An Intimate Gift

Lord, why did you create sex?

I created human beings in my own image; male and female I created them. I blessed them and said, “Be fruitful and multiply. Fill the earth and govern it.” This explains why a man leaves his father and mother and is joined to his wife, and the two are united into one. This is a great mystery, but it is an illustration of the way Christ and the church are one.

Genesis 1:27-28; Genesis 2:24; Ephesians 5:32

Why did you establish such specific guidelines for sex?

You can’t say that your body was made for sexual immorality. It was made for me, and I care about your body. Give honor to marriage, and remain faithful to one another in marriage. Don’t you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by me? My will is for you to be holy, so stay away from all sexual sin. Live in holiness and honor—not in lustful passion.

1 Corinthians 6:13; Hebrews 13:4;

1 Corinthians 6:19; 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5

What can I pray if my sexual history is painful?

LORD, you say, “Come now, let’s settle this.” Though my sins are like scarlet, you will make them as white as snow.

Isaiah 1:18

God created sex to be the ultimate act of intimacy between a man and a woman, uniting both body and soul in the covenant of marriage. Sex outside of marriage mistreats the body, damages the soul, and hinders our capacity for true intimacy. God’s view of sexuality is far more fulfilling than the world’s. He wants sex to bring joy and blessing within a marriage relationship. Whatever your sexual history, God is able to heal, restore, and redeem you and your relationships. Read the verses above again slowly, and talk to God about what stands out to you. He can wipe away any shame, guilt, or regret you feel and make you clean and pure again in his eyes.