How can we apply the admiration in Song of Solomon 1:16 to our spouse? Setting the Scene “ ‘How handsome you are, my beloved! Oh, how delightful! The soft green grass is our bed.’ ” (Songs 1:16) This verse overflows with sincere praise, pleasure, and shared rest—three movements we can translate straight into married life. Speak Up—Daily Words of Delight • Verbal admiration is not optional; it is commanded by the example of Scripture. • Proverbs 18:21 reminds us, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue.” Choose life-giving words. • Practical ideas: – Begin each morning with one specific compliment about your spouse’s appearance or character. – Send a midday text: “Thinking of your smile today—still my favorite.” – End the day aloud with a gratitude list, even if it is only one sentence. Celebrate Physical Beauty and God-Given Uniqueness • The bride notices her beloved’s handsomeness first. Physical affirmation is biblical, not shallow. • Tell your spouse exactly what you find attractive; be detailed. (“Your laugh lines remind me how much joy you carry.”) • Tie beauty to God’s design (Genesis 2:23-24): “You are bone of my bones,” a uniquely suited gift. Cultivate a Delightful Atmosphere • “Delightful” suggests an emotional climate, not just a comment. • Create rituals that communicate delight: – Light a favorite candle at dinner. – Reserve a weekly walk where phones stay home. – Plan surprise outings that reflect shared interests—picnics, bookstores, coffee dates. • Philippians 4:8: fill the home with whatever is true, noble, lovely. Guard the Marriage Bed—A Verdant Resting Place • “Soft green grass” paints a picture of freshness and privacy. • Protect intimacy: – Hebrews 13:4—honor the marriage bed, refuse pornography, emotional affairs, or flirty friendships. – Prioritize rest together; schedule adequate sleep and Sabbath rhythms. – Invest in comfort: a clean bedroom, fresh linens, uncluttered space. Make Admiration a Habit, Not a Holiday • Deuteronomy 6:6-7 urges continual conversation about God’s truths; apply the same persistence to spousal praise. • Set reminders if needed—calendars, phone alarms—to practice spoken admiration until it becomes spontaneous. Combat Comparison with Covenant Vision • Songs 1:16 shows no comparisons to others. Imitate that exclusivity. • Refuse media or friendships that belittle your spouse. • 2 Corinthians 10:12: “They compare themselves…they are without understanding.” Celebrate what is yours. Root Admiration in Christ’s Model of Love • Ephesians 5:25-29: Christ cherishes the church; husbands mirror that by nourishing and cherishing their wives. • 1 Peter 3:7: Wives honor husbands, recognizing them as co-heirs of grace. • When admiration flows from Christ’s covenant love, it remains steady through changing seasons—looks may change, but covenant delight deepens. Action Plan for This Week 1. Write one heartfelt, specific compliment and hand it to your spouse. 2. Prepare a “delight date” that engages one of their favorite senses (taste, sight, smell, touch, or sound). 3. Remove one source of negative comparison—unfollow, delete, or unsubscribe. 4. Pray silently for your spouse’s flourishing each day, letting that prayer fuel fresh words of admiration. Living Songs 1:16 means looking at your spouse with fresh eyes, speaking admiration aloud, and creating a home where delight—and not merely duty—thrives. |
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