Compare Song of Solomon 1:2 with Ephesians 5:25 on love in marriage. The Tapestry of Marital Love “Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth—for your love is more delightful than wine.” “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her.” Taste and Sacrifice—Two Facets of One Jewel • Song of Solomon highlights the sensual delight and emotional pleasure found in marital love—“more delightful than wine.” • Ephesians 5 portrays love as self-giving sacrifice, patterned after Christ’s own cross-shaped devotion. • Together, they show that biblical love in marriage is both joyful affection and selfless commitment—pleasure fused with purpose. A Love That Delights • “More delightful than wine” speaks of richness, exhilaration, and joyful celebration (cf. Psalm 104:15). • Scripture does not shy away from physical display; marital affection is God-given (Proverbs 5:18-19). • Such delight underscores that marriage is not merely a duty but a feast of intimacy—emotional, physical, and spiritual. A Love That Dies to Self • “Gave Himself up for her” centers love on voluntary sacrifice (John 15:13). • Husbands are called to mirror Christ’s pattern: prioritizing the wife’s well-being over personal comfort (Colossians 3:19; 1 Peter 3:7). • Sacrificial love enriches marital delight; when self is laid down, trust and affection deepen. Integrating Delight and Sacrifice 1. Daily affection: verbal praise, tender touch, and time together keep love fragrant (Songs 1:3-4). 2. Daily dying: humble service, quick repentance, and protective leadership echo Calvary (Ephesians 5:26-28). 3. Unified purpose: both spouses flourish as each reflects Christ’s love, making the home a living parable of the gospel (Genesis 2:24). Practical Takeaways • Express affection freely—romantic words and gestures honor God’s design. • Pursue sacrificial actions—small unnoticed acts testify to Christ’s love. • Remember: delight without sacrifice becomes shallow; sacrifice without delight becomes grim. Held together, they display the fullness of covenant love. Closing Reflection The kiss of Song of Solomon and the cross of Ephesians stand side by side, revealing that God intends marriage to radiate both joy and Jesus-shaped sacrifice. Embrace both, and the marital bond becomes “more delightful than wine,” seasoned by the self-giving love that redeemed the church. |
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