Read 1 Corinthians 7:7
Discover
1. What leads Paul to write the words, “I wish everyone were single”? (See 1 Corinthians 7:3-6.)
2. What concession does Paul make in his statement in verse 7?
3. Where does each person’s gift come from?
Respond
Singleness is a gift. Marriage is a gift. If you’re in one of these seasons but haven’t found it to be much of a “gift,” you might cringe when you hear those words.
The apostle Paul states he wishes everyone were single, but he acknowledges that everyone has a unique gift from God. The meaning in this case is thought to refer to the gift of the specific season or relationship status we’re in. God has placed each of us in the situation we’re in so we can live out His purpose here on earth.
Do you view your current relationship status as a gift? Take a few minutes to make a list of everything you appreciate about your specific season of singleness or marriage. Thank God for what comes to mind. Then sometime this week, share at least one thing you wrote with a friend or your significant other.
Want to go deeper? Read Psalm 145 and personalize it into your own prayer of gratitude, knowing that the God you’re praising is faithful no matter what your relationships look like on earth.