Pastor Barry's  "Chapter & Verse"  Day 37

February 6;       I Corinthians 7:9;       37/260(II);       ‘Created For Pleasure’

1 Corinthians 7:9 But if they can't control themselves, they should go ahead and marry. It's better to marry than to burn with lust.     NLT

The Bible tells us that we are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14).  The desire for sexual fulfillment was created in us by the Lord.  Not only was this desire given for the continuation of the human race, but it was also given for a husband and wife to bring pleasure to each other.  As with almost everything, for our protection, the Lord set up biblical parameters to govern this intimate part of our lives.  Our heavenly Father is not a ‘prude,’ nor is He old fashioned.  Sexual relations outside of marriage, often bring challenges into our lives that can cause great harm to us relationally, emotionally, physically and financially.  The nature of man without the Lord is pride.  “I want what I want and I do not want anyone to tell me that I cannot have what I want.”  The devil will use the legitimate desire for sexual intimacy, having its God given purpose and fulfillment in marriage, to be perverted.  The devil encourages sex outside of marriage, to open the door for sin (sin is defined as missing the mark established by the Lord), in order to often bring misery and heartache to those who do this.  Life styles contrary to the Word of God, are encouraged by a world that is alienated from and opposed to the things of God.  Immediate gratification is offered, with no thought given to children being born without a father present, children aborted, venereal disease and deep emotional scars.  None of this need occur.  The Bible was written by a God who loves us and wants only good in our lives.  Meet and fall in love with someone, marry them and then enjoy each other physically.  This is how He wrote it.