Dear Ones,
Happy Valentine’s Day to you! Each of us, whether single or married, is unconditionally loved by our Heavenly Father and we are treasured and valued. Al and I will be celebrating in our apartment and going out to dinner one fine day when we both feel 100% !!!!
Devotions from Judy’s heart
Marriage seems to be on decline these days and many choose not to marry or wait until they are much older before making a commitment. In 1970, 83% of men were married by the time they were 30 but the figure for Millennials born in1980 is only 25%. I must admit I am a cheerleader for traditional marriage and for faithful relationships which seems to in the minority today. I am reading Oldfield’s book, Fully Alive and she explores various viewpoints but comes back to waiting until marriage for sexual intimacy and to be committed to one person for life. She calls sex without commitment lust as it tends to leave many wounded, for there is not an awareness of our partner’s personhood.

Even on college campuses, students are saying sex is too available and most often removed from commitment; it especially leaves women more vulnerable. But those who desire to be committed for life and loved by one person should not feel shameful for if we are followers of Christ, we are to follow His moral laws. Sex is wonderful and a powerful gift, but we are not to use others as objects like a sex toy but treat them as sacred.

When we commit to someone else, we are promising to care and support each other and be faithful. We are to protect and encourage and cheer for one another. Like Oldfield said, “Sex can be a source of blessing and, one of the deepest and most beautiful forms of human connection.” She goes on to say that it can also cause harm and disconnect us from ourselves and others if we go against the grain of our souls. Sex is not just sex, but commitment, sharing deeply, awareness of the other. Let us value marriage and not treat others like sex toys but with value and dignity. Jesus’ way is always best!

Challenge for today:  whether you are single or married, follow God’s design for sex and marriage.
Blessings on this Valentine’s Day and prayers and love, Judy