The unmarried man is anxious about the affairs of the Lord, how to please the Lord; but the married man is anxious about the affairs of the world, how to please his wife, and his interests are divided. And the unmarried woman and the virgin are anxious about the affairs of the Lord, so that they may be holy in body and spirit; but the married woman is anxious about the affairs of the world, how to please her husband.
1 Corinthians 7:32-34 

Celibacy is a highly treasured virtue valued in Christianity through the ages. Some negative events have recently challenged the whole concept, understanding and importance of celibacy, especially among Church ministers and Christians in general. Even so, celibacy is truly a gift from God and a proper understanding of this great gift is relevant today. 

St Paul offers us a rich insight into this subject in these verses. For Paul, celibacy is one of the best ways/states to serve the Lord. Jesus, in the gospel of Matthew, describes it as a gift from God to some individuals. He had just finished instructing his audience on the importance and indissolubility of marriage, when some of his disciples remarked that it may then be best not to marry. Jesus in answer said: ‘Not everyone can accept this teaching, but only those to whom it is given’. Matthew 19:11.  Soon after, he extolled celibacy and even recommended it for his disciples when he said: ‘For there are eunuchs, who have been made so by birth, and there are eunuchs who have been made eunuchs by others, and there are eunuchs who have made themselves eunuchs for the sake of the kingdom of heaven’. Matthew 19:12 

For Paul, as for Jesus, a life of celibacy is not an option to escape from marital relationship and responsibilities, instead its ultimate purpose is for the kingdom of heaven. Paul, being celibate, recommended it to other believers, yet he acknowledged that it is a gift not given to all. ‘I wish everyone could get along without marrying, just as I do. But we are not all the same. God gives some the gift of marriage; to others he gives the gift of singleness. Now I say to those who are not married and to widows, it is better to stay unmarried, just as I am.’ 1 Corinthians 7:7-8. The reason for his preference for celibacy, he explains in the verses under review 1 Corinthians 7:32-34. Thus celibacy frees the celibate person and places a higher responsibility on that person - to give unhindered service and attention to the Lord. V. 35. On the other hand, when celibacy becomes a burden and a cause of great pain, it is better to marry than to burn with lust and passion. 1 Corinthians 7:9.

 Prayer

Lord, make me chaste in my celibate state and, above all, make me a faithful disciple, putting you first in all I do and say. May I have control over my emotions and desires. Help me by your grace to imitate you and to love and serve you all my life. Amen.