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THE STORY OF JESUS: Matthew 19:10-12
“Those who choose to live like eunuchs for the sake of the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 19:12)
The word ‘eunuch’ literally means ‘to have the bed to yourself’.
It was primarily used for those who were castrated (for different reasons).
But it also came to mean singleness, to be unmarried.
I know people who really struggle with their singleness… and a few who embrace it.
Personal desire, as well as pressure from family, friends, and society in general, can make it hard.
I really can’t speak to this issue, since I do so from within a marriage relationship.
But I do know that marriage is idealized beyond reality – marriage is both blessing and challenge.
Jesus speaks of some who choose singleness “for the sake of the kingdom”.
Is it that they choose singleness, or that they choose to focus on the kingdom.
They devote themselves to bringing joy, hope, help, blessing to others – for Jesus’ sake.
In a sense, we ALL should surrender our present lives – single or married – to the Lord.
Seek first the kingdom, and allow the Lord to work out His purpose for your life.
What am I choosing “for the sake of the kingdom”?
What sacrifices am I making because my heart is set first on the kingdom.
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, some choose lower pay, some choose life in a foreign country, some choose singleness, some choose volunteering in the community, etc… for the sake of the kingdom. What am I choosing for You?