Session 2

Great chemistry doesn’t just happen

From Song of Solomon: A-17 Day Devotional

Over time, the word “love” has been stretched and twisted to describe things we feel strongly about, but don’t actually love.  

“I love chocolate.”  

“I LOVE that movie.”

Those aren’t bad things, but the way we feel about chocolate or a movie is not a good representation of what love is. The Bible describes love as patient and kind. Love is assuming the best, trusting others, and persevering in hard times. Love causes us to put others first and not keep a record of each other's failures (1 Corinthians 13).

Where genuine love and commitment exist, there is no fear of deceit, manipulation, or exploitation. 

Loving someone is hard work. But where genuine love and commitment exist, there is no fear of deceit, manipulation, or exploitation. Just look at Solomon and his wife.

As Solomon’s wife sings her husband’s praises, she also confesses her own fears and insecurities. She’s not unattractive, but she feels as if that’s true. Almost as if he senses her fears, Solomon rejoices in her beauty, exclaiming: “How beautiful you are, my darling! Oh, how beautiful!” (Song of Solomon 1:15).

Real love is like that. It delights in building others up and assumes the best. It doesn’t demand anything in return.

Too often, we think great chemistry just happens. But great chemistry starts with a commitment to love sacrificially. Practicing self-sacrifice each day creates security in a marriage, increases our desire for spouses, and lights beds on fire (Song of Solomon 1:16).

Reflect:

• How frequently do you say you love people or things?
• What’s one way that what you read today changes your view of what it means to love?
• What’s one way you can help your husband or wife feel more secure in your love? Not sure? Take some time this week to ask your spouse what you do or say to make him or her feel loved.