39 The wife is bound by the law as long as her husband liveth; but if her husband be dead, she is at liberty to be married to whom she will; only in the Lord. 40 But she is happier if she so abide, after my judgment: and I think also that I have the Spirit of God. (1 Corinthians 7:39-40 KJV)
Rules for wives
The passage concludes with advice to widows. As long as a woman’s husband is alive, she is bound by the law to remain with him. Marriage is a lifelong covenant, and only death can dissolve that bond (1 Corinthians 7:39). But once her husband dies, she is free to marry whomever she chooses—there’s no biblical limit on how many times she may marry. This clearly shows that second marriages are not sinful. However, Paul adds an important condition: she must marry “in the Lord.”
In choosing a spouse or changing one’s marital status, believers should always seek God’s guidance. Marriages are most likely to be blessed when entered into in a spirit of reverence for God, following his commands, relying on his providence, and sincerely asking for his direction and favor.
Still, Paul says she would be happier if she remained a widow, in his judgment—and he affirms that he speaks by the Spirit of God (1 Corinthians 7:40). Especially under the difficult circumstances of that time, remaining single would bring more peace, fewer distractions, and greater freedom to serve God.
Change of marital status is a serious decision. It should be made only after careful thought, consideration of one’s situation, and with strong reason to believe it will improve—not hinder—one’s spiritual life.