How can we apply the admiration in Song of Solomon 7:1 to our marriages? The Verse in Focus “How beautiful are your feet in sandals, O prince’s daughter! The curves of your hips are like jewels, the work of the hands of a craftsman.” Why Admiration Matters in Marriage • God designed marital love to be both spiritual and physical (Genesis 2:24). • Verbal praise nourishes and cherishes a spouse, echoing Ephesians 5:28-29. • Celebrating beauty protects intimacy, steering affection toward one another rather than toward temptation (Proverbs 5:18-19). What We Learn from the Bridegroom’s Words 1. Specificity: He notices her feet, sandals, and curves—small details communicate big love. 2. Honor: “Prince’s daughter” dignifies her identity, not just her appearance. 3. Celebration of God’s craftsmanship: Her body is “the work of the hands of a craftsman,” implying divine artistry. Practical Ways to Express Admiration • Speak Up Daily – Offer genuine compliments about physical features, attire, scent, or smile. – Tie admiration to identity: “You’re my cherished wife,” “You’re my strong husband.” • Use Creative Language – Borrow Scripture’s poetic warmth rather than bland clichés. – Compare features to valued objects (“jewels”) to convey worth. • Notice the Ordinary – Praise the way your spouse walks, cooks, laughs, prays. – Celebrate effort, not just results: “Your thoughtfulness in setting the table blesses me.” • Engage All Senses – Sight: “You look radiant in that color.” – Touch: Appropriate, affectionate contact while you speak. – Scent: “I love the fragrance you chose today.” • Write It Down – Leave notes, texts, or emails that echo Song of Solomon-style admiration. – Keep a private journal of traits you treasure and share excerpts on anniversaries. Guarding Words and Hearts • Reject Comparison – Avoid praising a spouse by contrasting with someone else; focus solely on them (2 Corinthians 10:12). • Maintain Purity of Speech – Ephesians 4:29 calls for words that build up; keep admiration uplifting, not crude. • Stay Other-Focused – Admiration is a gift, not a tool for manipulation (Philippians 2:3-4). Building a Habit of Praise 1. Schedule a daily “admiration moment” (breakfast, bedtime, text at lunch). 2. Memorize key phrases from Song of Solomon and personalize them. 3. Pray for eyes to see God’s artistry in your spouse; then vocalize it. 4. Celebrate milestones with expanded praise—birthdays, anniversaries, achievements. Reflecting Christ and the Church • Christ delights in His bride, the Church (Ephesians 5:25-27). • Our marital admiration mirrors His loving gaze, preaching the gospel through everyday affection. Closing Encouragement Let Songs 7:1 remind you that specific, honored, and joyful admiration is neither optional nor outdated—it is God-breathed fuel for a thriving, covenant marriage. |
    |