1 Corinthians 7:29-31 (NRSV)
Read 1 Corinthians 7:29-31 on biblegateway.com
Verse 29I mean, brothers and sisters, the appointed time has grown short; from now on, let even those who have wives be as though they had none, Verse 30and those who mourn as though they were not mourning, and those who rejoice as though they were not rejoicing, and those who buy as though they had no possessions, Verse 31and those who deal with the world as though they had no dealings with it. For the present form of this world is passing away.
Devotion
Paul seemed convinced that the end was very near. He was mistaken, of course. And his instructions as to how people should live raise some questions, particularly those regarding marriage. He was concerned that his readers be free from worldly anxieties. Admittedly, marriage has its responsibilities, but there are many who could testify that a faithful spouse is a source of counsel, comfort, and courage, not least in a time of crisis.
But we can learn much from Paul. His singleness of purpose and his commitment to the Lord are exemplary. And his conviction that the Lord could return at any time should cause us to be awake at all time and to give priority to the things of the kingdom above all other concerns in life.
Prayer
Gracious God, keep us awake and anxious only “about the affairs of the Lord.” Amen.