What do you wish for? Or long for? Is it happiness? A new car? A house in the country? Retirement? The Song of Songs records the love story of Solomon and his wife. Song 7:10 says: “I belong to my lover, and his desire is for me.” The Hebrew word for desire is that longing or a stretching out after. God’s plan for us is that we would first desire the things of God; but then to desire, to long for our spouse. This isn’t something only for the young love of our youth, but it should be a part of the marriage relationship for life! Proverbs 5 says; “may you rejoice in the wife of your youth… may her breasts satisfy you always, may you ever be captivated by her love.
Desire isn’t a passing feeling or something we have or don’t have. It is a choice we make; a choice of where we put our focus. Too many of us are focused on stuff - material things that won’t mean anything in our old age. Or perhaps it is Facebook and being “connected” with others. Or online games. More couples are coming for counseling with one (usually the husband) more focused on games and their online “friends” than their spouse. The Word of God tells us that where our focus is, our heart will be also. The online or materialistic stuff will not last like a strong healthy marriage. All of that won’t help when you suffer cancer or other serious medical condition. Facebook and online games won’t keep you company in your old age and you can’t see the screen any longer.
A healthy marriage relationship has to be cultivated, to be built up over time. It requires time and work; but most of all, it required focus. Where is your focus? Yes, you may have to work, take care of children, and maintain a home - we are all busy. You can fulfill your responsibilities and still focus on your spouse. Do you crave or want time with your spouse? Do you desire to be with him or her? Choose to long for your spouse. Think about him or her, day-dream about them, plan to have time with them. Make a call during the day, text, or send a card to let him or her know that you are thinking of them. Read the Song of Songs alone or together. Consider the longing Solomon and his wife had for each other. It’s not some fairy-tale romance, it is poetry written about their true love for each other. What will you do to express your desire for your spouse?
