a different status. Implications for Today’s Believers • Singleness is a God-honoring gift, not a second-class status. • Happiness flows from obedience, not circumstances; the same principle steadies married and single alike. • Believers should resist cultural pressure that equates fulfillment solely with marriage. • Spiritual fruitfulness hinges on devotion, which may be simpler to guard while single. Balancing Liberty and Wisdom • Paul never forbids remarriage for widows: “She is free to be married to whom she wishes, only in the Lord.” (1 Corinthians 7:39) • Yet freedom is exercised best through prayerful discernment (Proverbs 3:5-6). • The principle applies broadly: before changing life status—career, locale, relationship—ask whether the shift will enhance or hinder wholehearted service. Encouragement for Different Life Stages Widow or widower • Consider the strategic kingdom opportunities your present season affords. Engaged or dating • Evaluate motives: is marriage sought for gospel partnership or mere social expectation? Married • Support single believers; avoid implying their joy is incomplete. Youth and never-married adults • View singleness as active discipleship time, not a holding pattern. Bottom line: Paul’s phrase “happier if she remains as she is” signals that lasting joy springs from undistracted devotion to Christ. Whether God calls us to stay single or marry, real happiness comes when His will—not societal norms—shapes our choices and priorities. |
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