How can you apply Song of Solomon 1:15 in your marriage today? The Verse in Focus “How beautiful you are, my darling! Oh, how very beautiful! Your eyes are like doves.” — Songs 1:15 Receiving the Word Personally • In a marriage, this verse invites you to pause and truly notice your spouse’s God-given beauty—inside and out. • The imagery of dove-like eyes suggests purity, gentleness, and peace; qualities a husband and wife can actively affirm in each other. Seeing With Delight • Choose daily moments to look at your spouse—without screens or distractions—and let appreciation rise. • Make eye contact during conversations and meals; this simple practice communicates, “I treasure you.” • Remember Genesis 2:23-24: Adam’s first recorded words delighted in Eve; delight is still a holy response today. Speaking Life-Giving Words • Compliments aren’t flattery; they are truth-filled acknowledgments of God’s workmanship in your spouse (Psalm 139:14). • Practical ideas: – Begin the day with one specific affirmation. – Text an encouraging note at lunchtime. – End the evening by recounting something admirable you noticed. • Proverbs 16:24: “Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.” Let your speech be that honeycomb. Cultivating Intentional Attention • Set aside “no-agenda” time each week—walks, coffee on the porch, or a quiet drive—to foster relaxed conversation. • Protect these times on the calendar as faithfully as you protect church attendance (Ephesians 5:15-16). • Turn ordinary tasks into shared moments—folding laundry together or cooking side by side—looking for opportunities to affirm. Honoring Each Other’s Individual Beauty • Avoid comparisons; celebrate the unique way God crafted your spouse (1 Corinthians 12:18). • Make note of character traits—patience, creativity, diligence—and verbalize them. • Foster an atmosphere where both of you feel safe to shine: choose gratitude over criticism, gentleness over sarcasm (Colossians 3:19). Reflecting Christ’s Love • A husband’s tender admiration echoes Christ’s loving gaze on His bride, the Church (Ephesians 5:25-27). • A wife’s receptive joy mirrors the Church’s response to Christ (Revelation 19:7). • Together, aim for a marriage marked by mutual delight that points observers to the gospel. Putting It Into Practice This Week • Write one sentence of appreciation and place it where your spouse will find it. • Spend five uninterrupted minutes looking into each other’s eyes while sharing what you value in the other. • Pray individually for God to open your eyes to fresh aspects of your spouse’s beauty, then express what He shows you. As you live out Songs 1:15, you cultivate a marriage that radiates the gracious, attentive love God pours over both of you. |
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