28bBut those who marry will face many troubles in this life, and I want to spare you this.
In these days of busyness and world turmoil, Paul’s advice seems eerily timely. I recognize that I am a torn man. I have concerns not only about the ministry of godly living to which I am called, but also about the care and love I have for my wife. If I were single, I would be freer to be less tied down. If I wanted to accomplish something, I have only myself to check with to be sure my plans are not in conflict. I have just one planning calendar. When my wife is ill or injured, I am concerned about her, about what I can do to help her get through the difficulty and what I can do to get her better. I am torn. At that time I am not so concerned about the lost, the hungry, or the destitute. My focus is toward my wife. And this is in a marriage of two believers. I can only imagine trying to keep focus with a spouse who is not centered on following Jesus. There would be a constant pulling in two directions. What a struggle! That is why Paul in the early days of Christianity encouraged single life. The Romans and the Jews were persecuting and killing Christians. They were a threat to the government, being obedient first to another authority other than Rome. They were willing to die for their convictions. That was a threat to Rome itself. The suicide bombers are a threat to the whole world today. They are willing to ignore everything and kill themselves in their twisted cause. That is a powerful threat. Marriage and children changes most people, causing them to ‘settle down.’ Settling down involves small compromises and small compromises imply less devotion to Jesus. Out of obedience to Jesus I am devoted to my wife and so I am serving Him.
The Arnold Journey 