To the Unmarried and Widows

²⁵ Now concerning virgins: ^(A)I have no commandment from the Lord; yet I give judgment as one ^(B)whom the Lord in His mercy has made ^(C)trustworthy.

⁶ But I say this as a concession, ^(A)not as a commandment.

² Moreover it is required in stewards that one be found faithful.

⁴⁰ But she is happier if she remains as she is, ^(A)according to my judgment—and ^(B)I think I also have the Spirit of God.

Christ Our Pattern

^8 (A)I speak not by commandment, but I am testing the sincerity of your love by the diligence of others. ⁹ For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, ^(B)that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that you through His poverty might become ^(C)rich.

¹⁰ And in this ^(D)I give advice: ^(E)It is to your advantage not only to be doing what you began and ^(F)were desiring to do a year ago;