SCRIPTURE: Matthew 19
OBSERVATION/APPLICATION:
(Read my reflection from 2008)
The disciples said to him, “If this is the situation between a husband and wife, it is better not to marry.” [Matthew 19:10]
After Jesus teaches how serious marriage vows are, and God’s strong position against divorce, the disciples conclude that singleness is better than marriage.
They are not saying that marriage is wrong, but in this sinful world, it is really hard.
The pressures on marriage, the temptations that undermine our promises, it’s no wonder so many marriages fail.
In fact, Moses allowed for some forms of divorce because of our human weakness.
But this is not God’s original desire or will; God is still against divorce.
Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate. [Matthew 19:6]

Jesus replied, “Not everyone can accept this word, but only those to whom it has been given. For there are eunuchs who were born that way, and there are eunuchs who have been made eunuchs by others—and there are those who choose to live like eunuchs for the sake of the kingdom of heaven. The one who can accept this should accept it.” [Matthew 19:11-12]
A eunuch was a man castrated for the purpose of guarding the king’s haram.
Jesus speaks of some who are born without functioning sexual organs, some who are castrated by others, and some who choose castration (?).
It is more likely that Jesus is referring to those who choose to remain single, who give up sexual activity for the sake of the kingdom.
Jesus also points out how hard it is to resist sexual activity.
This is so for two reasons: (1) we were created as sexual beings, with sexual desires, and (2) we live in a sexually messed up world, and our own desires are twisted.

What I want to highlight is that it is hard to be faithful, whether married or single.
The pressures of sexual sin affect everyone, whether married or single.
Those who are married must strive to remain faithful and pure; those who are single must strive to remain faithful and pure.
Paul speaks about this too: Because of the present crisis, I think that it is good for a man to remain as he is. Are you pledged to a woman? Do not seek to be released. Are you free from such a commitment? Do not look for a wife. But if you do marry, you have not sinned; and if a virgin marries, she has not sinned. But those who marry will face many troubles in this life, and I want to spare you this. [1 Corinthians 7:26-28]
Marriage is not wrong, but make no mistake it is hard!
Singleness is not wrong, but make no mistake it is hard.

The key, in either case, is our focus on the kingdom; to live married or single for the sake of the kingdom of heaven.
If we seek the kingdom first, it will direct our lives, whether married or single, in a God-honouring way.

PRAYER:
Lord, help me to keep my focus on You and Your kingdom, so that I can remain faithful and pure in my marriage, honouring You and my marriage vows! And help those called to singleness to do the same!