Monday 12 August, 2013

25 Now I want to say something about virgins. I have no direct command from the Lord. But I give my opinion. Because of the Lord’s mercy, I give it as one who can be trusted. 26 Times are hard for you right now. So I think it’s good for you to stay as you are. 27 Are you married? Then don’t get a divorce. Are you single? Then don’t look for a wife. 28 But if you get married, you have not sinned. And if a virgin gets married, she has not sinned. But those who get married will have many troubles in this life. I want to save you from that. 29 Brothers and sisters, what I mean is that the time is short. From now on, those who have a husband or wife should live as if they did not. 30 Those who are sad should live as if they were not. Those who are happy should live as if they were not. Those who buy something should live as if it were not theirs to keep. 31 Those who use the things of the world should not become all wrapped up in them. The world as it now exists is passing away.

Paul gives a good dose of reality to the Corinthians. We all need it from time to time – I, as much as anyone.

Should I take this job? Should I buy this car? Should I buy this house? Should I (in the case of the young women in the Corinthian Church) get married? These are all valid questions that require careful thought but Paul is saying don’t be too absorbed in the things of this world that will soon pass away. “Time is very short”.

The question is how am I spending my time? What is the daily priority of my life? Am I investing in eternity or am I simply playing with the toys of life?

Written by Boudy van Noppen