Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – July 11, 2015
May your fountain be blessed, and may you rejoice in the wife of your youth. A loving doe, a graceful deer—may her breasts satisfy you always, may you ever be captivated by her love. Proverbs 5:18–19
A midlife crisis means you are most likely discontent. You may be discontented with your wife, your work, and your car. However, the Bible is very clear about being content with what or with whom God has blessed you, especially your spouse. His desire is for you to want what you have and not obsess over what you do not have. Remember the bride of your youth. Celebrate her coming-out party.
Perhaps you married her because she was cute and cuddly, she cared about you, and she loved Christ. Those are compelling characteristics that hopefully have grown over the years. Be joyful in Jesus and grateful to God that He has given you a woman who walks with Him and wants to be with you. Rejoice in the wife of your youth as she keeps you young and yearning for Yahweh.
“I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances” (Philippians 4:11).
Moreover, be captivated by the love of your wife. Her capacity and willingness to love you will grow as you consistently and unconditionally love her. What wife will not embrace her husband who serves her like his Savior Jesus serves? Love and respect create love and respect. It is a Christ-like cycle. Be captivated by the love of your wife, knowing she was given to you by God. You chose her; so be pleased with your choice. In His providence He pronounced you husband and wife.
Lastly, a wife captivates her husband with her kind character and attractive looks. You wooed the husband of your youth by your sweet spirit, your delightful smell, and your inviting beauty. Be very intentional to make your love interesting to your husband who may be easily bored in the bedroom. Let the distractions of life and the activities of raising children rank second to your captivating love for each other. The will of God is to stay faithful as husband and wife. This is the true goal for marriages that stay together.
“And as the bridegroom rejoices over the bride, So your God will rejoice over you” (Isaiah 62:5 nasb).
Prayer: How can I love my wife in a way that brings to life her captivating love?
Related Readings: Song of Songs 4:5; Ecclesiastes 9:9; 1 Corinthians 7:2; Ephesians 5:28
Post/Tweet this today: God’s will: desire what you have and don’t obsess over what you do not have. #midlifecrisis #wisdomhunters
Taken from Two Minutes in the Bible Through Proverbs: You’ll soon be enjoying the benefits of a storehouse of wisdom in your heart. Pre-order Boyd’s newest devotional book coming August 1st! (Learn more about our friends at Harvest House Publishers)
Additional Resource: 4 minute music video- Switchfoot: Love Alone is Worth the Fight
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