Definition: And unto the married I command, [yet] not I, but the Lord, Let not the wife depart from [her] husband:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Corinthians 7:10. It's a really important message about relationships and how to handle marriage. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is essentially saying: “Don't go outside of your husband; let him be your guide.” It’s a warning against straying from a committed relationship. Let’s unpack the parts: "And unto the married I command..." – This acknowledges that this rule applies to people who are already in a marriage. "[Yet] not I, but the Lord..." - This is the crucial part. It's not about you making a decision on your own. The Lord (God) is the ultimate authority here. You’re following His guidance. "Let not the wife depart from [her] husband:" – This is the core of the message. It means that a woman shouldn't leave her husband, or go outside of the boundaries of their marriage relationship. What does this mean practically? It’s about commitment and loyalty: The verse stresses that a marriage is a sacred bond. Staying within those bounds is essential for maintaining the integrity of that relationship. It’s about obedience to God's will: It highlights that we should follow God’s principles and guidance in our relationships, rather than relying on our own desires or feelings. It’s a reminder of boundaries: The verse underscores the importance of respecting boundaries within a marriage – a husband and wife have specific roles and responsibilities to each other. Why is this important? Paul was writing to Christians who were experiencing difficulties in their relationships. This verse offers a gentle but firm reminder that a healthy relationship should be built on trust, respect, and commitment – all guided by God's will. In short, the verse encourages faithfulness and loyalty within marriage. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give you an example of how it might apply to a situation?