7 I wish that all the people were as I am; but each person has his own gift from God, one of this kind and one of that.

8 But I say to the unmarried and to the widows, [that as a practical matter] it is good if they remain [single and entirely devoted to the Lord][1] as I am.

9 But if they do not have [sufficient] self-control, they should marry; for it is better to marry than to burn with passion.