What does Proverbs 5:19 teach about the importance of marital faithfulness? The Verse in Focus “A loving doe, a graceful fawn—let her breasts satisfy you always; may you be captivated by her love forever.” (Proverbs 5:19) Setting and Context • Proverbs 5 is Solomon’s father‐to‐son warning against adultery. • Verses 15-20 contrast covenant intimacy with the destructive lure of the adulteress (vv. 3-14). • Verse 19 sits at the heart of that contrast, celebrating God-given pleasure inside marriage. Key Phrases to Notice • “Loving doe, graceful fawn” – tender, exclusive affection; the wife is uniquely delightful. • “Satisfy you always” – ongoing physical and emotional fulfillment within the covenant. • “Captivated…forever” – a call to perpetual fascination, not temporary infatuation. What the Verse Teaches About Marital Faithfulness • Marriage is designed for lifelong, wholehearted delight in one spouse. • Faithfulness is not mere avoidance of adultery; it is active, joyful devotion. • Sexual intimacy is God’s good gift to protect and strengthen the covenant bond. • Continual satisfaction in one another guards the heart against wandering desires. • The permanence (“forever”) mirrors God’s unchanging covenant love with His people. Supporting Scriptures • Genesis 2:24 – “A man shall leave his father and mother and be united to his wife.” • Matthew 19:5-6 – Jesus reinforces the Genesis mandate and adds, “What God has joined together, let no man separate.” • 1 Corinthians 7:3-5 – Spouses are to meet each other’s needs so Satan will not tempt them. • Hebrews 13:4 – “Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept undefiled.” • Malachi 2:15-16 – God seeks godly offspring and hates divorce, spotlighting covenant loyalty. Why Marital Faithfulness Matters • Protects personal holiness and family stability. • Reflects Christ’s faithful love for His Church (Ephesians 5:25-32). • Provides a living testimony to a world confused about love and commitment. • Invites God’s blessing and shields from the painful consequences of sexual sin (Proverbs 5:7-14, 22-23). Practical Takeaways • Cultivate daily affection—kind words, gentle touch, intentional time. • Guard the mind: avoid media and situations that stir lust outside marriage. • Celebrate your spouse’s qualities; gratitude fuels ongoing captivation. • Seek accountability and counsel early when temptations arise. • Remember the covenant you vowed before God and witnesses; He empowers what He commands. |
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