1 Corinthians 7:6-7
Now as a concession, not a command, I say this. I wish that all were as I myself am. But each has his own gift from God, one of one kind and one of another.
To the best of our knowledge, Paul was single and always single (see v. 8). I know of no evidence that he ever married. He devoted his life to serving God. Being single has its own challenges. A single person has the same hormones and desires as a married person. Such a person has the need to be in relationships with people. When a single cannot fulfill these desires and needs within marriage, there can be a genuine struggle that can influence a person’s spiritual walk. Paul says here that God gives a special “spiritual gift” (same word used in ch. 12) for those who are single. God gives strength to walk this journey. Being single also brings benefits, some of which Paul will talk about later in this chapter, such as being able to devote more time to working for the Lord. Paul is speaking from personal experience here and offering some of his own wisdom forged from life experiences. The important thing is to find contentment in where we are in life. Seek first God’s kingdom (Matthew 6:33). All the questions and difficulties we have will find new meaning when we put God first and seek His purposes for us.
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