Sex and Cherries

Laura Kovar is back, with another post from a woman's perspective, this time about sex. While most Christian blogs might not cover this topic, it is important to talk about sex from a Christian standpoint. -Sean

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I've often wondered why I've been so foolish in my past. Before coming to Christ, I was obviously taught that promiscuity wasn't only alright, but an admirable way to attract a mate.

As Christian, we see the error in that thinking. So, now that the Savior found me, I ponder upon a different line. If we know and understand that sex outside of marriage is against God, and we've been bought by Christ (1 Cor. 6:19-20), why do we so often put ourselves in compromising situations, or allow our flesh to yield to something we know leads to death (James 1:14-15)?

We know the Scriptures tell us to flee fornication (1 Cor. 6:18), but why? What harm can come out of messing around before you get married? Who will know, really? Well, for one, if you're born again, you're indwelt with the Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 3:16) and he convicts us of sin, and heightens our awareness of evil -- in fact, because of God, our bearings are finally straight, if they're pointed at Him.

This doesn't mean that we don't sin, and it certainly doesn't mean that we won't be tempted. In fact, when we fall into temptation, we should count it all joy (James 1:2) because when our faith is tried, it'll increase our patience (or endurance) during our next joust with temptation-- I call it the circle of Sanctification.

A Practical Image - Cherries Off-Season
A few days ago I was at the store and bought some fantastic cherries. They were on sale, and a huge bag cost me just a few dollars. Needless to say, I was so thrilled at the first cherries of the season that the bag didn't last long, but boy did I savor them!

Earlier in the season, the cherries didn't look so great. In fact, they didn't taste anywhere near as good as the ones bought a few days ago. To add to that sad fact, the prices reached over 16$/kg... if you do the math, you get a handful of cherries for more than just a few dollars.

Much like having sex before God's intended time for you (ie. marriage), buying cherries off-season is disappointing and leaves you asking "is that all?" It's not as satisfying, because it's not how God intended the gift to be enjoyed. However, within marriage, God says: Enjoy, it's my gift to you -- a little piece of heaven, if you will.

In the Song of Solomon, friends of the newly-wed wife are inquiring about waiting for the right man; is it really worth it, they want to know. She tells them that they should "not stir up or awaken love until it pleases" (2:7). When is the right time to awaken love? Marriage.

If you have the unfortunate disposition of having a past similar to mine, you'll understand that waiting is the right path. If you're teetering on the brink of sin (because all sexual endeavors outside of covenant marriage is sin) and the option to wait seems drear, dry, boring, or just plain long; let me assure you that it leads to emptiness. It promises fulfillment, but leaves you wanting.

So, if I can encourage you: wait on the Lord (psalm 27:14); He will rescue you. In fact, if you delight in him, seek him and his kingdom before all else, he'll give you everything you need, and the desires of your heart (Matthew 6:33; psalm 37:4).

The wait seems long... but in light of eternity, it's just as a vapor (James 4:14).