praying effectively: Do Not Force Others to Love (S.of S)

(Song of Solomon 2:7, 3:5)

“I adjure you, O daughters of Jerusalem, by the gazelles or by the hinds of the field, that you do not arouse or awaken my love until she pleases.”

(Song of Solomon 8:4)

“I want you to swear, O daughters of Jerusalem, do not arouse or awaken my love until she pleases.”

Reminder:  "praying effectively" involves knowing God's will.  When we pray in His will (in His name), He may choose to not answer those prayers in the time period that we would like, or HOW we would like - but He will answer those prayers!

It is God's will: 

- that we allow love to develop naturally, and never try to force others to love (2:7, 3:5, 8:4)

- that we don't give ourselves false hope about expecting someone to fall in love with us (2:7, 3:5, 8:4)

- that even in marriage, rape is wrong (2:7, 3:5, 8:4)

Today's prayer:

Dear Lord Jesus, we are complicated beings and struggle to understand even ourselves at times, but You understand everything.  You created us, and want the very best for us.  Protect us from others.  Protect us from ourselves.  Help us keep our love pure, saving sex for marriage;  and then keep our love pure in marriage.

For our children who are still single, guard and guide their steps.  Keep them from getting desperate or anxious.  Help them to be content, as well as wise and steadfast.  Give them insight while they are dating.  And put roadblocks in their way if ever they are seeing someone who is wrong for them.

Help us to love our spouse graciously, generously and patiently.  Help us keep working on our relationship, as we keep working on our relationship with You, Lord, always putting You first in our lives.  May You always be the foundation of our marriage, our example of love, and our pillar of strength.  Amen.