What practical steps can couples take to embody the love in Song 1:13? Verse in focus Song of Songs 1:13: “My beloved to me is a sachet of myrrh resting between my breasts.” Capturing the image Ancient brides wore a small pouch of myrrh on a cord inside their clothing so its fragrance would warm and release all day. The picture is of continual, cherished nearness—an aroma that lingers right over the heart. Below are simple, concrete ways husbands and wives can mirror that closeness and sweetness in daily life. Fragrance of constant presence • Begin and end each day with a warm embrace and a kiss—physical reminders that your spouse is “between your breasts,” held close. • Send brief, affectionate messages during the workday. A sentence like “Thinking of you—can’t wait to be home” renews the scent of love. • Wear or keep something that reminds you of your spouse (a photo in the wallet, a favorite shirt carrying their perfume/aftershave) as a modern ‘sachet.’ (See Philippians 1:7: “You hold me in your heart,” a model of continual remembrance.) Cultivating tender intimacy • Schedule unrushed time for physical closeness. Intimacy should not be an after-thought squeezed in between chores; plan evenings that allow touch, laughter, and conversation to bloom. • Keep the bedroom inviting—clean linens, gentle lighting, perhaps a pleasant fragrance or essential oil that both enjoy. Small acts honor the gift of marital passion (Hebrews 13:4). • Affirm each other’s bodies verbally (Songs 4:1-7). Sincere compliments rebuild godly confidence and kindle desire. Guarding exclusivity • Reserve private communication channels for one another; no secrets, no flirtations elsewhere (Proverbs 5:15-18). • Protect screens and schedules so the first and last face you see daily is your spouse’s. • Pray individually for your spouse’s purity and loyalty, asking the Lord to keep your hearts bound together (1 Thessalonians 3:12-13). Creating environments of delight • Cook a favorite meal together. The shared aroma in the kitchen mirrors the myrrh’s fragrance. • Take regular walks hand-in-hand; fresh air and movement open space to talk and enjoy God’s creation side by side. • Celebrate small milestones—notes on the mirror, a surprise coffee delivery, an unexpected song texted during lunch. Words and gestures of savoring • Use endearing names—“my beloved,” “my dove”—echoing Song of Songs language (Songs 2:14). • Practice active listening: eyes up, phone down, heart engaged. Your attention says, “You are the treasure I keep nearest.” • Offer gentle, unhurried touch: a shoulder rub while talking, holding hands while praying. Sacrificial aroma Myrrh is harvested through wounded bark; it pictures love that costs something (Ephesians 5:1-2, 25). • Do an undesired chore for your spouse without being asked. • Sacrifice personal preferences to honor theirs—movie choice, weekend plan, restaurant. • Speak forgiveness quickly; let grace, not grievance, scent the air (Colossians 3:13-14). Daily rhythm checklist 1. Morning hug, blessing, or brief Scripture read together (e.g., Psalm 143:8). 2. Mid-day text or call: “I love you. How can I pray for you right now?” 3. Evening screen-free conversation (15 minutes minimum). 4. Physical closeness—hold, kiss, or simply rest side by side before sleep. 5. Thank God silently for your spouse as you drift off, sealing the day with gratitude. Living the verse When spouses keep each other close, fragrant, and cherished—spiritually, emotionally, and physically—they embody Songs 1:13. The continual aroma of love not only blesses the marriage but also bears witness to Christ, whose self-giving love is the sweetest fragrance of all (2 Corinthians 2:14-15). |
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