What other scriptures emphasize the importance of appreciating one's spouse? Song 4:1—Declaring Delight “How beautiful you are, my darling, how very beautiful! Your eyes are like doves behind your veil; your hair is like a flock of goats streaming down Mount Gilead.” (Songs 4:1) The husband speaks out loud what he sees and feels. In one vibrant sentence he: • Notices specific features. • Affirms her beauty without hesitation. • Uses creative, poetic language to celebrate her. The verse sets the tone for a lifelong habit: verbal, joyful appreciation of one’s spouse. Old Testament Invitations to Delight • Proverbs 5:18–19 — “May your fountain be blessed, and may you rejoice in the wife of your youth—… may you be captivated by her love forever.” – Rejoicing and captivation are lifelong commands, not youthful impulses. • Ecclesiastes 9:9 — “Enjoy life with your beloved wife all the days of the fleeting life that God has given you…” – Enjoyment of marriage is portrayed as a God-given portion, not a side benefit. • Genesis 2:23–24 — Adam exclaims, “This is now bone of my bones…,” then Scripture says they become “one flesh.” – Original design: recognition, delight, union. Appreciation is built into creation. • Proverbs 31:10–11 — “A wife of noble character… is far more precious than rubies.” – Her value is stated openly; the husband’s heart safely trusts her. • Malachi 2:14–16 — The wife is called “your companion and your wife by covenant.” – Treachery toward her offends God; cherishing her safeguards the covenant. • Isaiah 62:5 — “As a bridegroom rejoices over his bride, so shall your God rejoice over you.” – God models rejoicing in a bride; marital delight mirrors divine delight. New Testament Imperatives to Cherish • Ephesians 5:25, 28–29, 33 — “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church… he nourishes and cherishes it.” – Love is sacrificial, nourishing, cherishing, and continual. • Colossians 3:19 — “Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them.” – Appreciation is expressed through gentleness and consistent love. • 1 Peter 3:7 — “Treat your wives with consideration as a delicate vessel, and with honor as fellow heirs…” – Honor and consideration keep appreciation practical and prayer life unhindered. • 1 Corinthians 7:3–5 — Mutual authority over each other’s bodies underscores respect and unselfish care. • Hebrews 13:4 — “Marriage must be honored by all…” – Honor includes public esteem and private faithfulness. Putting Appreciation into Practice • Speak specific praise regularly—follow the model of Songs 4:1. • Celebrate your spouse’s God-given qualities in front of others. • Invest time and thought into enjoying life together (Ecclesiastes 9:9). • Protect marriage from harsh words or neglect (Colossians 3:19; 1 Peter 3:7). • Let physical affection remain joyful and exclusive (Proverbs 5:18–19). • Remember the covenant nature of marriage (Malachi 2:14); faithfulness is an act of appreciation. A Final Encouragement Every passage above flows from the Creator’s own heart of delight. As we openly value the husband or wife God has given, we echo His design, reflect His joy, and strengthen the covenant we vowed to honor. |
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