In I Cor. 7:20-40, Paul urges the Corinthians to stay focused on what is most important and not on the cares of this world, which could be distractions.
Let's dive into verse 20. "Let every man abide in the same calling wherein he was called." In verse 23, Paul reiterates this thought, "Brethren, let every man, wherein he is called, therein abide with God." Paul teaches us not to worry about changing the present circumstances that we find ourselves in, when God calls upon us. Instead, he urges us to concentrate on the calling itself- on God.
Paul stays on this theme throughout the rest of the verses using different situations to illustrate his point. In verses 25-29, Paul urges virgin men to remain unmarried, married men to stay married and focus on God. "But this I say, brethren, the time is short:"
In verses 30-31, "And thy that weep, as though they wept not: and they that rejoice, as though they rejoiced not: and they that buy, as though they possessed not: And they that use this world, as not abusing it: for the fashion of this world passeth away." Paul stresses that we should not get bogged down by the ups and downs of this world, stay focused.
In verses 32-40, Paul suggests again the idea of remaining unmarried. "But I would have you without carefulness. He that is unmarried careth for the things that belong to the Lord, how he may please the Lord: But he that is married careth for the things that are of the world, how he may please his wife." Now keep in mind that Paul says that this is only a suggestion not a law from God. But it is true. When you are unmarried, you can focus more on your first love God.
So treasure your time being young and single. Don't worry about who and if you are going to be married someday. Focus on what really counts. Love God freely without the extra burdens and distractions that this world is waiting to pile up on your shoulders.
Don't say, "I'll get serious about serving God or fulfilling my calling after I finish school, when I get my own place, when I get married, when I get a good job." Paul stresses the importance of serving right now, right where you are. Time is short, stay focused.
~ Mrs. Heather Cairns
