Undivided Devotion to God

Text: 1 Corinthians 7:25-40 Theme: Seek a lifestyle that helps us have an undivided devotion to the Lord. Key verses: “Because of the present crisis, I think that it is good for you to remain as you are.” (v. 26) “What I mean…is that the time is short. From now on those who have wives should live as if they had none; those who mourn, as if they did not; those who are happy, as if they were not; those who buy something, as if it were not theirs to keep; those who use the things of the world, as if not engrossed in them. For this world in its present form is passing away.” (v. 29-31) “An unmarried man is concerned about the Lord’s affairs — how he can please the Lord. But a married man is concerned about the affairs of this world — how he can please his wife. (v. 32-33) “I am saying this for your own good, not to restrict you, but that you may live in a right way in undivided devotion to the Lord.” (v. 35) What God said to me: Dwayne, the main thing I want you to see in this passage are those five simple words: “Because of this present crisis.” Until you understand the world you are living in is in crisis and until you care that the world you are living in is in crisis, nothing else about this passage will have any real impact on you and your particular way of life. Paul was in no way putting down marriage. Obviously I have ordained marriage and the home. What Paul was giving was a general principle and guideline for all my children: Always take the high road in your life that will lead you to greater devotion and effectiveness for me. That is what he meant when he said those with wives should live as they had none. Do not become so engrossed in your wife that you forget your Lord. And don’t put your wife above your Lord. He also wasn’t saying don’t ever mourn, but rather, don’t allow your grief to cloud your determination to live for me. Everything about your present life will soon pass away. Get that perspective in your head and keep it in your heart. Look around to those in crisis. How in your present circumstances — with your wife, your grief, your joy, your possessions, and your opportunities — can you utilize those blessings from me to glorify me and minister to others? That is the question you must ponder and always pursue. What I said to God: Thank You, my Father and God and Healer and Provider, for speaking so clearly through Your Word today. I have never quite understood this passage before. I think I see it more clearly now, and I promise to seek to apply this “undivided bent” principle from now on. Your Word is truly a gold mine of truth and promises and counsel. May I always say like David, “Oh how I love Your law. It is my meditation day and night!”