Saturday, 19 July 2014
And a woman who has a husband who does not believe, if he is willing to live with her, let her not divorce him. 1 Corinthians 7:13
This verse is the flip side of what Paul said in verse 12 – “If any brother has a wife who does not believe, and she is willing to live with him, let him not divorce her.” By saying this, he is confirming that there is no excuse by either spouse, if a believer, for leaving the marriage relationship. They are bound to their oath regardless if it was made before conversion or not, and even if the other spouse fails to call on Christ.
The reason for his words are coming in the next verse and they show us the immense importance of remaining married, even to an unbeliever.
Life application: We are expected to remain committed to our spouse. We are not granted “wiggle room” in this.
Lord God, help each of us to be obedient to Your word and to cling to what is right, even if it means our unhappiness for a while. In the end, obedience to You in a state of difficulty or sadness is surely preferable to disobedience accompanied by temporary happiness. Help us to think this through O God. Surely Your word is always given for our ultimate good and for a closer walk with You. Amen.