How can we practically "be captivated always" by our spouse, as Proverbs 5:19 suggests? Anchoring Our Hearts in God’s Design “Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.” (Genesis 2:24) God wove delight, exclusivity, and permanence into marriage. Proverbs 5 warns against wandering and then paints a beautiful alternative: “A loving doe, a graceful fawn—may her breasts satisfy you always; may you be captivated by her love forever.” (Proverbs 5:19) Captivation is not a fleeting crush; it is a lifelong, covenant-guarded focus. Guard the Covenant Against Competing Captors • Draw a firm line against pornography, flirtation, emotional affairs, or anything that stirs desire outside the marriage (Matthew 5:28). • Invite accountability—same-gender friends who will ask how you’re honoring your spouse (Proverbs 27:17). • Keep screens, schedules, and stress from stealing intimacy; set times to be fully present. Daily Practices That Fuel Lifelong Captivation • Celebrate God’s gift: “He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the Lord.” (Proverbs 18:22) Begin each day thanking God for that favor. • Speak life: “Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up.” (Ephesians 4:29) Compliments, gratitude, and tender words kindle desire. • Date persistently: Song of Songs shows married lovers still pursuing one another (Songs 2:10-14). Schedule fun, creative, tech-free outings. • Serve sacrificially: “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her.” (Ephesians 5:25) Self-giving service makes affection safe to flourish. • Share spiritual rhythms—pray together, study Scripture, worship side by side. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken (Ecclesiastes 4:12). • Protect the bedroom: “The husband should fulfill his marital duty to his wife, and likewise the wife to her husband.” (1 Corinthians 7:3) Prioritize physical intimacy; make it playful, unhurried, and mutually honoring. • Laugh often; friendship fortifies romance (Proverbs 17:22). • Practice quick forgiveness (Colossians 3:13). Bitterness numbs attraction. Renewing Captivation in Dry Seasons • Remember: feelings follow focus. Revisit courtship memories, photo albums, first-date places. • Reset routines—small changes (evening walks, phone-free meals) create new sparks. • Seek wise counsel early; humility invites healing (Proverbs 15:22). • Pray specifically for renewed desire; God delights to answer prayers aligned with His design (1 John 5:14-15). The Fruit of Persistent Captivation • Joyful intimacy that grows sweeter with years (Proverbs 5:18). • A testimony that honors Christ and invites others to trust His ways (Hebrews 13:4). • A shelter of stability for children and grandchildren (Psalm 128:3-4). Stay intentional, stay grateful, stay captivated—always. |
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