Read

Song of Solomon 1:1-8:14

Song of Solomon 8:6-7, "...Love flashes like fire, the brightest kind of flame. Many waters cannot quench love, nor can rivers drown it. If a man tried to buy love with all his wealth, his offer would be utterly scorned."

Think

We've seen the devastating aftermath of wildfires and floodwaters that have wreaked havoc across our nation. Ironically, these very elements of nature, when in control, are meant to help sustain life. It's when they go beyond their intended boundaries that they cause death and destruction.

As with fire and water, the God-given gift of sex can be devastating when it goes beyond its intended boundaries when this God-given desire goes haywire amid lust and passion. In God's great wisdom, He designed the most intimate of experiences between a man and woman to be shared within the context of marriage. However, in our culture today, the gift of sex too often goes far beyond God's protective guardrails and guidelines, leaving a trail of collateral damage such as guilt, poor self-esteem, broken relationships, and dire consequences. Conversely, that same passion within the marriage bed is an act of worship, and that's exactly what today's reading reveals!

The Song of Solomon is a beautiful depiction of the God-given gift of marital love and intimacy. Within its chapters, we read about the courtship and blossoming relationship between a man and woman. Then, with vivid word pictures, the author colorfully portrays the passion and oneness that creates healthy marriages full of vitality and growth - all part of God's masterful design!

Therefore, if you aren't married, stick to God's plan! His way is always best, blessed, and well worth the wait!

Pray

Heavenly Father, Thank You for all Your wonderful gifts. Help me to respect and honor this most precious gift of marital intimacy. I know that Your way is always best, and I seek to live within Your protective boundaries. In Jesus' name, Amen.