I know, this may seem like a natural thing and frankly, something we have learned over time, that you cannot serve two masters. But, this is a little bit different in that the premise is that there is devotion to both, just not at the same time.
“5Do not deprive one another, except perhaps by agreement for a limited time, that you may devote yourselves to prayer; but then come together again, so that Satan may not tempt you because of your lack of self-control.” – 1 Corinthians 7:5 (ESV)
Paul has written to the Church at Corinth and is answering the men’s question as relates to sexual relations with women as it was customary for the men to be the leaders and speakers, although this relates from men and women and sexual relations with the opposite sex. In the four verses prior to the one above, Paul indicates that if there is sexual relations with the opposite sex, it should be in marriage and that there should be devotion to one another and there should not be any depriving of one another either.
Now, in the verse above, Paul makes it clear that devotion to one another is paramount to the relationship, although there should be devotion to the LORD as well. But, notice the way he declares that devotion to be handled. One or the other, not both at the same time. There is a time for devotion to the LORD, and then there is time for devotion to the spouse. There is not time for devotion to both together at the same time. This shows deviation from the serving of two masters in that one should devote to the LORD and your spouse, yet it holds true that one cannot serve two masters “at the same time”.
I love my wife Lori and devote myself to her and her well being. We have a great relationship together and frankly, she is my best friend for the last 27 years. When she calls, it is my responsibility to come to her, and she to me when I call. And yes, we value our time together and our relationship with God. Yet, in the morning, I am here with God and devoted solely to Him and Lori understands that and is pleased to have me with Him.
Lori knows, as do I, that the relationship with God is vitally important to the relationship with have with one another. Lori and my relationship with one another is made stronger through our relationship with God. Our devotion to Him allows for our devotion to one another. We have our own individual relationship with God and yet we have devoted our relationship to Him for His hand of love, comfort, and guidance.
What does your relationship with your spouse and God look like? Are you trying to be devoted to each at the same time? What if you took the time as Paul says, to devote to your spouse and only separate from them for your devotion to prayer and the LORD?
Trevor's Thoughts 