Refined: Workout Wisdom, Day Fourteen

“The husband should fulfill his marital duty to his wife, and likewise the wife to her husband. The wife does not have authority over her own body but yields it to her husband. In the same way, the husband does not have authority over his own body but yields it to his wife. Do not deprive each other except perhaps by mutual consent and for a time, so that you may devote yourselves to prayer. Then come together again so that Satan will not tempt you because of your lack of self-control.“

1 Corinthians 7:3-5

Sex is a gift given to a married couple for BOTH to enjoy. It is a way for a married couple to know each other more intimately than any other person. Realizing it is for both husband and wife means it’s not all about you. Do you withhold sex from your spouse when he/she makes you angry? Do you expect sex from your spouse without attending to his/her other emotional or physical needs? Putting our spouse first in this area is a great way to grow in our marital relationship.

What about the singles? If you are waiting for your spouse, protect the gift God has for you both. Waiting to experience sex within your marriage relationship honors God and your future spouse. You’re not missing out–you’re waiting for your promise!

What if you have already engaged in sex, either before marriage, with an ex-spouse, or as the result of abuse? Do not believe the lie that you are “ruined.” God can restore anything, including your sexuality.

Let’s Pray:

1.) Do you tend to minimize or maximize sex in your marriage? Allow God to speak to you about this today and journal any thoughts. Singles: Pray for a healthy balance in your future sex life and allow God to reveal any lies you believe about sex in marriage.

2.) Are there any past sexual sins or hurts that you brought into your marriage or that you want to prevent from bringing into a marriage? Confess these today and allow God to cover you with His grace.

3.) Thank God for your spouse or future spouse today. Ask Him to reveal qualities about him or her that HE loves. Write these down and spend some time with your spouse later tonight sharing what God said.