Sex: The Word vs. the World • Devotion 3

Let’s Talk About It
Pastor Ryan and Cathy Story

Differences in our upbringings cause so many variations in thinking, conversing, and acting. Think for a second about the past few interactions you have had with people. Whether that person is a spouse, child, friend, co-worker, neighbor, or a random encounter in public, you can likely think of differences that you have compared to that other person. The beginning of a marriage is such an interesting time, as you realize just how many differences you have with this person you have now committed yourself to! As we think about it today, there are people who find the topic of sex normal and easy to talk about. Then there are people who view the topic as one to avoid at all costs. As with most things, there are times and places where sex should be discussed.

All of Song of Solomon presents a very open conversation about romance, love, and quite descriptive physical descriptions between the bride and bride groom. It was interesting to read in a commentary by David Guzik, that for many, if they came across the early writing of Song of Solomon outside of the biblical canon, they would likely view this book as secular! However, 2 Timothy 3:16-17 reminds us, “All scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.”

From the Song of Solomon, we can see the importance of speaking openly with our spouse about our romantic life. Most of the book feels like we have walked in on a very private conversation. Too often we may want to skip over this portion of Scripture as we wonder what in the world there is for us to take away from here. It can be so much easier to jump to the New Testament and be reminded of the good works that Jesus did, or the relatable writings of Paul. The question then begs, do we approach the topic of sex this same way in our marriage? Do we want to jump over it, talk about the kids, finances, meal plans, vacations, or really anything but sex? Maybe it was something you discussed in premarital counseling, so now you are good, and have no need to discuss sex with your spouse because you have already discussed it.

Song of Solomon is such a great reminder that we still need to have these conversations with our spouse. Notice the conversation is not with the friends nearby. While the conversation is completely open between the two lovers, it does not need or involve anyone else. The conversation about sex is one the world is more than willing to have, but oftentimes within the church and in our marriages within the church, we do not want to talk about it. Taking into account any differences you and your spouse may have, consider taking time to discuss sex and intimacy with your spouse today. Maybe it is a conversation you need to start and come back to, or maybe today really is not a good day. I challenge you to make the time to talk with your spouse about your intimacy and appreciation for how God has made your spouse.