How can we apply the admiration in Song of Solomon 5:14 to our relationships? Setting the Scene “His arms are rods of gold set with topaz. His body is polished ivory decorated with sapphires.” (Songs 5:14) The bride pauses to celebrate her beloved with rich, vivid detail. Her words model a God-honoring habit: honest, joyful admiration that strengthens covenant love. Why Admiration Matters • Affirmation reflects God’s design for marriage (Genesis 2:23; Proverbs 31:28). • Words shape reality—“Death and life are in the power of the tongue” (Proverbs 18:21). • Admiration mirrors Christ’s care for His people (Ephesians 5:25-29). Translating Gold and Ivory into Daily Life 1. Celebrate Strength – “His arms are rods of gold…” – Notice and voice the gifts God has built into your spouse or friend: integrity, diligence, reliability. – Link praise to God’s purposes: “I see how God uses your discernment to bless our family.” 2. Praise Character over Appearance – Gold, topaz, ivory, sapphires are rare and enduring—point us to internal worth. – Philippians 4:8: focus on the true, noble, and praiseworthy. – Guard against shallow flattery; aim for sincere, specific commendation. 3. Speak Regularly and Publicly – The bride’s description is uttered before others (Songs 5:8). – Public honor protects the heart from comparison and fuels unity (Romans 12:10). – Practical ideas: • Share one gratitude at dinner. • Send a midday text of appreciation. • Commend your spouse in front of children or friends. 4. Build a Memory Bank – Polished ivory suggests long, careful workmanship. – Recall past victories God granted you together (1 Samuel 7:12). – Keep a shared journal of answered prayers and milestones to revisit on hard days. 5. Guard the Tone of Your Tongue – Ephesians 4:29: only words that build up. – When correction is needed, anchor it in prior, genuine admiration (Proverbs 27:6). – Aim for a 10:1 ratio of praise to critique. 6. Admire Beyond Romance – Parents to children: affirm obedience and courage (Colossians 3:21). – Friends: recognize spiritual growth (3 John 4). – Church family: encourage service and faith (1 Thessalonians 5:11). Putting It into Practice This Week • Identify one “golden” quality in your spouse or close friend and express it verbally today. • Write a short note highlighting an “ivory” memory you treasure. • Memorize Songs 5:14; let it prompt spontaneous praise whenever you recall it. The Fruit We Can Expect • Deeper trust and intimacy (Songs 1:15-16). • A household atmosphere of peace (Proverbs 15:4). • A living testimony of Christ’s love to a watching world (John 13:34-35). |
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