ISB ~ 1 Corinthians 7 v26

impending distress:Or, “the present necessity”. It is uncertain whether Paul has something general or specific in mind. (1) If general, Paul recommends celibacy because of the perennial troubles that face married couples. The ordinary pressures of daily life can make an undistracted commitment to Christ a constant struggle. (2) If specific, Paul endorses the single life in light of the hostile and pagan environment of Corinth. He knows that persecutions will multiply hardships for married couples who are concerned for the welfare of each other and their children.