In what ways can we apply Proverbs 5:17 to modern Christian marriages? Setting the verse in its flow “Let them be yours alone, never to be shared with strangers.” (Proverbs 5:17) Here “them” refers to the refreshing “springs” and “fountains” of verses 15–16—a vivid picture of marital intimacy, meant to be kept exclusive between husband and wife. Why exclusivity matters • Genesis 2:24—“A man will leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they will become one flesh.” • Matthew 19:6—“So then, they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate.” • Hebrews 13:4—“Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept undefiled.” From Eden to the New Testament, God’s design is one man, one woman, one lifetime. Proverbs 5:17 simply reinforces the covenant by picturing it as a private well no outsider may tap. Safeguarding physical intimacy • Sexual faithfulness—no adultery, no pornography, no “casual” flirting that stirs desire outside the marriage. • Mutual ownership—1 Corinthians 7:4 reminds us that spouses yield their bodies to each other, not to anyone else. • Delighting in each other—Proverbs 5:18–19 urges us to “rejoice in the wife of your youth.” Celebrate one another’s bodies rather than comparing them to bodies online or on screen. Cultivating emotional exclusivity Modern affairs often begin long before any bedroom is involved. • Transparent communication: keep no secret friendships, inboxes, or text threads. • Workplace boundaries: share dreams, fears, and personal stories with your spouse first, not a coworker. • Social-media discipline: “like,” comment, and message in ways you would gladly show your spouse. Guarding the springs in a digital age • Shared passwords and open devices build trust. • Streaming filters and accountability software help close pornographic pipelines. • Scheduled tech-free evenings create space for unhurried conversation and affection. Nurturing the fountain together • Date nights—regular, budgeted, and protected on the calendar. • Joint service—ministering side-by-side deepens the “us” mentality. • Spiritual intimacy—prayer, Scripture reading, and worship as a couple strengthen the covenant roots (Ecclesiastes 4:12). Celebrating the covenant joyfully Song of Solomon 4:12 calls the bride “a garden locked,” treasured and secure. Far from restrictive, Proverbs 5:17 invites couples into a freedom that flourishes inside God’s protective hedge. Practical take-home list 1. Identify one boundary to tighten this week—digital, relational, or emotional. 2. Plan a deliberate time of gratitude for your spouse’s unique qualities. Speak them aloud. 3. Review entertainment choices together, removing anything that tempts comparison or lust. 4. Memorize Proverbs 5:17–18 and pray it over your marriage daily for the next month. |
    |