In what ways can we cultivate purity and admiration in our relationships today? A Picture of Purity in Songs 6:6 “Your teeth are like a flock of ewes coming up from the washing; each one has its twin, and not one among them is lost.” Purity Illustrated by a Washed Flock • Fresh from the washing – spotless, unstained, newly cleansed • Each one has its twin – orderly, rightly paired, nothing mismatched • None missing – completeness, faithfulness, no compromise The verse paints a portrait of purity, wholeness, and intentional admiration. The groom notices the smallest details of his bride’s cleanliness and order, celebrating them without lust or objectification. Admiration That Builds Up • See the person, not merely the body (Songs 4:7; 1 Peter 3:3-4) • Speak words that affirm dignity (Proverbs 25:11) • Celebrate virtue before appearance (Proverbs 31:30) Practices That Nurture Purity Today • Daily “washing of water with the word” (Ephesians 5:25-27) • Honest accountability with mature believers (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10) • Courting habits that honor God: public settings, clear boundaries, purposeful timelines • Media choices that protect the eyes and mind (Psalm 101:3) • Regular fasts from technology to heighten face-to-face admiration Guardrails for Mind and Heart • Guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life (Proverbs 4:23) • Flee sexual immorality; glorify God in your body (1 Corinthians 6:18-20) • Take every thought captive to obey Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5) • Whatever is pure…dwell on these things (Philippians 4:8) Admiration Anchored in Christ • Imitate Christ’s self-giving love (John 13:34; Ephesians 5:2) • Pursue relationships that mirror His covenant faithfulness (Hosea 2:19-20) • Let mutual submission and respect govern every interaction (Ephesians 5:21) Key Companion Verses • 1 Thessalonians 4:3-4 — “this is the will of God: your sanctification” • 1 Timothy 4:12 — “set an example in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity” • Hebrews 13:4 — “marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept undefiled” • Psalm 119:9 — “how can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to Your word” Takeaway Purity and admiration blossom when we let the Word wash us daily, set wise boundaries, and treasure the God-given dignity of one another. Songs 6:6 reminds us that cleansed, orderly, wholehearted devotion is not only possible but beautiful—and worth celebrating in every relationship God entrusts to us. |