Draw Near – 365 Guides to Greater Intimacy with GodSample

SEXUAL UNDERSTANDING Generally, a man views sex as an act while a woman sees it as an attitude. The two different views can either create tension or exercise our capacity for loving understanding. This is why Peter insists: Husbands, likewise, dwell with them with understanding (1 Peter 3:7). Husbands and wives must understand each other to enhance their physical relationship. God's Word is clear and concise when it comes to sexual responsibility: Let the husband render to his wife the affection due her, and likewise also the wife to her husband... Do not deprive one another except with consent for a time, that you may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again so that Satan does not tempt you because of your lack of self-control (1 Corinthians 7:3, 5). We were created with sexual drives and needs. It is a foolish husband or wife who uses this intimate part of marriage as a reward or weapon. The Bible teaches us: The wife does not have authority over her own body, but the husband does. And likewise the husband does not have authority over his own body, but the wife does (1 Corinthians 7:4). As we obey God's Word, a deeper appreciation and expression come in the intimacy of marriage. Sex then becomes a celebration of love, not merely relief of physical tension.