As someone living in Florida, I have no concept of cold, snowy, winters. Every once in a while we get a "freeze" here of 32 degrees, where we wake up to find our car windshields frozen with ice, and some frosted windows in the early mornings, which all soon melt away with daylight. Winters however do have its special joys for which we can thank God for. Firstly, it brings relief from the oppressive heat of summer. Summers down here are no fun for the uninitiated. The heat and humidity can be quite unbearable for folks who are not used to high humdity, and yes, air conditioning is therefore a must. Without air conditioning, life here would be quite intolerable. I have heard it said that Florida owes its development to the advent of air conditioning, for without it, no one would ever think of relocating here. I tend to believe that!
Another blessing of winter are the plants that bloom only at this time of year. I especially look forward to the poinsettia plants. These are actually leafy plants, with red leaf-life flowers (I am not sure if it is a real flower or just leaves that have changed color). We also have pine trees here, and one of my favorite activities is to collect pine cones, and use them as decorations for the home. The next joy we have are all the imported evergreen trees (from out of state) that we purchase as Christmas trees. I just love the scent of a real tree. It gives the home such a nice smell. I do decorate the tree, but very sparsely with ornaments, as I do no want to hide the beauty of the tree itself with too many ornaments.
Special foods are another treat of winter. Because the cold months discourage food production/planting, much of the traditional foods of winter are preserved food! Here in South Florida we eat rum cake and dried fruit, and drink apple cider. Other preserved foods such as sorrel drink is a traditional Caribbean drink here. Hot drinks are also very popular, as it is everywhere in the country. Hot coffee and hot chocolate are the most favorite, but our coffee may come from a variety of places such as Brazil, Colombia, or Jamaica.
All this eating however can easily cause one to overeat, which reminds me that winter here is a good time to exercise. The freshness and coolness of the air makes it really enjoyable to exercise outdoors. It is a time to get out the house, and explore the landscape, and enjoy the wonderful world God has created.
Monday, December 28, 2009
Sunday, December 27, 2009
The Twelve Days of Christmas
Many of us are familiar with this traditional Christmas song, yet many of us are unaware of its significance to the church. In his essay, Dennis Bratcher explains the tradition of the twelve days of Christmas as it relates to the church. In the Western church, the twelve days of Christmas begins on Christmas day (December 25), and ends on January 5, the day before Epiphany (January 6). In some cultures, the twelve days are counted from December 26 and ends on January 6 to include Epiphany. Regardless of how the twelve days are counted, the fact remains that Christmas was celebrated as a season, and not just one day.
As a Spiritual teacher within the Christian faith, I have great admiration for traditions that honor our Lord - Jesus Christ; however, since my spiritual beliefs tend to be more nature-based than church-dictated, I prefer to start counting the twelve days of Christmas from December 21 (the winter solstice) and end it on January 1 (New Years day). The reason why I start on December 21 and not on December 25 is because I want to honor the God of winter - Jesus Christ- for bringing an end to the lengthening nights, and for the gradually increasing daylight throughout the winter months. I end the celebration on January 1, to give thanks for the new year which has started.
Biblically speaking, the new year really does not start on January 1, as January 1st , as the start of the new year, is a construct of the Roman/Gregorian calendar. The natural new year of nature, starts in the spring, which is the time when the earth is renewed and revived from the sleep and death of winter. The astronomical event - the vernal equinox- marks the beginning of Spring, and the start of the natural year and the religious calendar of the Bible. In the fall, another new year is celebrated and recognized by the Bible as well. The new year celebrations of the fall season, which was known as the Feast of Trumpets in the Bible, but is now called Rosh Hashanah by modern-day Jews, marks the beginning of the Biblical civil new year, and occurs around the time of the atumunal equinox, and the sighting of the new moon. I however also celebrate January 1 as the new year because we are following the Gregorian calendar, which is what we are using to count time in our secular world. Alas! I now have three calendars to keep abreast with - the Hebrew civil calendar, the Hebrew religious calendar/natural year calendar, and the Roman/Gregorian calendar! How do I keep it all together? It is not as hard as some may believe. The Hebrew religious calendar follows the natural cycle of the seasons of the year. It is based upon the natural cycles of the sun and moon in the counting of days, months, and years. The Hebrew civil calendar starts on the seventh month of the religious/natural calendar, and coincides with the religious celebration called the Feast of Trumpets in the Bible, or Rosh Hashanah by modern Jews. After that day, I am no more concerned about the Hebrew civil calendar until the next Feast of Trumpets/Rosh Hashannah, when the Biblical civil year starts all over again. The reason I am not concerned about the Hebrew civil calendar for the rest of the year is because it is not used for any civil purposes within our society. It was used by the Jews back then to mark time, but even for the Jews, the religious holy days and feast days were based upon the natural year/religious calendar. For my daily secular activities, I follow the Gregorian calendar, because that is what our society uses, and if I want to keep abreast of what is going on in our world, then I would be in peril to ignore it.
So, enjoy the twelve days of Christmas, any way you choose to celebrate them, as long as God is honored. Let there be peace on earth and goodwill to all men. Let us not just limit Christmas to a day, or even to a season, but let the hope, peace, and love of Christmas spread out throughout the coming year.
Happy Kwanza! Happy holidays! Merry Christmas! Happy New year!
As a Spiritual teacher within the Christian faith, I have great admiration for traditions that honor our Lord - Jesus Christ; however, since my spiritual beliefs tend to be more nature-based than church-dictated, I prefer to start counting the twelve days of Christmas from December 21 (the winter solstice) and end it on January 1 (New Years day). The reason why I start on December 21 and not on December 25 is because I want to honor the God of winter - Jesus Christ- for bringing an end to the lengthening nights, and for the gradually increasing daylight throughout the winter months. I end the celebration on January 1, to give thanks for the new year which has started.
Biblically speaking, the new year really does not start on January 1, as January 1st , as the start of the new year, is a construct of the Roman/Gregorian calendar. The natural new year of nature, starts in the spring, which is the time when the earth is renewed and revived from the sleep and death of winter. The astronomical event - the vernal equinox- marks the beginning of Spring, and the start of the natural year and the religious calendar of the Bible. In the fall, another new year is celebrated and recognized by the Bible as well. The new year celebrations of the fall season, which was known as the Feast of Trumpets in the Bible, but is now called Rosh Hashanah by modern-day Jews, marks the beginning of the Biblical civil new year, and occurs around the time of the atumunal equinox, and the sighting of the new moon. I however also celebrate January 1 as the new year because we are following the Gregorian calendar, which is what we are using to count time in our secular world. Alas! I now have three calendars to keep abreast with - the Hebrew civil calendar, the Hebrew religious calendar/natural year calendar, and the Roman/Gregorian calendar! How do I keep it all together? It is not as hard as some may believe. The Hebrew religious calendar follows the natural cycle of the seasons of the year. It is based upon the natural cycles of the sun and moon in the counting of days, months, and years. The Hebrew civil calendar starts on the seventh month of the religious/natural calendar, and coincides with the religious celebration called the Feast of Trumpets in the Bible, or Rosh Hashanah by modern Jews. After that day, I am no more concerned about the Hebrew civil calendar until the next Feast of Trumpets/Rosh Hashannah, when the Biblical civil year starts all over again. The reason I am not concerned about the Hebrew civil calendar for the rest of the year is because it is not used for any civil purposes within our society. It was used by the Jews back then to mark time, but even for the Jews, the religious holy days and feast days were based upon the natural year/religious calendar. For my daily secular activities, I follow the Gregorian calendar, because that is what our society uses, and if I want to keep abreast of what is going on in our world, then I would be in peril to ignore it.
So, enjoy the twelve days of Christmas, any way you choose to celebrate them, as long as God is honored. Let there be peace on earth and goodwill to all men. Let us not just limit Christmas to a day, or even to a season, but let the hope, peace, and love of Christmas spread out throughout the coming year.
Happy Kwanza! Happy holidays! Merry Christmas! Happy New year!
Monday, December 21, 2009
Winter Solstice and Christmas
Today is December 21, and is the official start of winter, and the day when the winter solstice occurs. The winter solistice is an astronomical event where the sun is at its lowest point relative to the earth, and in the northern hemisphere, the day of the winter solistice is the shortest day/longest night. This event marks the beginning of winter.
Around the world, cultures observe and celebrate the winter solstice, and give thanks for the year that is ending, with various rituals and celebrations, some of which are considered pagan. In our Christian culture, the winter solstice is celebrated by observing the birth of Christ. What better and more fitting way to give honor to God, than by worshipping and celebrating the birth of the one who created the winter solstice. The winter solstice is God's ongoing promise to us that the seasons will never end. As long as the earth remains, we will always have spring, summer, autumn, and winter. "As long as the earth endures, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night will never cease." (Genesis 8:22).
Around the world, cultures observe and celebrate the winter solstice, and give thanks for the year that is ending, with various rituals and celebrations, some of which are considered pagan. In our Christian culture, the winter solstice is celebrated by observing the birth of Christ. What better and more fitting way to give honor to God, than by worshipping and celebrating the birth of the one who created the winter solstice. The winter solstice is God's ongoing promise to us that the seasons will never end. As long as the earth remains, we will always have spring, summer, autumn, and winter. "As long as the earth endures, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night will never cease." (Genesis 8:22).
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Man and Climate Change
It was only just last week that the discussions on climate change began in Copenhagen by world leaders, in order to curb global warming and the supposed climate change that will result, if global warming is not curbed. Now I know this is a very touchy subject with strong feelings on both sides of the debate. There are those who deny global warming and its impact on our planet, and there are those who acknowledge global warming, and see it as a threat to the balance of life on this planet, and its potential impact on climate. In this blog post, I am going to give a spiritual viewpoint on global warming and climate change and really show that yes, we should be concerned about global warming, but not climate change. Sounds contradictory? Well continue reading to find out more.
Climate is a result of a complex set of conditions that governs our atmospheric temperature, humidity, precipitation, barometric pressure, wind factor and so on. It depends upon our relative position from the sun and moon, the tilt of the earth of its axis, the rotation of the earth on its axis, the rotation of the earth around the sun, the rotation of the moon around the earth, longitudes and lattitudes, ocean currents/flows, and climate zones. In our northern hemisphere, we experience a temperate climate which consists of spring, summer, autumn, and winter, each of which brings different types of weather and atmospheric conditions. None of these seasons are in any way under the control of man. There is nothing that we can do to stop spring, summer, autumn or winter from occuring. Nothing! No amount of carbon pollutants and toxic environmental pollutants can change the seasons or the climates. Precipitation, such as rain or snow is not dependent on how many trees there are, but on the ocean. That vast body of water, the ocean, is the major reserve of all of earth's water supply, as well as underground streams and polar caps. Yes, melting of the polar caps can potentially cause sea levels to rise, but the polar caps will not totally melt away, because of the position of the arctic and antaractic poles relative to the sun, and the tilt of the earth on its axis. Polar caps go through this cycle of melting and refreezing year after year after year. In summer, when it is hotter, the ice melts but not totally, and in winter the water freezes and there is more ice overall.
During the time of Noah's flood the earth was covered with water, but where did all that water come from? In Genesis 7:11 it says, "In the six hundredth year of Noah's life, in the second month, the seventeenth day of the month, the same day were all the fountains of the great deep broken up, and the windows of heaven were opened." The waters came from the fountains of the ocean (the great deep) and from rain! Apparently, there are reserve storehouses of water beneath the earth separate from the ocean itself. This we know to be true because below the earth are myriads of underground fountains and rivers. Look, even here in Florida, in our state, we are floating on massive channels of underground water. That is why there are so many lakes here, and if you dig far enough, you will find water. One of the laws in Florida is that no one should build a swimming pool deeper than six feet, because below that there is no ground, but only water. The natural law of rivers and oceans tell us the same thing. Rivers spring from underground sources/fountains, but always return back the sea/ocean, completing the cycle. It was the same in Noah's day. After the earth was flooded by water from the underground springs and rain, the water returned back to its rightful place again. The underground springs received back its water, and the rain water evaporated off the ground and returned to the atmosphere and the oceans - all kept in store, never to flood the earth again. That is God's promise - that He will never destroy the earth again with water, and He has been keeping that promise all along since the time of Noah, and continues to keep that promise even today (Genesis 9:11). Everytime we see a rainbow in the sky, it is God's reminder to us that the earth will never be destroyed by a worldwide flood (vs. 13-14).
So now, since man is incapable of changing the climate, shall we then not be concerned about the environment and taking care of the earth? God forbid. This planet is God's gift to us, and we are called to be stewards of this planet, and take care of it. The toxic pollutants/chemicals and greenhouse gases, while they do not change the climate, do destroy the purity of the air we breathe, the water we drink, and food we eat. The cutting down of trees in forested areas destroy the delicate balance of the eco-system, and leaves the ground bare and unprotected from erosion. This can affect the quantity and quality of natural resources available to us on earth for our use, and food production. If we continue to destroy the earth, the earth might not be able to give to us of its resources. A judgment is coming upon those who use and abuse the earth in a careless manner. In Revelation 11:18 it says:
And the nations were angry, and thy wrath is come, and the time of the dead, that they should be judged, and that thou shouldest give reward unto thy servants the prophets, and to the saints, and them that fear thy name, small and great; and shouldest destroy them which destroy the earth.
So yes, while pollutants cannot change our climate, they can destroy the beauty and health of this planet, and make living conditions unbearable. How would you like to live in a world of acid rain, polluted streams, barren lands, and smog-filled air? That is where we are heading for if we do not do something to protect this planet.
Climate is a result of a complex set of conditions that governs our atmospheric temperature, humidity, precipitation, barometric pressure, wind factor and so on. It depends upon our relative position from the sun and moon, the tilt of the earth of its axis, the rotation of the earth on its axis, the rotation of the earth around the sun, the rotation of the moon around the earth, longitudes and lattitudes, ocean currents/flows, and climate zones. In our northern hemisphere, we experience a temperate climate which consists of spring, summer, autumn, and winter, each of which brings different types of weather and atmospheric conditions. None of these seasons are in any way under the control of man. There is nothing that we can do to stop spring, summer, autumn or winter from occuring. Nothing! No amount of carbon pollutants and toxic environmental pollutants can change the seasons or the climates. Precipitation, such as rain or snow is not dependent on how many trees there are, but on the ocean. That vast body of water, the ocean, is the major reserve of all of earth's water supply, as well as underground streams and polar caps. Yes, melting of the polar caps can potentially cause sea levels to rise, but the polar caps will not totally melt away, because of the position of the arctic and antaractic poles relative to the sun, and the tilt of the earth on its axis. Polar caps go through this cycle of melting and refreezing year after year after year. In summer, when it is hotter, the ice melts but not totally, and in winter the water freezes and there is more ice overall.
During the time of Noah's flood the earth was covered with water, but where did all that water come from? In Genesis 7:11 it says, "In the six hundredth year of Noah's life, in the second month, the seventeenth day of the month, the same day were all the fountains of the great deep broken up, and the windows of heaven were opened." The waters came from the fountains of the ocean (the great deep) and from rain! Apparently, there are reserve storehouses of water beneath the earth separate from the ocean itself. This we know to be true because below the earth are myriads of underground fountains and rivers. Look, even here in Florida, in our state, we are floating on massive channels of underground water. That is why there are so many lakes here, and if you dig far enough, you will find water. One of the laws in Florida is that no one should build a swimming pool deeper than six feet, because below that there is no ground, but only water. The natural law of rivers and oceans tell us the same thing. Rivers spring from underground sources/fountains, but always return back the sea/ocean, completing the cycle. It was the same in Noah's day. After the earth was flooded by water from the underground springs and rain, the water returned back to its rightful place again. The underground springs received back its water, and the rain water evaporated off the ground and returned to the atmosphere and the oceans - all kept in store, never to flood the earth again. That is God's promise - that He will never destroy the earth again with water, and He has been keeping that promise all along since the time of Noah, and continues to keep that promise even today (Genesis 9:11). Everytime we see a rainbow in the sky, it is God's reminder to us that the earth will never be destroyed by a worldwide flood (vs. 13-14).
So now, since man is incapable of changing the climate, shall we then not be concerned about the environment and taking care of the earth? God forbid. This planet is God's gift to us, and we are called to be stewards of this planet, and take care of it. The toxic pollutants/chemicals and greenhouse gases, while they do not change the climate, do destroy the purity of the air we breathe, the water we drink, and food we eat. The cutting down of trees in forested areas destroy the delicate balance of the eco-system, and leaves the ground bare and unprotected from erosion. This can affect the quantity and quality of natural resources available to us on earth for our use, and food production. If we continue to destroy the earth, the earth might not be able to give to us of its resources. A judgment is coming upon those who use and abuse the earth in a careless manner. In Revelation 11:18 it says:
And the nations were angry, and thy wrath is come, and the time of the dead, that they should be judged, and that thou shouldest give reward unto thy servants the prophets, and to the saints, and them that fear thy name, small and great; and shouldest destroy them which destroy the earth.
So yes, while pollutants cannot change our climate, they can destroy the beauty and health of this planet, and make living conditions unbearable. How would you like to live in a world of acid rain, polluted streams, barren lands, and smog-filled air? That is where we are heading for if we do not do something to protect this planet.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Climate Change
Lots of theories, speculation, and misconceptions surround the issue of climate change. I think it was last week that major world leaders met in Copehagen to discuss global warming and climate change. I do not have time now to delve into the details of that discussion, but I want to give a spiritual view of the whole matter of climate change. It is going to be real interesting. Just give me a few more days, as I am busy preparing for Christmas, and looking forward to the winter Solstice.
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Tiger Scandal May Put a Damper on Dating
The ongoing Tiger Wood scandal in my opinion will have major repercussions on the dating scene. For one, when men see the downfall of Tiger due to his cheating, many men will rethink cheating on their wives, for fear of their lives being destroyed. I mean, many men have a 'good thing" going on at home, and some do not even appreciate it or value it. They are always searching for more, and never satisfied with what they have. If there is any good that will come out of this Tiger Wood scandal, then it will be that men will learn how to appreciate their wives at home more.
Hey guys! You are married to the woman. Spend some time building that relationship and make it the best relationship there is. If you are a born-again Christian man, then there should be NO PLACE FOR HATE in your heart. Do not even entertain the thought that you do not love your wife. God is love, and he who hates his brother, or wife does not have the love of God in him. How can you say that you love God, whom you have not seen, but do not love your wife, whom you can see? If you say you love God, and do not love your wife, then you make yourself a liar, and have betrayed the faith. Practice sacred Biblical sexuality with your wife, and reap the rewards - deepening love and fidelity, and a sacred bond of love that will last for all eternity.
P.S. Marriage does not last forever "until death do we part" but love lasts forever.
Hey guys! You are married to the woman. Spend some time building that relationship and make it the best relationship there is. If you are a born-again Christian man, then there should be NO PLACE FOR HATE in your heart. Do not even entertain the thought that you do not love your wife. God is love, and he who hates his brother, or wife does not have the love of God in him. How can you say that you love God, whom you have not seen, but do not love your wife, whom you can see? If you say you love God, and do not love your wife, then you make yourself a liar, and have betrayed the faith. Practice sacred Biblical sexuality with your wife, and reap the rewards - deepening love and fidelity, and a sacred bond of love that will last for all eternity.
P.S. Marriage does not last forever "until death do we part" but love lasts forever.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Why Do Men Cheat?
1My son, attend unto my wisdom, and bow thine ear to my understanding:
2That thou mayest regard discretion, and that thy lips may keep knowledge.
3For the lips of a strange woman drop as an honeycomb, and her mouth is smoother than oil:
4But her end is bitter as wormwood, sharp as a two-edged sword.
5Her feet go down to death; her steps take hold on hell.
6Lest thou shouldest ponder the path of life, her ways are moveable, that thou canst not know them.
7Hear me now therefore, O ye children, and depart not from the words of my mouth.
8Remove thy way far from her, and come not nigh the door of her house:
9Lest thou give thine honour unto others, and thy years unto the cruel:
10Lest strangers be filled with thy wealth; and thy labours be in the house of a stranger;
11And thou mourn at the last, when thy flesh and thy body are consumed,
12And say, How have I hated instruction, and my heart despised reproof;
13And have not obeyed the voice of my teachers, nor inclined mine ear to them that instructed me!
14I was almost in all evil in the midst of the congregation and assembly.
15Drink waters out of thine own cistern, and running waters out of thine own well.
16Let thy fountains be dispersed abroad, and rivers of waters in the streets.
17Let them be only thine own, and not strangers' with thee.
18Let thy fountain be blessed: and rejoice with the wife of thy youth.
19Let her be as the loving hind and pleasant roe; let her breasts satisfy thee at all times; and be thou ravished always with her love.
20And why wilt thou, my son, be ravished with a strange woman, and embrace the bosom of a stranger?
21For the ways of man are before the eyes of the LORD, and he pondereth all his goings.
22His own iniquities shall take the wicked himself, and he shall be holden with the cords of his sins.
23He shall die without instruction; and in the greatness of his folly he shall go astray. (Proverbs 5, King James Version)
The ongoing Tiger Woods scandal has got us talking again about adultery, marriage, and money, and asking the age-old question: Why do people cheat on their spouses?
I cannot help but feel bad for Tiger and his wife, and I am sure they are both going through a rough time right now. I do not know why he cheated, or if there is a really a real reason for cheating, except for lust. Oh yes, that four-letter word called lust, which is the root of all our sin problems. Lust, by definition, is an evil desire, or a desire for something you ought not to have. Apparently, Tiger's lust got the better of him, and he not only desired what he ought not to have, but also indulged in what he ought not to have. I tell you, when lust gets a hold upon you, it is very hard to resist. Sometimes the only way out of the hold of lust, is prayer, for the desires of lust can be extremely strong, and can hold you captive. Now I am not making any excuses for Tiger, but I am just showing how lust, when played out, can lead to devastating results.
It was only a few weeks ago that I was writing extensively on sacred Biblical sexuality. Some people probably thought it was inappropriate, but what has happened to Tiger has proved to me, more than ever, the importance of sacred Biblical sexuality. In sacred sex, each person in the union is held as special, and everything is done as a way of honoring the body, soul, and spirit of your mate. When one holds such a high regard for one's mate, there will be little to no opportunituy for lust to find a place in your marriage.
2That thou mayest regard discretion, and that thy lips may keep knowledge.
3For the lips of a strange woman drop as an honeycomb, and her mouth is smoother than oil:
4But her end is bitter as wormwood, sharp as a two-edged sword.
5Her feet go down to death; her steps take hold on hell.
6Lest thou shouldest ponder the path of life, her ways are moveable, that thou canst not know them.
7Hear me now therefore, O ye children, and depart not from the words of my mouth.
8Remove thy way far from her, and come not nigh the door of her house:
9Lest thou give thine honour unto others, and thy years unto the cruel:
10Lest strangers be filled with thy wealth; and thy labours be in the house of a stranger;
11And thou mourn at the last, when thy flesh and thy body are consumed,
12And say, How have I hated instruction, and my heart despised reproof;
13And have not obeyed the voice of my teachers, nor inclined mine ear to them that instructed me!
14I was almost in all evil in the midst of the congregation and assembly.
15Drink waters out of thine own cistern, and running waters out of thine own well.
16Let thy fountains be dispersed abroad, and rivers of waters in the streets.
17Let them be only thine own, and not strangers' with thee.
18Let thy fountain be blessed: and rejoice with the wife of thy youth.
19Let her be as the loving hind and pleasant roe; let her breasts satisfy thee at all times; and be thou ravished always with her love.
20And why wilt thou, my son, be ravished with a strange woman, and embrace the bosom of a stranger?
21For the ways of man are before the eyes of the LORD, and he pondereth all his goings.
22His own iniquities shall take the wicked himself, and he shall be holden with the cords of his sins.
23He shall die without instruction; and in the greatness of his folly he shall go astray. (Proverbs 5, King James Version)
The ongoing Tiger Woods scandal has got us talking again about adultery, marriage, and money, and asking the age-old question: Why do people cheat on their spouses?
I cannot help but feel bad for Tiger and his wife, and I am sure they are both going through a rough time right now. I do not know why he cheated, or if there is a really a real reason for cheating, except for lust. Oh yes, that four-letter word called lust, which is the root of all our sin problems. Lust, by definition, is an evil desire, or a desire for something you ought not to have. Apparently, Tiger's lust got the better of him, and he not only desired what he ought not to have, but also indulged in what he ought not to have. I tell you, when lust gets a hold upon you, it is very hard to resist. Sometimes the only way out of the hold of lust, is prayer, for the desires of lust can be extremely strong, and can hold you captive. Now I am not making any excuses for Tiger, but I am just showing how lust, when played out, can lead to devastating results.
It was only a few weeks ago that I was writing extensively on sacred Biblical sexuality. Some people probably thought it was inappropriate, but what has happened to Tiger has proved to me, more than ever, the importance of sacred Biblical sexuality. In sacred sex, each person in the union is held as special, and everything is done as a way of honoring the body, soul, and spirit of your mate. When one holds such a high regard for one's mate, there will be little to no opportunituy for lust to find a place in your marriage.
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Make Your Home a Haven That Excites the Senses
You know, the holidays are special to me because they provide the opportunity for me to enjoy my home when otherwise I would be dashing in and out being pre-occupied with other things- whether it is dashing off to work, or on errands, or sitting in front of this computer working for endless hours - I sometimes do not even notice my home. I do however try to create a haven of rest and relaxation in my home that tends to calm or excite the senses, and that takes my mind off the 'hot topic' of the day. For this Thanksgiving season , I was a little late with my decorating, but I got it all done on Thanksgiving Day, before the guests arrived! I created an ambience of the season of fall. You know, down here in Florida we don't experience the fall season like many of our neighbors up north. There are no leaves changing color, and very little by way of cold weather, unless of course you came to my house! In my house I had real leaves of different fall hues (purchased at the grocery store of course!), dried floral arrangements, scented pine cones (I purchased some, but I picked up some unscented ones for free at the park this weekend!), and scented cinnamon broom. The home smelled of apples and cinnamon, and I completed the effect with a large burning scented candle, and some Christmas lights on a artificial palm tree as a back drop. I also had miniature indian corns and miniature squashes as all part of the decoration. I opened the back windows, and let the fresh air from outside cool the outer den, and inside we sat in air conditioned comfort (sorry, I could not open my other windows as they were stuck from years of being too old!).
I think I am beginning to love this old home which I bought. At first, I was so disappointed that I missed out on purchasing a newer home because of the run on real estate a couple of years ago, and I really hated this house. I bought out of necessity because we needed a place where my husband could work on cars without interference from neighbors or the city, in our own garage. We were living previously in an apartment and if our cars broke down, he had nowhere to work on them. Now I have grown to love this house. It has become a place of comfort and solace. I feel comfy here. It is quiet, I have greenery all around me on the outside, and inside it's a haven. Many times I feel the presence of God within these walls bringing me peace and joy.
I pray that everyone will make their home a haven - a place where the love of God, and His peace rests, and where you can enjoy all the good things God has given you.
I think I am beginning to love this old home which I bought. At first, I was so disappointed that I missed out on purchasing a newer home because of the run on real estate a couple of years ago, and I really hated this house. I bought out of necessity because we needed a place where my husband could work on cars without interference from neighbors or the city, in our own garage. We were living previously in an apartment and if our cars broke down, he had nowhere to work on them. Now I have grown to love this house. It has become a place of comfort and solace. I feel comfy here. It is quiet, I have greenery all around me on the outside, and inside it's a haven. Many times I feel the presence of God within these walls bringing me peace and joy.
I pray that everyone will make their home a haven - a place where the love of God, and His peace rests, and where you can enjoy all the good things God has given you.
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Black Friday
Now that Thanksgiving is ending, it is time to get ready for Black Friday! Yeah, the long-anticipated Black Friday is just a few hours away, and people are gearing up to swoop down on the stores early in the morning, to catch some deep discounts. As for myself, I will not be venturing out in the morning, but I wish everyone success in getting what they want. You know, nothing gives quite such a rush as bargain shopping. You get the same level of excitement and adrenalin rush just as you would in any sport. It can even get rough and aggressive too. What out for the little old ladies with shopping carts! They will run you right over if you are not paying attention. And what about that mad dash and sprint we do when we see the last item on the shelf and someone else tries to beat us to it. Don't you feel good when you get there first?
Enjoy the shopping and enjoy the bargains. Remember to be courteous to your fellow shopper although some can be downright rude. Show Christian charity. Hey, it's not the end of the world if you don't get that discount. Thank God for what you do have, and for what He is going to allow you to have. Bless others with your shopping, and remember to also buy gifts for people who cannot buy a gift for you in return.
Happy shopping!
Enjoy the shopping and enjoy the bargains. Remember to be courteous to your fellow shopper although some can be downright rude. Show Christian charity. Hey, it's not the end of the world if you don't get that discount. Thank God for what you do have, and for what He is going to allow you to have. Bless others with your shopping, and remember to also buy gifts for people who cannot buy a gift for you in return.
Happy shopping!
Friday, November 20, 2009
Now It's Cervical Cancer!
I just heard this morning that the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists is recommending that women should start cervical cancer screening at age 21, and not sooner, as it now is. Originally, Pap smear tests were recommended for teenagers who were sexually active, but that is no longer recommended. This comes upon the heels of the controversial mammogram guidelines. To read the full article please click on the following link Cervical Cancer Guideline Changes.
I must say I was surprised by this one, as cervical cancer poses a real threat to sexually active women. Cervical cancer is caused from the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). Infection from this virus can lead to cervical cancer in sexually active women. In non-sexually active women, the body's immune system is usually sufficient enough to conteract the effects of this virus.
Here is the thing. Those of us who practice sacred Biblical sexuality have little to fear from HPV. The typical profile of a person with cervical cancer is one who is female, sexually active with multiple partners, and who may have started to have sex at a relatively young age, such as in their teens. Biblical sexuality condemns 'harlotry', and by harlotry I do not mean being a prostitute. In the Bible, harlotry means someone who sleeps around with many lovers, "but thou hast played the harlot with many lovers"(Jeremiah 3:1).
The reality is that we cannot totally depend upon health insurance or the health care system to bail us out of our many ailments. There are times when health insurance simply just does not want to pay, and my suspicion is that there is a fear that with 'free health insurance' people will not want to take responsibility for their own health. Ahh... the politics of it all. At any rate, depending on health care providers to keep you healthy when you can help yourself does, and can overwhelm the system. As a health care provider myself, I DO make a living when people are sick, but sometimes people come into the hospital with medical conditions that are incurable, because they did not take the appropriate measures when the disease was curable or manageable, and some illnesses are highly preventable, such as cervical cancer.
If we follow the Biblical guidelines for sexuality, we will reap the rewards of good health and long life, and a satisfying relationship with our mate and God.
My son, forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments: For length of days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to thee (Proverbs 3:1-2).
I must say I was surprised by this one, as cervical cancer poses a real threat to sexually active women. Cervical cancer is caused from the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). Infection from this virus can lead to cervical cancer in sexually active women. In non-sexually active women, the body's immune system is usually sufficient enough to conteract the effects of this virus.
Here is the thing. Those of us who practice sacred Biblical sexuality have little to fear from HPV. The typical profile of a person with cervical cancer is one who is female, sexually active with multiple partners, and who may have started to have sex at a relatively young age, such as in their teens. Biblical sexuality condemns 'harlotry', and by harlotry I do not mean being a prostitute. In the Bible, harlotry means someone who sleeps around with many lovers, "but thou hast played the harlot with many lovers"(Jeremiah 3:1).
The reality is that we cannot totally depend upon health insurance or the health care system to bail us out of our many ailments. There are times when health insurance simply just does not want to pay, and my suspicion is that there is a fear that with 'free health insurance' people will not want to take responsibility for their own health. Ahh... the politics of it all. At any rate, depending on health care providers to keep you healthy when you can help yourself does, and can overwhelm the system. As a health care provider myself, I DO make a living when people are sick, but sometimes people come into the hospital with medical conditions that are incurable, because they did not take the appropriate measures when the disease was curable or manageable, and some illnesses are highly preventable, such as cervical cancer.
If we follow the Biblical guidelines for sexuality, we will reap the rewards of good health and long life, and a satisfying relationship with our mate and God.
My son, forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments: For length of days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to thee (Proverbs 3:1-2).
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
New Mammogram Guidelines
The new mammogram guidelines have just come out this week, and the new guidelines call for annual mammogram screening starting at age 50, instead of 40, as in the present guidelines. The new guidelines also call for women to cease self-breast examinations as well. Not surprisingly then, these guidelines are causing major uproar among women and breast health providers, as many feel that these guidelines will do NOTHING to prevent or decrease death from breast cancer, but may INCREASE the number of deaths from breast cancer, due to late detection.
It is a known fact that breast cancer, when caught early is highly 'curable.' I put 'curable' in quotes because the treatments which we have for breast cancer are not really cures, but treatments and procedures to remove malignancy. The later the diagnosis for breast cancer, the poorer the prognosis, and the increase risk of death by breast cancer. As a physical therapist, I have worked with many patients with breast cancer, and I have even had opportunity to work with post-mastectomy patients in order to heal them of post-mastectomy lymphedema. I have also worked with women who had suffered from breast contusions/swellings of traumatic origin. I have found that the longer one waits to make a diagnosis and start treatment, the greater the level of medical involvement that is needed to cure the breast cancer. While a simple lump can be handled by a lumpectomy, more larger lumps may need mastectomy, in addition to radiation/chemotherapy. If the cancer metastasizes, then the patient will need extensive chemotherapy. Needing extensive chemotherapy suggests a very bad prognosis, and many breast cancer patients with metastatic lesions die, in spite of chemotherapy. When you think of the increased medical costs and loss of life associated with late detection and treatment of breast cancer, it just does not make any sense why the government would endorse a program that would promote late detection. Below are my ideas about the new guidelines
Eliminate Monthly Breast Exams: I wholeheartedly agree with this one. Monthly breast exams in my estimation are useless, and should be eliminated, however I do not endorse the view that breast exams should not be done at all! Women instead should do daily breast self-caresses. The breast represents that part of the woman concerned with nurturing. The breasts were made to nurture a baby. It says in Psalm 22:9, "thou art he that took me out of the womb: thou didst make me hope when I was upon my mother's breasts." The breasts were also made to be nurtured by your spouse as well!
"Let thy fountain be blessed: and rejoice with the wife of thy youth. Let her be as the loving hind and pleasant roe; let her breasts satisfy thee at all times; and be thou ravished always with her love" (Proverbs 5:18-19).
Loving caresses of your breasts by your spouse will go a long way towards detection than any random, once-a-month self-exam. For the pre-menopausal woman, breast tissues change throughout the month. Sometimes your breast is more lumpy and more tender than usual. That's normal! For you to know when a lump is unusual, you have to know your breast! Practice daily self caresses to your breasts, and as an added bonus, let your spouse know your breasts too, in a loving way. He too can be your ally in keeping your breasts healthy for your good health, and his pleasure!
Mammograms after 50 instead of 40: In this I have no expertise. Maybe there is something to women getting too much radiation exposure, however, if a woman under 50 finds an unusual lump in her breast, then mammograms are great for diagnosis! The key however is to know your breasts! I am a woman over 40, and it has been 2 years since my last mammogram. My first mammogram caused a lot of anxiety for me because they found an unusual spot in one of my breasts. I was then subjected to a breast ultrasound, and then told to 'watch it.' I then went for a follow-up the next year, and that spot had disappeared! Miracle of God, or false postive? I do not know, but one thing I do know, it is important to know your breasts!
I pray that each and every woman becomes more active in their health and in knowing their body, and for heaven's sake, Get to know your breasts!
It is a known fact that breast cancer, when caught early is highly 'curable.' I put 'curable' in quotes because the treatments which we have for breast cancer are not really cures, but treatments and procedures to remove malignancy. The later the diagnosis for breast cancer, the poorer the prognosis, and the increase risk of death by breast cancer. As a physical therapist, I have worked with many patients with breast cancer, and I have even had opportunity to work with post-mastectomy patients in order to heal them of post-mastectomy lymphedema. I have also worked with women who had suffered from breast contusions/swellings of traumatic origin. I have found that the longer one waits to make a diagnosis and start treatment, the greater the level of medical involvement that is needed to cure the breast cancer. While a simple lump can be handled by a lumpectomy, more larger lumps may need mastectomy, in addition to radiation/chemotherapy. If the cancer metastasizes, then the patient will need extensive chemotherapy. Needing extensive chemotherapy suggests a very bad prognosis, and many breast cancer patients with metastatic lesions die, in spite of chemotherapy. When you think of the increased medical costs and loss of life associated with late detection and treatment of breast cancer, it just does not make any sense why the government would endorse a program that would promote late detection. Below are my ideas about the new guidelines
Eliminate Monthly Breast Exams: I wholeheartedly agree with this one. Monthly breast exams in my estimation are useless, and should be eliminated, however I do not endorse the view that breast exams should not be done at all! Women instead should do daily breast self-caresses. The breast represents that part of the woman concerned with nurturing. The breasts were made to nurture a baby. It says in Psalm 22:9, "thou art he that took me out of the womb: thou didst make me hope when I was upon my mother's breasts." The breasts were also made to be nurtured by your spouse as well!
"Let thy fountain be blessed: and rejoice with the wife of thy youth. Let her be as the loving hind and pleasant roe; let her breasts satisfy thee at all times; and be thou ravished always with her love" (Proverbs 5:18-19).
Loving caresses of your breasts by your spouse will go a long way towards detection than any random, once-a-month self-exam. For the pre-menopausal woman, breast tissues change throughout the month. Sometimes your breast is more lumpy and more tender than usual. That's normal! For you to know when a lump is unusual, you have to know your breast! Practice daily self caresses to your breasts, and as an added bonus, let your spouse know your breasts too, in a loving way. He too can be your ally in keeping your breasts healthy for your good health, and his pleasure!
Mammograms after 50 instead of 40: In this I have no expertise. Maybe there is something to women getting too much radiation exposure, however, if a woman under 50 finds an unusual lump in her breast, then mammograms are great for diagnosis! The key however is to know your breasts! I am a woman over 40, and it has been 2 years since my last mammogram. My first mammogram caused a lot of anxiety for me because they found an unusual spot in one of my breasts. I was then subjected to a breast ultrasound, and then told to 'watch it.' I then went for a follow-up the next year, and that spot had disappeared! Miracle of God, or false postive? I do not know, but one thing I do know, it is important to know your breasts!
I pray that each and every woman becomes more active in their health and in knowing their body, and for heaven's sake, Get to know your breasts!
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Pregnancy is Not a Disease
Don't let the title of this blog throw you off! In this post I will be writing about the spiritual aspects of money being spent on abortions, as a procedure to terminate pregnancies.
Today I am going to weigh in on the health care debate. As you know, Congress recently passed a health care reform bill that provides no funding for abortion. This has sparked controversy nationwide and has pitted the anti-abortionists against the pro-abortionists, as each try to jockey to have the Stupak amendment either removed, or kept, as the bill goes to the Senate. In this post, I will try to steer clear away from the politics of it all, and let the powers that be come up with the right solution. It is my belief that Health Care Reform is something that IS TO COME, and nothing we can really do is going to stop it from coming, HOWEVER, the details of what is contained in any health reform bill is really UP TO US. This is our opportunity to do the right and moral thing for this country. This is the time for us to make decisions not based upon selfish goals and ambitions, but upon doing what is right for others, with an attitude of service to others. The decisions we make in this health care bill will have ramifications of great consequence, not only for this world, but also for the world to come, as God is our judge.
One of the biggest debate surrounding the present health care reform bill is the funding of abortions. Anti-abortion advocates have successfully lobbied congress to exclude any funding for abortions, while pro-abortionists are now lobbying the Senate to include funding for abortions. Anti-abortionists do not want government-sponsored abortions included because abortion is a moral sin that takes the life of the unborn. I totally agree with them. Why should the government become a co-party to one's sexual indiscretions and help that person cover up or get rid of the fruit of their indiscretions? What business is it of government to help us hide our sins? I thought the role of government was to expose sin and punish it -not hide it (Romans 13:1-5). In addition, in matters of conscience, where the government has NO ROLE, government has no business helping the guilty, the hard-hearted, and the selfish in their mission. Okay, okay, I have heard about families that cannot afford to feed one more mouth maybe considering abortion as the solution to their financial problem. To those families I say, you have a real problem because your finances are not allowing you to properly take care of the children you already have, and you feel you cannot handle any more children financially. What those families need is not an abortion but help. They need help in learning how to gain mastery over their sexual encounters. They need help in raising their children. They need help in getting through the pregnancy. This is where families, churches and the community at large can help. Children are a heritage from God, thus if we give aid and help to children, we are actually doing for them as unto Christ (Psalm 127:3, Matthew 18:5; Matthew 25:40).
One of the arguments used by pro-abortionists is that abortion is a medical procedure, and thus should be covered as a health care service. I say, totally wrong! Many medical procedures are performed by doctors today, that are not covered as health care. For example, face lifts, breast augmentations, tummy tucks, and so on. The reason why those procedures are not covered is because they are not done to treat any type of disease. Now tell me, what disease is abortion treating? The last time I looked, pregnancy was not listed as a disease. Pregnancy is not even a medical condition. Pregnancy is a natural consequence of the sperm of the male uniting with and fertilizing the egg of a female. What develops is a new life which needs to be cared for and protected while in the womb. During pregnancy, the mother needs to practice healthy lifestyle choices to care for herself and her unborn child. It is one of the rare opportunities we have to be co-partner with God in the creation process. It is a life-giving process which brings in new life, which contrasts so vastly with a disease. Disease tends to the diminishment of life, and it destroys, and kills. Pregnancy, on the other hand, gives new life and renews. Pregnancy is therefore not a disease to be treated, but a process by which we honor the body as a living temple, that is capable of bringing forth new life.
Do you know that God considers the unborn to be a person, and not just a 'potential life' as some would like us to think? If you don't believe me, please read the following scriptures (emphasis supplied).
"I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well. My substance was not hid from thee, when I was made in secret, and curiously wrought in the lowest parts of the earth. Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being UNPERFECT and in thy book all my members were written, which in continuance were fashioned, when as yet there was NONE of them" (Psalm 139:14-16).
"Before I formed thee in the belly I KNEW thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I SANCTIFIED thee, and I ORDAINED thee a prophet unto the nations" (Jeremiah 1:5).
"Thus saith the LORD, thy redeemer, and he that formed thee from the womb, I am the LORD that maketh all things; that stretcheth forth the heavens alone; that spreadeth abroad the earth by myself" (Isaiah 44:24).
So we see that the unborn is really a person that is being developed and formed in the womb. It is the most natural thing to happen and is a part of life. It is therefore not a disease that needs to be cured or treated. It is a process that needs to be facilitated along a healthy path - not stopped or thwarted. In my previous post Sacred Reproduction, I wrote about the sacredness of reproduction, and how it is a power God has given to us to use for His glory. Destroying a life that is growing within is not a sacred right of reproduction!
Economically speaking, should government finance abortions? NO! That money would be better spent on helping pregnant mothers to have safe and healthy pregnancies. No good government helps its citizens by destroying its own citizens, which include the unborn citizens. The unborn child is here already, so let him/her come. Do not become a stumbling block to that process. Jesus warns us to "take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven" because it not God's will "that one of these little ones should perish (Matthew 18:10; 14). Government has no place funding the destruction of its own people.
God is seeking after godly seed (Malachi 2:15), and who knows which of these unborn children will grow up to be a man or woman of God, and a light to this world? Hey, if the mothers of some of the greatest people on earth thought about their pregnancies as conditions that needed to be corrected, where would we be today? We would have lost out on some of the greatest minds in the world. The circumstances surrounding the conception of a child is of less consequence than that the child is conceived. A new life means someone new to love, regardless of the surrounding circumstances. Let us not use the child as the sacrifical lamb, to cover up our mistakes and indiscretions. Let us treat each child, whether born or unborn, as valuable gifts given to us from God.
Have you had an abortion? Yes, what you did was wrong, but God will forgive you if you repent. Yes, it is too late for your unborn child to make it alive in this world, but it is not too late for you to turn your life around. God in His mercies will change your heart, so that you can give and receive love.
For mothers considering abortion, your money is better spent on caring for yourself and your unborn child through this time of pregnancy. If your financial circumstances are not that great, then now is the time to seek God's help by FAITH, to provide for you, in whatever way He chooses - whether through friends, family, charitable organizations, churches, social services, or miraculously. May you find the faith you need to trust Him completely.
Today I am going to weigh in on the health care debate. As you know, Congress recently passed a health care reform bill that provides no funding for abortion. This has sparked controversy nationwide and has pitted the anti-abortionists against the pro-abortionists, as each try to jockey to have the Stupak amendment either removed, or kept, as the bill goes to the Senate. In this post, I will try to steer clear away from the politics of it all, and let the powers that be come up with the right solution. It is my belief that Health Care Reform is something that IS TO COME, and nothing we can really do is going to stop it from coming, HOWEVER, the details of what is contained in any health reform bill is really UP TO US. This is our opportunity to do the right and moral thing for this country. This is the time for us to make decisions not based upon selfish goals and ambitions, but upon doing what is right for others, with an attitude of service to others. The decisions we make in this health care bill will have ramifications of great consequence, not only for this world, but also for the world to come, as God is our judge.
One of the biggest debate surrounding the present health care reform bill is the funding of abortions. Anti-abortion advocates have successfully lobbied congress to exclude any funding for abortions, while pro-abortionists are now lobbying the Senate to include funding for abortions. Anti-abortionists do not want government-sponsored abortions included because abortion is a moral sin that takes the life of the unborn. I totally agree with them. Why should the government become a co-party to one's sexual indiscretions and help that person cover up or get rid of the fruit of their indiscretions? What business is it of government to help us hide our sins? I thought the role of government was to expose sin and punish it -not hide it (Romans 13:1-5). In addition, in matters of conscience, where the government has NO ROLE, government has no business helping the guilty, the hard-hearted, and the selfish in their mission. Okay, okay, I have heard about families that cannot afford to feed one more mouth maybe considering abortion as the solution to their financial problem. To those families I say, you have a real problem because your finances are not allowing you to properly take care of the children you already have, and you feel you cannot handle any more children financially. What those families need is not an abortion but help. They need help in learning how to gain mastery over their sexual encounters. They need help in raising their children. They need help in getting through the pregnancy. This is where families, churches and the community at large can help. Children are a heritage from God, thus if we give aid and help to children, we are actually doing for them as unto Christ (Psalm 127:3, Matthew 18:5; Matthew 25:40).
One of the arguments used by pro-abortionists is that abortion is a medical procedure, and thus should be covered as a health care service. I say, totally wrong! Many medical procedures are performed by doctors today, that are not covered as health care. For example, face lifts, breast augmentations, tummy tucks, and so on. The reason why those procedures are not covered is because they are not done to treat any type of disease. Now tell me, what disease is abortion treating? The last time I looked, pregnancy was not listed as a disease. Pregnancy is not even a medical condition. Pregnancy is a natural consequence of the sperm of the male uniting with and fertilizing the egg of a female. What develops is a new life which needs to be cared for and protected while in the womb. During pregnancy, the mother needs to practice healthy lifestyle choices to care for herself and her unborn child. It is one of the rare opportunities we have to be co-partner with God in the creation process. It is a life-giving process which brings in new life, which contrasts so vastly with a disease. Disease tends to the diminishment of life, and it destroys, and kills. Pregnancy, on the other hand, gives new life and renews. Pregnancy is therefore not a disease to be treated, but a process by which we honor the body as a living temple, that is capable of bringing forth new life.
Do you know that God considers the unborn to be a person, and not just a 'potential life' as some would like us to think? If you don't believe me, please read the following scriptures (emphasis supplied).
"I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well. My substance was not hid from thee, when I was made in secret, and curiously wrought in the lowest parts of the earth. Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being UNPERFECT and in thy book all my members were written, which in continuance were fashioned, when as yet there was NONE of them" (Psalm 139:14-16).
"Before I formed thee in the belly I KNEW thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I SANCTIFIED thee, and I ORDAINED thee a prophet unto the nations" (Jeremiah 1:5).
"Thus saith the LORD, thy redeemer, and he that formed thee from the womb, I am the LORD that maketh all things; that stretcheth forth the heavens alone; that spreadeth abroad the earth by myself" (Isaiah 44:24).
So we see that the unborn is really a person that is being developed and formed in the womb. It is the most natural thing to happen and is a part of life. It is therefore not a disease that needs to be cured or treated. It is a process that needs to be facilitated along a healthy path - not stopped or thwarted. In my previous post Sacred Reproduction, I wrote about the sacredness of reproduction, and how it is a power God has given to us to use for His glory. Destroying a life that is growing within is not a sacred right of reproduction!
Economically speaking, should government finance abortions? NO! That money would be better spent on helping pregnant mothers to have safe and healthy pregnancies. No good government helps its citizens by destroying its own citizens, which include the unborn citizens. The unborn child is here already, so let him/her come. Do not become a stumbling block to that process. Jesus warns us to "take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven" because it not God's will "that one of these little ones should perish (Matthew 18:10; 14). Government has no place funding the destruction of its own people.
God is seeking after godly seed (Malachi 2:15), and who knows which of these unborn children will grow up to be a man or woman of God, and a light to this world? Hey, if the mothers of some of the greatest people on earth thought about their pregnancies as conditions that needed to be corrected, where would we be today? We would have lost out on some of the greatest minds in the world. The circumstances surrounding the conception of a child is of less consequence than that the child is conceived. A new life means someone new to love, regardless of the surrounding circumstances. Let us not use the child as the sacrifical lamb, to cover up our mistakes and indiscretions. Let us treat each child, whether born or unborn, as valuable gifts given to us from God.
Have you had an abortion? Yes, what you did was wrong, but God will forgive you if you repent. Yes, it is too late for your unborn child to make it alive in this world, but it is not too late for you to turn your life around. God in His mercies will change your heart, so that you can give and receive love.
For mothers considering abortion, your money is better spent on caring for yourself and your unborn child through this time of pregnancy. If your financial circumstances are not that great, then now is the time to seek God's help by FAITH, to provide for you, in whatever way He chooses - whether through friends, family, charitable organizations, churches, social services, or miraculously. May you find the faith you need to trust Him completely.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
The Two Economies
Today I begin my series on economics and spirituality. From time to time, as a Spiritual teacher, I delve into various topics as the Lord leads and as He sees fit. Although my expertise is in health and wellness, the Lord has seen it fit to give me instructions pertaining to spirituality and economics, as every believer needs to know some basic facts about economics as it relates to their spirituality. What I will be presenting here in this series of posts is the spiritual side to economics, and how the Biblical model of economics can be applied to our lives today, with GREAT results!
According to the leading economists of the day, the economic crisis is over, but yet, many Americans are still struggling to make ends meet. Many Christians as well as non Christians are struggling in this tough economy, and many are in despair, and are giving up hope for a brighter future. Some have even linked this economic downturn as a sign of an apocalyptic event, and many are terrified of what is to be. Mayan 2012 end-of-world hysteria is sweeping the nation, and the prospect of 'socialized medicine' is frightening to many. What I am going to present is the reality of the economic system from a spiritual stand-point, and show that God's people have NOTHING to worry about, regardless of what the economy does.
Few people realize it, but in the world, there are always two economies operating at the same time - the world's economy and God's economy. Both economics co-exist at the same time, but they run parallel to each other. The world's economy is based upon the economic models and systems of the world, and may employ one or more of the following economic systems such as capitalism, socialism, communism, and so on. The world's economic system is based upon money, and the assigned values placed upon material goods such as gold, silver, oil, precious stones, food, textile, and so on. The world's economy is heavily dependent upon the availabilty of material resources, and wealth is determined by who can amass the most of this world's resources and control it. It is a system based upon greed, and how much one can acquire.
As Christians, we partake of this world's economy. We have jobs, businesses, and buy goods and services, as all a part of living in this world. We cannot help but be a part of this world's economy, and there is no escaping it. When there is a drought, we are affected. If there is a famine or food shortages, we are also affected. When the economy is good, we benefit. When the economy is bad, we suffer the effects of that too. The mistake that many Christians make however, is to think that somehow they will be exempt from being affected when the economy is bad. They think that somehow God is going to exempt them from any suffering, just because they are Christians. How wrong they have been! Many Christians can attest to the fact that this economy has caused them to be in dire financial straits, with job losses, business losses, and investment losses. Consequently, they despair and think somehow that they have done something wrong, or that God is punishing them, or bringing them or the country under judgment.
My dear friends, in my opinion, I think the current economic crisis the world is facing is not a result of God's doing, but man's doing. God had very little to do with the economic crash on Wall Street, or the banks. These crashes were the result of the world's economic system gone awry. What people have failed to realize is that God has an economic system, which is based in the Bible, that contrasts with the present world economic system. It is an economic system that kept ancient Israel a prosperous country, without Israel having to attack or invade other countries for resources. If we took the time to learn about God's economic system, we would be surprised at how simple, yet effective it was for ancient Israel. A word of warning though - the ancient Biblical system can only be practiced by those of us of faith, who have faith in the power of God to cause an increase in prosperity. I will call this Biblical system faith-based economics, because it is an economic system that is dependent on faith in God to provide and prosper.
Faith-based economics is an economic system in which man becomes a co-worker with God, and where man puts in the effort, but God provides the increase in prosperity. It works like this: We work in faith, believing that God will prosper our work and efforts, and He rewards us by prospering our efforts. We believe that He will make us prosperous in all that we do, and that He will provide the resources we need to do our jobs and to live. It is a faith that believes not in the power of self to prosper, but in the power of God to make us prosper. In 1 Corinthians 3:6,7 we read, "I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God made it grow. So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow" (NIV). In this faith-based economy, the power to obtain wealth comes from God and not just from our own efforts or ingenuity. We read in Deuteronomy 8:18, that it is God who "giveth thee power to get wealth." People who practice faith-based economics will totally rely upon God to open doors of opportunity for wealth creation. God will prosper them with creative and imaginative thoughts and ideas. He will bring into their lives the right people at the right time. God will give them the strength and wisdom they need to excel in every area of life that He has called them to excel in. Such people rely upon God for strength, and not self, and they approach life being confident in God's strength. Instead of looking to or depending upon their own natural-born strength and abilities, faith-based practitioners draw heavily upon the immeasurable grace and power of God to succeed in life. They constantly say to themselves, "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me" (Phillipians 4:13).
One of the beauties of practicing faith-based economics is that regardless of what the economy does, whether it is good or bad, God can overrule economic situations in your personal favor. I can think of two persons in the Bible, whom God overruled the then current bad economic situation of the land, in their favor - the widow of 2 Kings 4:1-7 and the widow of 1 Kings 17:1-16. In both of these situations, there was a famine in the land of Israel, and God sent economic relief for both of these women. God overruled the tough economic situation in their favor, so that they obtained relief, in spite of the ongoing hardships all around them. God helped these two women, who had no means of support, and nothing but their faith in God. He helped them get through a tough economy, and He will do the same for us today. He will do the same for you. All you have to do is trust Him, and put your faith in Him that He will carry you through these tough times.
On a personal note, I have experienced the blessings of God in my life just from practicing faith-based economics. I remember several years ago I had to give up a very good-paying job, in order to be faithful to the commands of God. To my co-workers, what I had done was foolish, but I willingly took a demotion from my job, so that I would not have to compromise my faith. It has been several years now since that incident, but I can say, thank God I followed my faith! I am now in a much more financially secure job today, and in my job I can practice my faith without hindrance. Not only that, but one of my past fellow co-worker, who had clinged unto her old job, had recently expressed to me a desire to leave her job. I, who once looked so foolish for leaving, am now seen as someone wise. I tell you, when you follow your faith, and trust God to provide for you, He really will!
According to the leading economists of the day, the economic crisis is over, but yet, many Americans are still struggling to make ends meet. Many Christians as well as non Christians are struggling in this tough economy, and many are in despair, and are giving up hope for a brighter future. Some have even linked this economic downturn as a sign of an apocalyptic event, and many are terrified of what is to be. Mayan 2012 end-of-world hysteria is sweeping the nation, and the prospect of 'socialized medicine' is frightening to many. What I am going to present is the reality of the economic system from a spiritual stand-point, and show that God's people have NOTHING to worry about, regardless of what the economy does.
Few people realize it, but in the world, there are always two economies operating at the same time - the world's economy and God's economy. Both economics co-exist at the same time, but they run parallel to each other. The world's economy is based upon the economic models and systems of the world, and may employ one or more of the following economic systems such as capitalism, socialism, communism, and so on. The world's economic system is based upon money, and the assigned values placed upon material goods such as gold, silver, oil, precious stones, food, textile, and so on. The world's economy is heavily dependent upon the availabilty of material resources, and wealth is determined by who can amass the most of this world's resources and control it. It is a system based upon greed, and how much one can acquire.
As Christians, we partake of this world's economy. We have jobs, businesses, and buy goods and services, as all a part of living in this world. We cannot help but be a part of this world's economy, and there is no escaping it. When there is a drought, we are affected. If there is a famine or food shortages, we are also affected. When the economy is good, we benefit. When the economy is bad, we suffer the effects of that too. The mistake that many Christians make however, is to think that somehow they will be exempt from being affected when the economy is bad. They think that somehow God is going to exempt them from any suffering, just because they are Christians. How wrong they have been! Many Christians can attest to the fact that this economy has caused them to be in dire financial straits, with job losses, business losses, and investment losses. Consequently, they despair and think somehow that they have done something wrong, or that God is punishing them, or bringing them or the country under judgment.
My dear friends, in my opinion, I think the current economic crisis the world is facing is not a result of God's doing, but man's doing. God had very little to do with the economic crash on Wall Street, or the banks. These crashes were the result of the world's economic system gone awry. What people have failed to realize is that God has an economic system, which is based in the Bible, that contrasts with the present world economic system. It is an economic system that kept ancient Israel a prosperous country, without Israel having to attack or invade other countries for resources. If we took the time to learn about God's economic system, we would be surprised at how simple, yet effective it was for ancient Israel. A word of warning though - the ancient Biblical system can only be practiced by those of us of faith, who have faith in the power of God to cause an increase in prosperity. I will call this Biblical system faith-based economics, because it is an economic system that is dependent on faith in God to provide and prosper.
Faith-based economics is an economic system in which man becomes a co-worker with God, and where man puts in the effort, but God provides the increase in prosperity. It works like this: We work in faith, believing that God will prosper our work and efforts, and He rewards us by prospering our efforts. We believe that He will make us prosperous in all that we do, and that He will provide the resources we need to do our jobs and to live. It is a faith that believes not in the power of self to prosper, but in the power of God to make us prosper. In 1 Corinthians 3:6,7 we read, "I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God made it grow. So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow" (NIV). In this faith-based economy, the power to obtain wealth comes from God and not just from our own efforts or ingenuity. We read in Deuteronomy 8:18, that it is God who "giveth thee power to get wealth." People who practice faith-based economics will totally rely upon God to open doors of opportunity for wealth creation. God will prosper them with creative and imaginative thoughts and ideas. He will bring into their lives the right people at the right time. God will give them the strength and wisdom they need to excel in every area of life that He has called them to excel in. Such people rely upon God for strength, and not self, and they approach life being confident in God's strength. Instead of looking to or depending upon their own natural-born strength and abilities, faith-based practitioners draw heavily upon the immeasurable grace and power of God to succeed in life. They constantly say to themselves, "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me" (Phillipians 4:13).
One of the beauties of practicing faith-based economics is that regardless of what the economy does, whether it is good or bad, God can overrule economic situations in your personal favor. I can think of two persons in the Bible, whom God overruled the then current bad economic situation of the land, in their favor - the widow of 2 Kings 4:1-7 and the widow of 1 Kings 17:1-16. In both of these situations, there was a famine in the land of Israel, and God sent economic relief for both of these women. God overruled the tough economic situation in their favor, so that they obtained relief, in spite of the ongoing hardships all around them. God helped these two women, who had no means of support, and nothing but their faith in God. He helped them get through a tough economy, and He will do the same for us today. He will do the same for you. All you have to do is trust Him, and put your faith in Him that He will carry you through these tough times.
On a personal note, I have experienced the blessings of God in my life just from practicing faith-based economics. I remember several years ago I had to give up a very good-paying job, in order to be faithful to the commands of God. To my co-workers, what I had done was foolish, but I willingly took a demotion from my job, so that I would not have to compromise my faith. It has been several years now since that incident, but I can say, thank God I followed my faith! I am now in a much more financially secure job today, and in my job I can practice my faith without hindrance. Not only that, but one of my past fellow co-worker, who had clinged unto her old job, had recently expressed to me a desire to leave her job. I, who once looked so foolish for leaving, am now seen as someone wise. I tell you, when you follow your faith, and trust God to provide for you, He really will!
Economic Crisis
In light of the ongoing economic crisis, and the struggles of many people to survive, I think I will be doing a series of blogs that will help people find inner peace and solutions that will help them survive and thrive through any type of economic turmoil. In the next couple of days, I will be writing posts in a non political, but definitely Biblical fashion, so don't go away - keep in touch. You will be blessed beyond all measure!
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Psalm 63
And now to wrap up this discussion on human sexuality, I will post Psalm 63, from the New Living Translation. Remember folks, God is to be our ultimate Desire in life. He will satisfy every longing, every need, and every desire. "And I will shake all nations, and the Desire of all nations shall come: and I will fill this house with glory, saith the LORD of hosts" (Haggai 2:7).
1 O God, you are my God;
I earnestly search for you.
My soul thirsts for you;
my whole body longs for you
in this parched and weary land
where there is no water.
2 I have seen you in your sanctuary
and gazed upon your power and glory.
3 Your unfailing love is better than life itself;
how I praise you!
4 I will praise you as long as I live,
lifting up my hands to you in prayer.
5 You satisfy me more than the richest feast.
I will praise you with songs of joy.
6 I lie awake thinking of you,
meditating on you through the night.
7 Because you are my helper,
I sing for joy in the shadow of your wings.
8 I cling to you;
your strong right hand holds me securely.
9 But those plotting to destroy me will come to ruin.
They will go down into the depths of the earth.
10 They will die by the sword
and become the food of jackals.
11 But the king will rejoice in God.
All who trust in him will praise him,
while liars will be silenced.
(Psalm 63, New Living Translation )
1 O God, you are my God;
I earnestly search for you.
My soul thirsts for you;
my whole body longs for you
in this parched and weary land
where there is no water.
2 I have seen you in your sanctuary
and gazed upon your power and glory.
3 Your unfailing love is better than life itself;
how I praise you!
4 I will praise you as long as I live,
lifting up my hands to you in prayer.
5 You satisfy me more than the richest feast.
I will praise you with songs of joy.
6 I lie awake thinking of you,
meditating on you through the night.
7 Because you are my helper,
I sing for joy in the shadow of your wings.
8 I cling to you;
your strong right hand holds me securely.
9 But those plotting to destroy me will come to ruin.
They will go down into the depths of the earth.
10 They will die by the sword
and become the food of jackals.
11 But the king will rejoice in God.
All who trust in him will praise him,
while liars will be silenced.
(Psalm 63, New Living Translation )
Friday, November 6, 2009
Myth #4: Sex is Licit for Post-Menopausal Women Only if They Are Open to the Possibility That Pregnancy Might Occur
The idea of grandma and grandpa having sex in nursing homes gets a reaction of ugh! from many people, yet it is precisely this vision of sex in old age that the above myth seeks to control. I have found that among the sex for procreation only crowd that some believe that sex should stop once a woman is beyond childbearing years. Others believe that sex in the post menopausal years is good, only if the couple is open to the idea that God might work a miracle to cause pregnancy. We can see from this myth how people have taken what God has not forbidden and made a prohibition out of it. Then, in order to wiggle themselves out of the trap and snare they have created for themselves, they come up with this "open to life" option which in their minds make sex in the postmenopausal years licit. When I read and hear these wranglings, I just quietly laugh within myself, because nothing in scripture stops post menopausal women from engaging in sex - nothing!
Elizabeth and Zacharias, the parents of John the Baptist, were having sex in their old age, well past menopause, without giving any thought to the possibility that Elizabeth could get pregnant. I know this is so because the Bible says that Elizabeth was barren, and they were both very old.
"And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. And they had no child, because that Elisabeth was barren, and they both were now well stricken in years (Luke 1:6-7)."
God wanted to bless their sexual union with a son, and so God sent the angel Gabriel with the message that Elizabeth would become pregnant. Zecharias totally disbelieved Gabriel because both he and his wife were well past childbearing age. We read, "And Zacharias said unto the angel, Whereby shall I know this? for I am an old man, and my wife well stricken in years (Luke 1:18). Because of his disbelief, Zecharias was struck dumb by God. It says here:
"And the angel answering said unto him, I am Gabriel, that stand in the presence of God; and am sent to speak unto thee, and to shew thee these glad tidings. And, behold, thou shalt be dumb, and not able to speak, until the day that these things shall be performed, because thou believest not my words, which shall be fulfilled in their season" (Luke 1:19-20).
Was Zecharias commiting a sin when he had sex with his wife even though he did not believe she could get pregnant? Absolutely not! God blessed their union, even though Zecharias was not "open to life" during sex.
Look, unless God personally tells you Himself that you will get pregnant in your post-menopausal years, don't even try to waste time worrying whether or not you have committed a sin by engaging in sex with your spouse without being "open to life." People who preach this "open to life' doctrine are only fooling themselves, because according to the laws of nature, it is impossible for a post menopausal woman to get pregnant without miraculous, divine intervention. To which of us millions/billions of women did God promise children in old age? Was He not the one who created the laws of nature to stop childbearing in the post menopausal years? From what I understand in the Bible, God does not just perform a miracle for the sake of performing miracles, in order to please our whims and fancies. He always perform a miracle for a divine purpose, and in the case of Elizabeth and Zecharias, it was to make them the parents of the forerunner of the Messiah, Jesus Christ.
Let me conclude by saying that we do not have to worry at all if grandma and grandpa are still enjoying sex. As long as they are physically able, and are healthy enough to enjoy it, then they should go right ahead! God's word gives them permission.
Elizabeth and Zacharias, the parents of John the Baptist, were having sex in their old age, well past menopause, without giving any thought to the possibility that Elizabeth could get pregnant. I know this is so because the Bible says that Elizabeth was barren, and they were both very old.
"And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. And they had no child, because that Elisabeth was barren, and they both were now well stricken in years (Luke 1:6-7)."
God wanted to bless their sexual union with a son, and so God sent the angel Gabriel with the message that Elizabeth would become pregnant. Zecharias totally disbelieved Gabriel because both he and his wife were well past childbearing age. We read, "And Zacharias said unto the angel, Whereby shall I know this? for I am an old man, and my wife well stricken in years (Luke 1:18). Because of his disbelief, Zecharias was struck dumb by God. It says here:
"And the angel answering said unto him, I am Gabriel, that stand in the presence of God; and am sent to speak unto thee, and to shew thee these glad tidings. And, behold, thou shalt be dumb, and not able to speak, until the day that these things shall be performed, because thou believest not my words, which shall be fulfilled in their season" (Luke 1:19-20).
Was Zecharias commiting a sin when he had sex with his wife even though he did not believe she could get pregnant? Absolutely not! God blessed their union, even though Zecharias was not "open to life" during sex.
Look, unless God personally tells you Himself that you will get pregnant in your post-menopausal years, don't even try to waste time worrying whether or not you have committed a sin by engaging in sex with your spouse without being "open to life." People who preach this "open to life' doctrine are only fooling themselves, because according to the laws of nature, it is impossible for a post menopausal woman to get pregnant without miraculous, divine intervention. To which of us millions/billions of women did God promise children in old age? Was He not the one who created the laws of nature to stop childbearing in the post menopausal years? From what I understand in the Bible, God does not just perform a miracle for the sake of performing miracles, in order to please our whims and fancies. He always perform a miracle for a divine purpose, and in the case of Elizabeth and Zecharias, it was to make them the parents of the forerunner of the Messiah, Jesus Christ.
Let me conclude by saying that we do not have to worry at all if grandma and grandpa are still enjoying sex. As long as they are physically able, and are healthy enough to enjoy it, then they should go right ahead! God's word gives them permission.
Monday, November 2, 2009
Sacred Reproduction
I would now like to interject in this conversation the concept of sacred reproduction. In my previous posts, I had taken the time to bust myths pertaining to human sexuality, but I would be amiss if I did not deal with reproduction as well. Reproduction is the production of offspring, and is a by-product of sex. The ability to reproduce is a gift from God, and represents a God-given power to bring new life into the world. In the sacred sexuality of the Bible, reproduction is recognized as the "fruit of the womb" or "fruit of the body," and being able to reproduce is seen as a blessing from God (Psalm 127:3; Deuteronomy 28:4).
Like all gifts from God, reproduction can be a power for good in this world, or misused, and become a power for evil. The whole purpose of reproduction in sacred sexuality is to raise godly seed, or offspring for the kingdom of God. In 1 Peter 2:9 we read, "But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light." For the people of God to be a "holy nation" we must therefore raise up godly seed or offspring, who love God and worship God. In his counsel to believers who were married to unbelievers, Paul pointed out that the children from such unions were holy because at least one parent was holy. He says, "For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband: else were your children unclean; but now are they holy" (1 Corinthians 7:14). We are commanded to "bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord" (Ephesians 6:4). In Ezra 9:4 the Jews and their children were described as "holy seed" and in Deuteronomy 7:6, they were described as "an holy people unto the LORD thy God" because God had chosen them to be "a special people unto himself, above all people." They too were expected to bring up godly children for the kingdom of God - children who loved and followed God. By raising up godly children, our reproduction can be a force of good in this world.
Many people however do not view reproduction this way. People reproduce for various reasons that do not include raising godly children. Some of the reasons given for having children include:
1. To fulfill oneself
2. To create a lineage or dynasty
3. To have someone to care for us in our old age
4. To have extra hands to help out around the home or business
5. To become powerful and influential in the community
6. To fulfill an obligation or duty
7. To demonstrate virility
8. To show off one's fertility
Some may see children as an inconvenient reality to incontinence in sexuality, and after the children are conceived, may try to destroy them, either in the womb or outside of the womb when they are born. Therefore it is not surprising when we hear of the numerous cases of child abuse and neglect that is plaguing families and societies around the world. I cannot help but wonder about the many children who live in garbage slums, and in unsanitary conditions around the world, and even here in the States, who are victims of post birth child abuse. Not to mention the numerous abortions performed to cover up sexual indiscretions.
In sacred sexuality, God has given us power over our own bodies, not to do whatever we want with it, but to live responsibly in His sight. He holds us accountable according to the amount of self-control that we exercise over our bodies. Paul says, "But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway" (1 Corinthians 9:27). This self-control also extends to sexuality and reproduction as well, as reproduction involves the use of two bodies to produce a new body. Responsible reproduction is therefore a key principle in godly self-discipline and control. In responsible reproduction, one respects the body as the means through which new life comes to earth. The body becomes the medium through which the creative act of God is carried out. Consequently, anything that is conceived within is loved and cherished as a special blessing from God.
Responsible reproduction also involves taking responsibity for one's sexual actions, and exercising authority and control over one's sexual actions. It involves a sexual consciousness, where a couple can decide whether they want to engage in sexual relations with the intent of reproducing, or engage in sexual relations with the intent not to reproduce. Both decisions involve exercising control over the sex act. Control over one's sexuality is no less a fruit of the Spirit than control over other actions, for the one who exercises self-control in sexual matters, has gained a significant control over reckless and indiscriminate passion.
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires (Galatians 5:22-24).
To conclude, let us love our bodies and honor it as a sacred vessel of love, from which can grow the fruit of love. Let us use that power within our bodies responsibly during the sex act. We need to recognize the sacred responsibility given to us when we reproduce, which is to raise godly children for the kingdom of God, who know God and love God - the Giver of life.
Like all gifts from God, reproduction can be a power for good in this world, or misused, and become a power for evil. The whole purpose of reproduction in sacred sexuality is to raise godly seed, or offspring for the kingdom of God. In 1 Peter 2:9 we read, "But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light." For the people of God to be a "holy nation" we must therefore raise up godly seed or offspring, who love God and worship God. In his counsel to believers who were married to unbelievers, Paul pointed out that the children from such unions were holy because at least one parent was holy. He says, "For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband: else were your children unclean; but now are they holy" (1 Corinthians 7:14). We are commanded to "bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord" (Ephesians 6:4). In Ezra 9:4 the Jews and their children were described as "holy seed" and in Deuteronomy 7:6, they were described as "an holy people unto the LORD thy God" because God had chosen them to be "a special people unto himself, above all people." They too were expected to bring up godly children for the kingdom of God - children who loved and followed God. By raising up godly children, our reproduction can be a force of good in this world.
Many people however do not view reproduction this way. People reproduce for various reasons that do not include raising godly children. Some of the reasons given for having children include:
1. To fulfill oneself
2. To create a lineage or dynasty
3. To have someone to care for us in our old age
4. To have extra hands to help out around the home or business
5. To become powerful and influential in the community
6. To fulfill an obligation or duty
7. To demonstrate virility
8. To show off one's fertility
Some may see children as an inconvenient reality to incontinence in sexuality, and after the children are conceived, may try to destroy them, either in the womb or outside of the womb when they are born. Therefore it is not surprising when we hear of the numerous cases of child abuse and neglect that is plaguing families and societies around the world. I cannot help but wonder about the many children who live in garbage slums, and in unsanitary conditions around the world, and even here in the States, who are victims of post birth child abuse. Not to mention the numerous abortions performed to cover up sexual indiscretions.
In sacred sexuality, God has given us power over our own bodies, not to do whatever we want with it, but to live responsibly in His sight. He holds us accountable according to the amount of self-control that we exercise over our bodies. Paul says, "But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway" (1 Corinthians 9:27). This self-control also extends to sexuality and reproduction as well, as reproduction involves the use of two bodies to produce a new body. Responsible reproduction is therefore a key principle in godly self-discipline and control. In responsible reproduction, one respects the body as the means through which new life comes to earth. The body becomes the medium through which the creative act of God is carried out. Consequently, anything that is conceived within is loved and cherished as a special blessing from God.
Responsible reproduction also involves taking responsibity for one's sexual actions, and exercising authority and control over one's sexual actions. It involves a sexual consciousness, where a couple can decide whether they want to engage in sexual relations with the intent of reproducing, or engage in sexual relations with the intent not to reproduce. Both decisions involve exercising control over the sex act. Control over one's sexuality is no less a fruit of the Spirit than control over other actions, for the one who exercises self-control in sexual matters, has gained a significant control over reckless and indiscriminate passion.
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires (Galatians 5:22-24).
To conclude, let us love our bodies and honor it as a sacred vessel of love, from which can grow the fruit of love. Let us use that power within our bodies responsibly during the sex act. We need to recognize the sacred responsibility given to us when we reproduce, which is to raise godly children for the kingdom of God, who know God and love God - the Giver of life.
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Myth #3: Sex for Pleasure Only is Wrong
Continuing in my series of busting myths about human sexuality, I would now like to deal with whether sex can be engaged in just for pleasure, without procreation. Many people seem to be of the belief that sex is only for reproduction, and that it is a sin to engage in sex for pleasure only. First, I would like to ask them where they found such a doctrine in the Bible, because it is not there! On the contrary, the Bible does endorse sex for pleasure and has dedicated a whole book to that, called Songs of Solomon.
Seeing that marriage is a reflection of our heavenly marriage to Christ, then sex must also have a spiritual counterpart in our spiritual relation with Christ. Going back to Matthew 19 (oh how I love this chapter!), Jesus gave a resounding affirmation of the sex act when He said:
"And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female, And said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh? Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder" (Matthew 19:4-6).
The sex act is described as the physical union between a man and woman, where two bodies join together and become "one flesh." No one should go and try to destroy this unity which God has ordained. Sex is a sacred, God-ordained act, "what therefore God hath joined together, let no man put asunder" (vs. 6).
So how is it that we now have people trying to tell us when a husband and wife should and should not have sex? Where did they get their doctrine that sex is only for procreation? Absolutely nothing in scripture speaks of this. As a matter of fact, the Bible encourages us to have sex as often as we want, and to take pleasure in it. The only restriction is when a woman is having her period, because of sanitary hazards, and also some time after childbirth so her body can recover (Leviticus 15:19; Leviticus 12:2-6). The following are scriptures that endorse sex for pleasure. Emphasis is supplied where appropriate.
"Let thy fountain be blessed: and rejoice with the wife of thy youth. Let her be as the loving hind and pleasant roe; let her breasts satisfy thee at all times; and be thou ravished always with her love" (Proverbs 5:18-19).
"How fair is thy love, my sister, my spouse! how much better is thy love than wine! and the smell of thine ointments than all spices!" (Song of Solomon 4:10).
His mouth is most sweet: yea, he is altogether lovely. This is my beloved, and this is my friend, O daughters of Jerusalem" (Song of Solomon 5:16).
"I am my beloved's, and his desire is toward me. Come, my beloved, let us go forth into the field; let us lodge in the villages. Let us get up early to the vineyards; let us see if the vine flourish, whether the tender grape appear, and the pomegranates bud forth: there will I give thee my loves" (Song of Solomon 7:10-12).
"The husband should fulfill his wife’s sexual needs, and the wife should fulfill her husband’s needs. The wife gives authority over her body to her husband, and the husband gives authority over his body to his wife. Do not deprive each other of sexual relations, unless you both agree to refrain from sexual intimacy for a limited time so you can give yourselves more completely to prayer. Afterward, you should come together again so that Satan won’t be able to tempt you because of your lack of self-control" ( 1 Corinthians 7:3-5, NLT).
The scriptures speak for themselves. I have yet to find a scripture that tells me that sex purely for pleasure is wrong.
Seeing that marriage is a reflection of our heavenly marriage to Christ, then sex must also have a spiritual counterpart in our spiritual relation with Christ. Going back to Matthew 19 (oh how I love this chapter!), Jesus gave a resounding affirmation of the sex act when He said:
"And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female, And said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh? Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder" (Matthew 19:4-6).
The sex act is described as the physical union between a man and woman, where two bodies join together and become "one flesh." No one should go and try to destroy this unity which God has ordained. Sex is a sacred, God-ordained act, "what therefore God hath joined together, let no man put asunder" (vs. 6).
So how is it that we now have people trying to tell us when a husband and wife should and should not have sex? Where did they get their doctrine that sex is only for procreation? Absolutely nothing in scripture speaks of this. As a matter of fact, the Bible encourages us to have sex as often as we want, and to take pleasure in it. The only restriction is when a woman is having her period, because of sanitary hazards, and also some time after childbirth so her body can recover (Leviticus 15:19; Leviticus 12:2-6). The following are scriptures that endorse sex for pleasure. Emphasis is supplied where appropriate.
"Let thy fountain be blessed: and rejoice with the wife of thy youth. Let her be as the loving hind and pleasant roe; let her breasts satisfy thee at all times; and be thou ravished always with her love" (Proverbs 5:18-19).
"How fair is thy love, my sister, my spouse! how much better is thy love than wine! and the smell of thine ointments than all spices!" (Song of Solomon 4:10).
His mouth is most sweet: yea, he is altogether lovely. This is my beloved, and this is my friend, O daughters of Jerusalem" (Song of Solomon 5:16).
"I am my beloved's, and his desire is toward me. Come, my beloved, let us go forth into the field; let us lodge in the villages. Let us get up early to the vineyards; let us see if the vine flourish, whether the tender grape appear, and the pomegranates bud forth: there will I give thee my loves" (Song of Solomon 7:10-12).
"The husband should fulfill his wife’s sexual needs, and the wife should fulfill her husband’s needs. The wife gives authority over her body to her husband, and the husband gives authority over his body to his wife. Do not deprive each other of sexual relations, unless you both agree to refrain from sexual intimacy for a limited time so you can give yourselves more completely to prayer. Afterward, you should come together again so that Satan won’t be able to tempt you because of your lack of self-control" ( 1 Corinthians 7:3-5, NLT).
The scriptures speak for themselves. I have yet to find a scripture that tells me that sex purely for pleasure is wrong.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Myth #2: The Practice of Celibacy is Endorsed By Scripture
Today I am going to touch on a very controversial topic, which is the question of celibacy. Is celibacy God's ideal? Does the Bible teach celibacy and endorses it? The answer to those questions is a resounding NO!
Let me now go into the explanation and give the Biblical facts.
Celibacy by definition is the disavowal of marriage, thus celibate persons have chosen not to marry. Nothing in this definition speaks to abstinence, and so therefore a celibate person can be sexually active outside of marriage. Usually however, religious celibates, also take vows of chastity, where they promise to abstain from sex as well. Please see http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/celibacy. Many people have used the passage in Matthew 19:12 to teach that Jesus endorses celibacy, and we read:
For there are some eunuchs, which were so born from their mother's womb: and there are some eunuchs, which were made eunuchs of men: and there be eunuchs, which have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven's sake. He that is able to receive it, let him receive it (Matthew 19:12).
Some have said that Jesus was teaching celibacy here, however if you read the preceding two verses, you will see that Jesus was in fact not teaching celibacy, but disagreeing with it on principle. Jesus was having a discussion with the Pharisees about marriage and divorce, and after the discussion His disciples said, "If the case of the man be so with his wife, it is not good to marry" (vs. 10). To which Jesus replied, " All men cannot receive this saying, save they to whom it is given" (vs. 11). What Jesus was saying was that only certain people can be celibate, and he named three catergories of people, who were all eunuchs! In verse 12 He named:
The practice of making people take vows of celibacy is unnatural. A normal person with normal libido should not swear off sex. They are putting themselves in danger of falling into sin and sexual immorality. A couple months ago, a former Catholic priest was ousted because he was found to be in a relationship with a woman. He could not practice as a Catholic priest and still keep his girlfriend, therefore he left the Catholic priesthood and became an Episcopalian priest. For more on Father Cutie please read http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,1896581,00.html . Nowhere in the Bible does God encourage His people to be celibate. He may encourage abstinence for short periods of time such as for "prayer and fasting" but He then says, "Come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency" (1 Corinthians 7:5). This is tantamount to a command to have sex, and lots of it.
Some have even tried to use 1 Corinthians 7:8 to justify celibacy, where Paul says, "I say therefore to the unmarried and widows, it is good for them if they abide even as I." They assume that Paul was encouraging unmarried people and widows to remain single because he was single. Nothing is further from the truth! Paul was not encouraging singleness in this verse, because he himself was married! We read in Eusebius Ecclesiastical History that Paul was married, but did not take his wife along with him on missionary trips. We also read in 1 Corithians 9: 5 where Paul asked the Corinthian church: "Don’t we have the right to bring a Christian wife with us as the other apostles and the Lord’s brothers do, and as Peter does?" (NLT). Why would Paul ask about taking his wife with him if he did not have a wife! We see in Phillipians 4:3 where Paul references his wife by calling her his "true partner" in NLT ( or "true yoke-fellow" in KJV). Starting from verse 2 we read, "Now I appeal to Euodia and Syntyche. Please, because you belong to the Lord, settle your disagreement. And I ask you, my true partner to help these two women, for they worked hard with me in telling others the Good News. " (Phillipians 4:2-3, NLT). Here Paul was asking his wife to negotiate a quarrel between two women - Euodia and Syntyche. Paul was therefore not teaching that the unmarried and widows should be celibate, but that they should practice abstinence due to lack of a mate, just as he had to practice abstinence being away from his wife. There is no reason to believe that Paul did not resume normal relations with his wife when he went home to see his wife.
So what about those spiritual eunuchs? So what about them. As was said before, spiritual eunuchs have low sex drive because of a sense of spiritual fulfillment and wholeness without a sexual partner. Generally speaking, spiritual eunuchs are normal people with normal libido but due to their high level of spiritual involvement in the pursuit of spiritual things, they may temporarily have a low sex drive or low libido. They are so caught up in the things of God, that sex and marriage becomes the least of their concerns. Such persons are actually practicing a form of sacred sexuality, where God, and not a person gives them complete fulfillment. God fills their hearts with joy, peace, happiness, ectasy, and love that even surpasses the love of a spouse. For those unable to find a suitable spouse, this condition of being a spiritual eunuch may be permanent. For those who are able to find a suitable spouse, this condition may be temporary, but they will continue to receive God's love either directly, or indirectly through their spouse. "For the Scriptures say, 'The two are united into one.' But the person who is joined to the Lord is one spirit with him ( 1 Corinthians 6:16b-17, NLT). As Christians we are all married to our heavenly Spouse, Jesus Christ. He is our Spouse, and earthly marriages are just a reflection of our marriage to Him. So whether we are married to someone, or single, we can all enjoy the privileges of being married to our heavenly Spouse.
So we can see that celibacy is totally unbiblical, but is a condition that can only be maintained by eunuchs! Spiritual eunuchs are really not celibate at all, but are practitioners of sacred sexuality, where God fills their lives with joy and ectasy, and a love that far surpasses the love of a spouse.
ADDENDUM: Jesus said, "and there be eunuchs, which have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven's sake" in Matthew 19:12. We can also include in this category people who have voluntarily undergone procedures to decrease their sex drive, as a way of controlling their sex drive and to maintain sexual purity. I can think of pedophiles, who have a high sex drive for children, and who do not respond to behavior management/training, that might undergo castration. People who do this are opting for entering into eternal life "maimed" than to go to hell with all their body parts intact (Mark (9:43). Personally, I do not endorse castration, because I believe the Holy Spirit has the power the change the sexual desires of the sexually depraved. Unfortunately, not everyone knows how to access the power of the Holy Spirit.
Let me now go into the explanation and give the Biblical facts.
Celibacy by definition is the disavowal of marriage, thus celibate persons have chosen not to marry. Nothing in this definition speaks to abstinence, and so therefore a celibate person can be sexually active outside of marriage. Usually however, religious celibates, also take vows of chastity, where they promise to abstain from sex as well. Please see http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/celibacy. Many people have used the passage in Matthew 19:12 to teach that Jesus endorses celibacy, and we read:
For there are some eunuchs, which were so born from their mother's womb: and there are some eunuchs, which were made eunuchs of men: and there be eunuchs, which have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven's sake. He that is able to receive it, let him receive it (Matthew 19:12).
Some have said that Jesus was teaching celibacy here, however if you read the preceding two verses, you will see that Jesus was in fact not teaching celibacy, but disagreeing with it on principle. Jesus was having a discussion with the Pharisees about marriage and divorce, and after the discussion His disciples said, "If the case of the man be so with his wife, it is not good to marry" (vs. 10). To which Jesus replied, " All men cannot receive this saying, save they to whom it is given" (vs. 11). What Jesus was saying was that only certain people can be celibate, and he named three catergories of people, who were all eunuchs! In verse 12 He named:
- Natural-born eunuchs: People born with low lido/sex drive
- Surgically induced enuchs: People who were castrated and hence had low libido/sex drive, and
- Spiritual enuchs: People who have lost the desire for sex due to a sense of spiritual fulfillment and wholeness.
The practice of making people take vows of celibacy is unnatural. A normal person with normal libido should not swear off sex. They are putting themselves in danger of falling into sin and sexual immorality. A couple months ago, a former Catholic priest was ousted because he was found to be in a relationship with a woman. He could not practice as a Catholic priest and still keep his girlfriend, therefore he left the Catholic priesthood and became an Episcopalian priest. For more on Father Cutie please read http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,1896581,00.html . Nowhere in the Bible does God encourage His people to be celibate. He may encourage abstinence for short periods of time such as for "prayer and fasting" but He then says, "Come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency" (1 Corinthians 7:5). This is tantamount to a command to have sex, and lots of it.
Some have even tried to use 1 Corinthians 7:8 to justify celibacy, where Paul says, "I say therefore to the unmarried and widows, it is good for them if they abide even as I." They assume that Paul was encouraging unmarried people and widows to remain single because he was single. Nothing is further from the truth! Paul was not encouraging singleness in this verse, because he himself was married! We read in Eusebius Ecclesiastical History that Paul was married, but did not take his wife along with him on missionary trips. We also read in 1 Corithians 9: 5 where Paul asked the Corinthian church: "Don’t we have the right to bring a Christian wife with us as the other apostles and the Lord’s brothers do, and as Peter does?" (NLT). Why would Paul ask about taking his wife with him if he did not have a wife! We see in Phillipians 4:3 where Paul references his wife by calling her his "true partner" in NLT ( or "true yoke-fellow" in KJV). Starting from verse 2 we read, "Now I appeal to Euodia and Syntyche. Please, because you belong to the Lord, settle your disagreement. And I ask you, my true partner to help these two women, for they worked hard with me in telling others the Good News. " (Phillipians 4:2-3, NLT). Here Paul was asking his wife to negotiate a quarrel between two women - Euodia and Syntyche. Paul was therefore not teaching that the unmarried and widows should be celibate, but that they should practice abstinence due to lack of a mate, just as he had to practice abstinence being away from his wife. There is no reason to believe that Paul did not resume normal relations with his wife when he went home to see his wife.
So what about those spiritual eunuchs? So what about them. As was said before, spiritual eunuchs have low sex drive because of a sense of spiritual fulfillment and wholeness without a sexual partner. Generally speaking, spiritual eunuchs are normal people with normal libido but due to their high level of spiritual involvement in the pursuit of spiritual things, they may temporarily have a low sex drive or low libido. They are so caught up in the things of God, that sex and marriage becomes the least of their concerns. Such persons are actually practicing a form of sacred sexuality, where God, and not a person gives them complete fulfillment. God fills their hearts with joy, peace, happiness, ectasy, and love that even surpasses the love of a spouse. For those unable to find a suitable spouse, this condition of being a spiritual eunuch may be permanent. For those who are able to find a suitable spouse, this condition may be temporary, but they will continue to receive God's love either directly, or indirectly through their spouse. "For the Scriptures say, 'The two are united into one.' But the person who is joined to the Lord is one spirit with him ( 1 Corinthians 6:16b-17, NLT). As Christians we are all married to our heavenly Spouse, Jesus Christ. He is our Spouse, and earthly marriages are just a reflection of our marriage to Him. So whether we are married to someone, or single, we can all enjoy the privileges of being married to our heavenly Spouse.
So we can see that celibacy is totally unbiblical, but is a condition that can only be maintained by eunuchs! Spiritual eunuchs are really not celibate at all, but are practitioners of sacred sexuality, where God fills their lives with joy and ectasy, and a love that far surpasses the love of a spouse.
ADDENDUM: Jesus said, "and there be eunuchs, which have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven's sake" in Matthew 19:12. We can also include in this category people who have voluntarily undergone procedures to decrease their sex drive, as a way of controlling their sex drive and to maintain sexual purity. I can think of pedophiles, who have a high sex drive for children, and who do not respond to behavior management/training, that might undergo castration. People who do this are opting for entering into eternal life "maimed" than to go to hell with all their body parts intact (Mark (9:43). Personally, I do not endorse castration, because I believe the Holy Spirit has the power the change the sexual desires of the sexually depraved. Unfortunately, not everyone knows how to access the power of the Holy Spirit.
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Controlling Sexual Desire
Let me just insert in this discussion the aspect of controlling our sexual desires. In my previous post I stated that sexual desire is a God-given, natural desire, that is necessary for us to seek out a mate for the purpose of marriage. I just want to delve a little further into sexual desire and how it can turn into lust, which is what we are to avoid.
As stated before, lust is an evil desire or a desire for something which we have no right to have. Sex is something good given to us by God and is therefore not evil; but sex with someone we have no right to be having sex with is wrong. The question is, how do we control our sexual desires so that it does not turn into lust? That question is best answered by using food as an analogy. Food was created by God to satisfy our need for nutrition. Hunger, which creates a desire for food, is the driving force that motivates us to seek food. Ideally, we eat when we are hungry. Having a desire for food is not wrong when we are hungry, but having a desire for food when we are not hungry is not good. Desiring food when we are not hungry is called greed (food cravings), and when we eat when we are not hungry, it is called gluttony. I know many of us have been guilty of gluttony, myself included, but this example shows you how a normal desire such as hunger for food can become abnormal, if we do not properly control our desire for food. It is the same way with sexual desire and lust. Sexual desire is a normal desire, but when our sexual desire becomes the overriding factor in our dating relationships, and in our thoughts with real or imaginary persons, including pornography, then we have stepped over the line. Some people are so 'horny' that they cannot even bear to be in the same room with a member of the opposite sex without thinking sexual thoughts towards that person. Their desire is not really for that person. Their desire is really for sex, and they are going to get some, no matter with whom. When you find that your desire is for sex alone that does not include the well-being of the other person, then you know that you have crossed the line from sexual desire to lust.
Here is what God wants. He wants us our desire for the well-being of the other person to override and control our actions and desires, even our sexual desires. We have to learn how to bring our bodies under subjection to the will of the mind through the power of God (1 Corinthians 9:27). We must learn how to hold back on our sexual desires and deny ourselves, so that true love will grow. Here is what Paul had to say about controlling our sexual desires during courtship, "Nevertheless he that standeth stedfast in his heart, having no necessity, but hath power over his own will, and hath so decreed in his heart that he will keep his virgin, doeth well (1 Corinthians 7:37). If a man with a girlfriend (virgin) exercises self-control over his own will to be sexually active with his girlfriend, then he is doing well! Sounds impossible in this day and age, but with God all things are possible. The apostle John was in just such a relationship with a woman, where he had to control his sexual desires for the sake of true love. We read in 2 John 1, The elder unto the elect lady and her children, whom I love in the truth; and not I only, but also all they that have known the truth. In this verse, John expresses a general love for this lady and her children that is non sexual. Further in this epistle however, he makes a date to see the woman, so that their "joy may be full." He says, Having many things to write unto you, I would not write with paper and ink: but I trust to come unto you, and speak face to face, that our joy may be full (2 John 12). It is quite obvious that John was writing a personal letter to a lady friend, whose company gave him great joy and love.
Are you sexually attracted to someone? Ask God to help you to see the person for who he/she is and not for what you can possibly get from that person to satisfy your own sexual desires. Meditate on God's goodness and love, and show that to others. Show kindness and affection where appropriate. Consult God's law to see which relationships are sanctioned by scripture, and which are considered unholy. Being a good, trustworthy, and caring friend to your potential mate will go a long way to increase your sexual desire for that person, if that is the right person for you. If that person is not the right person, your sexual desire will decrease - trust me on this one! The sexual desire therefore becomes a monitor of how the relationship is progressing. Increased love and steady sexual desire - good for marriage. Increased love but decreasing sexual desire, with the person becoming more like a sibling or friend - bad for marriage. Decreased love and disliking the person - bad for marriage. So we see that sexual desire coupled with love is the basis for marriage. Remember, marriage is about both physical and spiritual union. Physical union without spiritual union is incomplete. Spiritual union without physical union is also incomplete. The physical union is what is needed to catapult the marriage relationship to a higher spiritual plane, which is not possible when couples are celibate.
In conclusion, let us not be afraid to use our sexual desires appropriately when we are in a non married relationship. We need to learn how to control them so that love can grow and deepen, before we express those sexual desires physically in marriage through sex.
I will continue debunking more myths about human sexuality in my next set of posts. My next post will be Myth #2: The Practice of Celibacy Is Endorsed By Scripture.
As stated before, lust is an evil desire or a desire for something which we have no right to have. Sex is something good given to us by God and is therefore not evil; but sex with someone we have no right to be having sex with is wrong. The question is, how do we control our sexual desires so that it does not turn into lust? That question is best answered by using food as an analogy. Food was created by God to satisfy our need for nutrition. Hunger, which creates a desire for food, is the driving force that motivates us to seek food. Ideally, we eat when we are hungry. Having a desire for food is not wrong when we are hungry, but having a desire for food when we are not hungry is not good. Desiring food when we are not hungry is called greed (food cravings), and when we eat when we are not hungry, it is called gluttony. I know many of us have been guilty of gluttony, myself included, but this example shows you how a normal desire such as hunger for food can become abnormal, if we do not properly control our desire for food. It is the same way with sexual desire and lust. Sexual desire is a normal desire, but when our sexual desire becomes the overriding factor in our dating relationships, and in our thoughts with real or imaginary persons, including pornography, then we have stepped over the line. Some people are so 'horny' that they cannot even bear to be in the same room with a member of the opposite sex without thinking sexual thoughts towards that person. Their desire is not really for that person. Their desire is really for sex, and they are going to get some, no matter with whom. When you find that your desire is for sex alone that does not include the well-being of the other person, then you know that you have crossed the line from sexual desire to lust.
Here is what God wants. He wants us our desire for the well-being of the other person to override and control our actions and desires, even our sexual desires. We have to learn how to bring our bodies under subjection to the will of the mind through the power of God (1 Corinthians 9:27). We must learn how to hold back on our sexual desires and deny ourselves, so that true love will grow. Here is what Paul had to say about controlling our sexual desires during courtship, "Nevertheless he that standeth stedfast in his heart, having no necessity, but hath power over his own will, and hath so decreed in his heart that he will keep his virgin, doeth well (1 Corinthians 7:37). If a man with a girlfriend (virgin) exercises self-control over his own will to be sexually active with his girlfriend, then he is doing well! Sounds impossible in this day and age, but with God all things are possible. The apostle John was in just such a relationship with a woman, where he had to control his sexual desires for the sake of true love. We read in 2 John 1, The elder unto the elect lady and her children, whom I love in the truth; and not I only, but also all they that have known the truth. In this verse, John expresses a general love for this lady and her children that is non sexual. Further in this epistle however, he makes a date to see the woman, so that their "joy may be full." He says, Having many things to write unto you, I would not write with paper and ink: but I trust to come unto you, and speak face to face, that our joy may be full (2 John 12). It is quite obvious that John was writing a personal letter to a lady friend, whose company gave him great joy and love.
Are you sexually attracted to someone? Ask God to help you to see the person for who he/she is and not for what you can possibly get from that person to satisfy your own sexual desires. Meditate on God's goodness and love, and show that to others. Show kindness and affection where appropriate. Consult God's law to see which relationships are sanctioned by scripture, and which are considered unholy. Being a good, trustworthy, and caring friend to your potential mate will go a long way to increase your sexual desire for that person, if that is the right person for you. If that person is not the right person, your sexual desire will decrease - trust me on this one! The sexual desire therefore becomes a monitor of how the relationship is progressing. Increased love and steady sexual desire - good for marriage. Increased love but decreasing sexual desire, with the person becoming more like a sibling or friend - bad for marriage. Decreased love and disliking the person - bad for marriage. So we see that sexual desire coupled with love is the basis for marriage. Remember, marriage is about both physical and spiritual union. Physical union without spiritual union is incomplete. Spiritual union without physical union is also incomplete. The physical union is what is needed to catapult the marriage relationship to a higher spiritual plane, which is not possible when couples are celibate.
In conclusion, let us not be afraid to use our sexual desires appropriately when we are in a non married relationship. We need to learn how to control them so that love can grow and deepen, before we express those sexual desires physically in marriage through sex.
I will continue debunking more myths about human sexuality in my next set of posts. My next post will be Myth #2: The Practice of Celibacy Is Endorsed By Scripture.
Friday, October 23, 2009
Myth # 1 - Lust is the Same as Sexual Desire
Today I start busting myths pertaining to human sexuality that are so prevelant in the church, and that keeps us in bondage, and prevents us from enjoying the freedom we have in Christ. Many of the myths which I will explore are man-made doctrines designed to keep the body of Christ under the control of the whims of men, instead of the control of God. By following these man-made doctrines, many have actually erred from the faith, and have fallen into snares and traps designed to entangle their souls in sin. Please read carefully, and check out the facts which I will present in this series of posts, and see whether the views expressed here stand up to the word of God. Do not just take my word for it, but search for yourselves to find the truth.
The first myth I am going to deal with is the one about sexual desire being the same as lust. The sex drive, or sexual desire is a natural, God-given desire that our Creator has given us to start the process of seeking out a mate for marriage. Without this sex drive, many of us would not even bother. I am sure many of you know of people who have low libido. These people show absolutely no interest in members of the opposite sex, because they have a low sex drive. The Bible refers to such people as eunuchs. In Matthew 19:12, Jesus describes three types of eunuchs:
For there are some eunuchs, which were so born from their mother's womb: and there are some eunuchs, which were made eunuchs of men: and there be eunuchs, which have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven's sake.
Eunuchs are people with low sex drive who were either born that way or became eunuchs through surgical castration. Removal of the testicles in males results in low sex drive and hence diminished to non-existent desire for sex. Such people have no sexual desire and as such are not attracted to the opposite sex, and therefore will not seek out a mate for marriage. For more informaton on eunuchs please see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eunuch_(court_official).
Since sexual desire is God-given, and serves the purpose of motivating us to seek out a mate for marriage, then why is it that sexual desire is so greatly condemned and viewed with suspicion within the Christian community? The reason why sexual desire is viewed with suspicion is that many mistake sexual desire to be the same as lust. I remember once reading an article online in a Christian forum and the writer expressed frustration that she practices abstinence but she still has a problem with lust. I feel sorry for her because she is probably confusing sexual desire with lust, or she does have a problem with lust and do not how to deal with it. One of the most liberating things about knowing the difference between sexual desire and lust is that if frees you from the guilt of sin, and channels your behavior into that which is moral and right.
By definition, lust is an evil desire or desiring something which you have no right to have, and is also known as covetousness. According to James 1:14-15, lust is something that tempts and entices. It says, But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. In the decalogue as well, we are commanded to not covet (lust) after that which belongs to others, whether it be someone else's wife, or possessions. We are commanded, Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbour's (Exodus 20:17). Lust will cause you to want things that you should not have such as sexual relations with someone else's spouse, or with an underage child. It will cause you to commit sexually immoral acts to fulfill your sexual desires. Jesus says, But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart (Matthew 5:28). Lust drives you to mentally take delight in that which is wrong, and make you crave for it. Lust causes you crave for things that are wrong for you and wrong for others, and causes you to sin against God. Lust is therefore a desire for something you should not have.
Since God is the creator of sex, and sex is His gift to us, then the desire to have sex is not wrong. What is wrong is the desire to have it with someone you should not be having it with. That is the sin which is sexually immoral. I will use the animal world as an example of how God programs sexual desire within nature itself for a purpose. In animals, sexual desire peaks in mating season, when the female is fertile. It is then and only then that the males sexually desire the females. This sexual desire causes the males to seek out a female for copulation/mating which hopefully should result in pregnancy. Without this sexual desire, the males would not seek out females, and mating would not occur. In humans, our sexual desires do not depend upon any season. We have those desires whether the female is fertile or not. Those desires are essential for us to seek out members of the opposite sex for marriage with the purpose of mating. No sexual desire therefore means no seeking for a mate, and no seeking for a mate means no marriages. No mating, then no children. The world would quickly become a desolate and empty place.
Sexual desire is therefore A GOOD THING. What we need to do is control it in such a way that it motivates us to get to know a person first, before we enter into marriage, and by "know a person" I mean get to know that person's character, attitudes, feelings, and longings. That initial attraction is what draws us to others where we would want to get to know them. Unfortunately, many commit their bodies to total strangers to satisfy their sexual desires before knowing such persons. Their sexual desires cause them to go after sex instead of going after the person. Going after sex is not the thing, but going after the person is what God wants. The sexual desire is the motivating factor that drives us to want to know more about that person, so that love can grow and develop in the relationship. Once love has grown, the next natural step is sexual intimacy that fulfills a spiritual union - marriage. Here is what the apostle Paul, of all persons, says about dating relationships!
But if any man think that he behaveth himself uncomely toward his virgin, if she pass the flower of her age, and need so require, let him do what he will, he sinneth not: let them marry (1 Corinthians 7:36).
Let me translate here: If a man has a girlfriend (virgin) and starts to make sexual advances to her, and if she is of legal age to marry, then he has not sinned by marrying her. From this example we can see that sexual desire is the motivating force which drives the man to want to marry his virgin (girlfriend). If he had no sexual desire towards her, then he would not even think of marrying her. Desire is therefore needed to get the ball rolling towards marriage.
In conclusion then, we can safely say that sexual desire is not wrong, but is good, and is not the same as lust. Lust is the desire for something evil or for something which is wrong for us to have. God gave us sexual desires so that we would be motivated to find a mate, for the purpose of marriage.
ADDENDUM AND WORD OF WARNING: Many modern translations of the Bible translate the word lust as desire. THIS IS AN INCORRECT OR INACCURATE TRANSLATION OF THE WORD. The word lust denotes an evil desire or craving, while the word desire denotes a longing for something that could either be good or bad.
The first myth I am going to deal with is the one about sexual desire being the same as lust. The sex drive, or sexual desire is a natural, God-given desire that our Creator has given us to start the process of seeking out a mate for marriage. Without this sex drive, many of us would not even bother. I am sure many of you know of people who have low libido. These people show absolutely no interest in members of the opposite sex, because they have a low sex drive. The Bible refers to such people as eunuchs. In Matthew 19:12, Jesus describes three types of eunuchs:
For there are some eunuchs, which were so born from their mother's womb: and there are some eunuchs, which were made eunuchs of men: and there be eunuchs, which have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven's sake.
Eunuchs are people with low sex drive who were either born that way or became eunuchs through surgical castration. Removal of the testicles in males results in low sex drive and hence diminished to non-existent desire for sex. Such people have no sexual desire and as such are not attracted to the opposite sex, and therefore will not seek out a mate for marriage. For more informaton on eunuchs please see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eunuch_(court_official).
Since sexual desire is God-given, and serves the purpose of motivating us to seek out a mate for marriage, then why is it that sexual desire is so greatly condemned and viewed with suspicion within the Christian community? The reason why sexual desire is viewed with suspicion is that many mistake sexual desire to be the same as lust. I remember once reading an article online in a Christian forum and the writer expressed frustration that she practices abstinence but she still has a problem with lust. I feel sorry for her because she is probably confusing sexual desire with lust, or she does have a problem with lust and do not how to deal with it. One of the most liberating things about knowing the difference between sexual desire and lust is that if frees you from the guilt of sin, and channels your behavior into that which is moral and right.
By definition, lust is an evil desire or desiring something which you have no right to have, and is also known as covetousness. According to James 1:14-15, lust is something that tempts and entices. It says, But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. In the decalogue as well, we are commanded to not covet (lust) after that which belongs to others, whether it be someone else's wife, or possessions. We are commanded, Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbour's (Exodus 20:17). Lust will cause you to want things that you should not have such as sexual relations with someone else's spouse, or with an underage child. It will cause you to commit sexually immoral acts to fulfill your sexual desires. Jesus says, But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart (Matthew 5:28). Lust drives you to mentally take delight in that which is wrong, and make you crave for it. Lust causes you crave for things that are wrong for you and wrong for others, and causes you to sin against God. Lust is therefore a desire for something you should not have.
Since God is the creator of sex, and sex is His gift to us, then the desire to have sex is not wrong. What is wrong is the desire to have it with someone you should not be having it with. That is the sin which is sexually immoral. I will use the animal world as an example of how God programs sexual desire within nature itself for a purpose. In animals, sexual desire peaks in mating season, when the female is fertile. It is then and only then that the males sexually desire the females. This sexual desire causes the males to seek out a female for copulation/mating which hopefully should result in pregnancy. Without this sexual desire, the males would not seek out females, and mating would not occur. In humans, our sexual desires do not depend upon any season. We have those desires whether the female is fertile or not. Those desires are essential for us to seek out members of the opposite sex for marriage with the purpose of mating. No sexual desire therefore means no seeking for a mate, and no seeking for a mate means no marriages. No mating, then no children. The world would quickly become a desolate and empty place.
Sexual desire is therefore A GOOD THING. What we need to do is control it in such a way that it motivates us to get to know a person first, before we enter into marriage, and by "know a person" I mean get to know that person's character, attitudes, feelings, and longings. That initial attraction is what draws us to others where we would want to get to know them. Unfortunately, many commit their bodies to total strangers to satisfy their sexual desires before knowing such persons. Their sexual desires cause them to go after sex instead of going after the person. Going after sex is not the thing, but going after the person is what God wants. The sexual desire is the motivating factor that drives us to want to know more about that person, so that love can grow and develop in the relationship. Once love has grown, the next natural step is sexual intimacy that fulfills a spiritual union - marriage. Here is what the apostle Paul, of all persons, says about dating relationships!
But if any man think that he behaveth himself uncomely toward his virgin, if she pass the flower of her age, and need so require, let him do what he will, he sinneth not: let them marry (1 Corinthians 7:36).
Let me translate here: If a man has a girlfriend (virgin) and starts to make sexual advances to her, and if she is of legal age to marry, then he has not sinned by marrying her. From this example we can see that sexual desire is the motivating force which drives the man to want to marry his virgin (girlfriend). If he had no sexual desire towards her, then he would not even think of marrying her. Desire is therefore needed to get the ball rolling towards marriage.
In conclusion then, we can safely say that sexual desire is not wrong, but is good, and is not the same as lust. Lust is the desire for something evil or for something which is wrong for us to have. God gave us sexual desires so that we would be motivated to find a mate, for the purpose of marriage.
ADDENDUM AND WORD OF WARNING: Many modern translations of the Bible translate the word lust as desire. THIS IS AN INCORRECT OR INACCURATE TRANSLATION OF THE WORD. The word lust denotes an evil desire or craving, while the word desire denotes a longing for something that could either be good or bad.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Debunking Myths about Human Sexuality
I am working on putting together my thoughts and scriptures. This is going to be big and mind-challenging. Stay tuned as I broach topics such as celibacy, and non procreative sex.
Is celibacy really scriptural? Is non reproductive sex a sin? Is lust the same as sexual desire? Is lusting for your spouse a sin?
All those and more coming.
Is celibacy really scriptural? Is non reproductive sex a sin? Is lust the same as sexual desire? Is lusting for your spouse a sin?
All those and more coming.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
An Appeal to the Sacred
In my last two posts I have been dealing with sacred sexuality as a God-ordained principle, and comparing sacred biblical sexuality with other forms of sexuality. In this post I will continue to do so, and at a deeper level, so that we can see where we are sexually, and where we need to be.
According to statistics, 50% of all marriages will end in divorce. A chilling reminder of how fragile marriage is, and how couples can go from being in love to divorce, and sometimes in a very short time. According to many Christian publications, the divorce rate among Christians is no better than that of the general public, and this too is alarming. One would think that spiritually-minded people would have better marriages or at least have less incidences of divorce, but this is not the case. In my opinion, I think the high rate of divorce among Christians is caused from misconceptions and pre-conceived biases against sex that has been instilled through erroneous church teachings, and limited understanding about sacred biblical sexuality. Many Christians who are experiencing maritial problems do so because of ignorance in the practice of sacred biblical sexuality. The typical approach to religion is usually one of prayer, church attendance, family worship, and lifestyle changes, but sexuality is an enigma that still brings embarrassment and blushes to even married folks, and when practiced, it is done at the non spiritual level - perhaps as a duty or obligation, or perhaps as a ‘legal’ way to satisfy the demands of the flesh. It is my belief however that this non spiritual approach to sex is the cause of the many family problems afflicting the church such as divorce, pre-marital sex, adultery, out-of-wedlock pregnancy, single parenthood, spousal abuse, family neglect, teenage sex/pregnancy, child molestation, and so on. A comparision between biblcal sexuality and the other types of sexuality will give a clear picture of how far we have strayed from the holy path, and will help to bring us back to God’s ideal for us. I have included modern tantric sexuality in the comparision because some people are going down that path as an alternative spiritual path, and I want to show the differences between that path and sacred biblical sexuality.
FORCE OF ATTRACTION
Sacred biblical sexuality: Soul to soul attraction; inner beauty
Modern tantric sexuality: Body to body attraction
Non spiritual sexuality: Physical attraction; outer beauty; bodily attraction
MOTIVATING FORCE
Sacred biblical sexuality: Love; sexual desires
Modern tantric sexuality: Love; lust; sexual desires
Non spiritual sexuality: Lust; sexual desires
OBJECT OF WORSHIP
Sacred biblical sexuality: God (monotheism)
Modern tantric sexuality: The self and one's sexual partner(s); sex ; (idolatry)
Non spiritual sexuality: Sex (idolatry)
DEFINITION OF GOD
Sacred biblical sexuality: Spiritual Being and Creator who exists outside of self and also within the body temple.
Modern tantric sexuality: The human self is a part of the essence of God; we are gods.
Non spiritual sexuality: A Spiritual Being who lives somewhere out there in heaven, but has no input in human sexuality(deistic); Does not exist (atheistic).
SEXUAL PLEASURE
Sacred biblical sexuality: A good thing
Modern tantric sexuality: A good thing
Non spiritual sexuality: Good but 'dirty'. Do the 'nasty.' Dirty words to describe the act.
AROUSAL STATES
Sacred biblical sexuality: Almost constant state of orgasmic bliss independent of arousal, that increases more when one is sexually aroused.
Modern tantric sexuality: Practices to stimulate arousal states and orgasmic bliss.
Non spiritual sexuality: Anywhere from a constant state of arousal to frigidity. From the need to ‘satisfy an urge’ to complete sexual apathy, and ‘faking’ orgasms.
SEXUAL GUILT
Sacred biblical sexuality: Guilt free
Modern tantric sexuality: Practices to negate guilt and shame; glory in shameful acts
Non spiritual sexuality: Guilty pleasures; shame and guilt; glory in shameful acts
SEXUAL CONTINENCY*
Sacred biblical sexuality: Encouraged
Modern tantric sexuality: A goal to be achieved, especially during lovemaking.
Non spiritual sexuality: Poor sexual continence; out of control.
*Sexual continence is traditionally defined as refraining from sexual activity even during marriage. It is also defined as “a total awareness and control during lovemaking. This implies that the couple will experience complete union with the possibility of reaching many orgasms. This kind of love fusion does not end with ejaculation for men nor an explosive discharge of sexual fluids for women" (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sexual_continence) .
REPRODUCTION
Sacred biblical sexuality: No restrictions; controlled by the couple with input from God; children a blessing from the Lord.
Modern tantric sexuality: Reproduction not a goal; controlled by the couple.
Non spiritual sexuality: Unwanted by-product of sex; out of control sexual continence resulting in multiple unplanned pregnancies and births, and/or abortive methods to control birth; children a burden.
DEVIANT SEXUAL PRACTICES AS DEFINED BY THE BIBLE
Sacred biblical sexuality: Forbidden
Modern tantric sexuality: Some are included as okay.
Non spiritual sexuality: Anything goes!
In conclusion, it can be seen that the adoption of non spiritual sexual practices will lead to the breakdown of marriages and homes, and society at large. I pray that we make a change and adopt the path of sacred biblical sexuality.
In my next post I will try to bust some myths pertaining to human sexuality.
According to statistics, 50% of all marriages will end in divorce. A chilling reminder of how fragile marriage is, and how couples can go from being in love to divorce, and sometimes in a very short time. According to many Christian publications, the divorce rate among Christians is no better than that of the general public, and this too is alarming. One would think that spiritually-minded people would have better marriages or at least have less incidences of divorce, but this is not the case. In my opinion, I think the high rate of divorce among Christians is caused from misconceptions and pre-conceived biases against sex that has been instilled through erroneous church teachings, and limited understanding about sacred biblical sexuality. Many Christians who are experiencing maritial problems do so because of ignorance in the practice of sacred biblical sexuality. The typical approach to religion is usually one of prayer, church attendance, family worship, and lifestyle changes, but sexuality is an enigma that still brings embarrassment and blushes to even married folks, and when practiced, it is done at the non spiritual level - perhaps as a duty or obligation, or perhaps as a ‘legal’ way to satisfy the demands of the flesh. It is my belief however that this non spiritual approach to sex is the cause of the many family problems afflicting the church such as divorce, pre-marital sex, adultery, out-of-wedlock pregnancy, single parenthood, spousal abuse, family neglect, teenage sex/pregnancy, child molestation, and so on. A comparision between biblcal sexuality and the other types of sexuality will give a clear picture of how far we have strayed from the holy path, and will help to bring us back to God’s ideal for us. I have included modern tantric sexuality in the comparision because some people are going down that path as an alternative spiritual path, and I want to show the differences between that path and sacred biblical sexuality.
FORCE OF ATTRACTION
Sacred biblical sexuality: Soul to soul attraction; inner beauty
Modern tantric sexuality: Body to body attraction
Non spiritual sexuality: Physical attraction; outer beauty; bodily attraction
MOTIVATING FORCE
Sacred biblical sexuality: Love; sexual desires
Modern tantric sexuality: Love; lust; sexual desires
Non spiritual sexuality: Lust; sexual desires
OBJECT OF WORSHIP
Sacred biblical sexuality: God (monotheism)
Modern tantric sexuality: The self and one's sexual partner(s); sex ; (idolatry)
Non spiritual sexuality: Sex (idolatry)
DEFINITION OF GOD
Sacred biblical sexuality: Spiritual Being and Creator who exists outside of self and also within the body temple.
Modern tantric sexuality: The human self is a part of the essence of God; we are gods.
Non spiritual sexuality: A Spiritual Being who lives somewhere out there in heaven, but has no input in human sexuality(deistic); Does not exist (atheistic).
SEXUAL PLEASURE
Sacred biblical sexuality: A good thing
Modern tantric sexuality: A good thing
Non spiritual sexuality: Good but 'dirty'. Do the 'nasty.' Dirty words to describe the act.
AROUSAL STATES
Sacred biblical sexuality: Almost constant state of orgasmic bliss independent of arousal, that increases more when one is sexually aroused.
Modern tantric sexuality: Practices to stimulate arousal states and orgasmic bliss.
Non spiritual sexuality: Anywhere from a constant state of arousal to frigidity. From the need to ‘satisfy an urge’ to complete sexual apathy, and ‘faking’ orgasms.
SEXUAL GUILT
Sacred biblical sexuality: Guilt free
Modern tantric sexuality: Practices to negate guilt and shame; glory in shameful acts
Non spiritual sexuality: Guilty pleasures; shame and guilt; glory in shameful acts
SEXUAL CONTINENCY*
Sacred biblical sexuality: Encouraged
Modern tantric sexuality: A goal to be achieved, especially during lovemaking.
Non spiritual sexuality: Poor sexual continence; out of control.
*Sexual continence is traditionally defined as refraining from sexual activity even during marriage. It is also defined as “a total awareness and control during lovemaking. This implies that the couple will experience complete union with the possibility of reaching many orgasms. This kind of love fusion does not end with ejaculation for men nor an explosive discharge of sexual fluids for women" (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sexual_continence) .
REPRODUCTION
Sacred biblical sexuality: No restrictions; controlled by the couple with input from God; children a blessing from the Lord.
Modern tantric sexuality: Reproduction not a goal; controlled by the couple.
Non spiritual sexuality: Unwanted by-product of sex; out of control sexual continence resulting in multiple unplanned pregnancies and births, and/or abortive methods to control birth; children a burden.
DEVIANT SEXUAL PRACTICES AS DEFINED BY THE BIBLE
Sacred biblical sexuality: Forbidden
Modern tantric sexuality: Some are included as okay.
Non spiritual sexuality: Anything goes!
In conclusion, it can be seen that the adoption of non spiritual sexual practices will lead to the breakdown of marriages and homes, and society at large. I pray that we make a change and adopt the path of sacred biblical sexuality.
In my next post I will try to bust some myths pertaining to human sexuality.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
In Search of the Sacred
In my last post I touched on spiritual sexuality by giving some definitions of biblical sacred sexualty versus tantric sex, and non spiritual sex. In view of the lack of material available that deals with this idea of spiritual sexuality adequately, in this post I am going to expound further on this concept, and show the sacred aspects of sex as it relates to biblical sexuality. I will also compare this biblical sexuality with a popular form of spiritual sexuality which is being promoted today, called modern tantra.
As was stated in my last post, sacred biblical sexuality is defined as a physical expression of God’s love towards mankind, that is often manifested indirectly through the physical union of husband and wife. “I am my beloved’s, and his desire is toward me” (Song of Solomon 7:10). In biblical sexuality, the sexual union serves as a means to achieve spiritual unity, bonding, intimacy, and affection between a husband and wife. It is God's way of making two distinct individual persons become united in mind and purpose, so that they act as a harmonious unit, with love and affection for each other. This bond of love should be so strong that it can withstand the pressures and outside forces that should come against it.
"Place me like a seal over your heart, like a seal on your arm; for love is as strong as death, its jealousy unyielding as the grave. It burns like blazing fire, like a mighty flame. Many waters cannot quench love; rivers cannot wash it away. If one were to give all the wealth of his house for love, it would be utterly scorned" (Song of Solomon 8:6-7, NIV).
The beauty of biblical sexuality is that its goals can be achieved even outside of sex. Therefore, for the unmarried or single person, this is great relief, because it releases one from the pressure of having to find a mate or 'perform' sexually in order to achieve harmony, love and affection for others. The euphoric states of joy and ecstasy, which are experienced in the sexual union, are also available for the single individual who is not sexually involved, but who has achieved a level of spiritual union with God. Such a feeling of love can be so strong that it supercedes any feelings of love that we can have for a physical mate. In 2 Samuel 1:26 it says, "Thy love to me was wonderful, passing the love of women"(or men for us women). It says in 1Peter 1:8 that our love for Christ causes us to rejoice with "joy unspeakable and full of glory" which denotes an ectastic state of joy, and this idea of joy being similar to that in the marriage union is further conveyed in Isaiah 62:5 where it says, "And as the bridegroom rejoiceth over the bride, so shall thy God rejoice over thee." Biblical sexuality therefore allows one to experience complete fulfillment or joy, whether one is married or single.
Below are some comparisions between biblical sexuality, tantric sexuality, and non spiritual sexuality. Remember, I am using modern tantra as my basis, as I do not know much about ancient tantra as practiced by Hindus and Buddhists. I try to be as fair-minded and objective as I possibly can, so as to give an honest asssessment.
GOAL OF SEX
Sacred biblical sexuality: To achieve spiritual union with God and to deepen the bond between God and man. To foster a spiritual union between husband and wife.
Modern tantric sexuality: To achieve spiritual and physical union between man and the gods/God
Non spiritual sexuality: Physical union between two people.
THE BODY
Sacred biblical sexuality: The body is the Temple of God. The body belongs to God and I do with the body only what is pleasing to God.
Modern tantric sexuality: The body is the temple and body of God. The body belongs to self who is a god. It is my body and I can indulge it in pleasure to please myself and my lover(s).
Non spiritual sexuality: The body is a created object given to us by God but He has no interest in the body (deistic view); the body is an evolved object which we can use however we see fit (atheistic view); the body belongs to self, “It is my body and I can do whatever I want with it.”
BODY IMAGE
Sacred biblical sexuality: Good body image; unashamed of the body.
Modern tantric sexuality: Egotistical view of the body (body of a god); unashamed of the body.
Non spiritual sexuality: Poor body image; ashamed of the body; 'dirty' words to describe genitals.
CARE OF BODY
Sacred biblical sexuality: High levels of self-care; health consciousness.
Modern tantric sexuality: High level of self-care to bodily abuse; health consciousness that is frustrated by disease, risky behavior.
Non spiritual sexuality: Neglect of the body; bodily abuse; poor sense of health consciousness; risky behavior; disease.
FEELINGS OF SELF-WORTH
Sacred biblical sexuality: High feelings of value and self-worth with or without a sexual partner; feelings of well-being and wholeness; high self-esteem and self-love.
Modern tantric sexuality: Some level of self-worth without a partner; self-pride; struggle between self-love and self-hate. Needs a sexual partner to fulfill highest ideals of self-worth/self-divinity.
Non spiritual sexuality: Poor self-esteem; self-hate; feelings of inadequacy; feelings of sexual power and dominance; sexual abuse; narcissism; selfishness.
I will stop here now with this comparison, as a lot has been said, and needs to be absorbed before I continue. I will continue with the comparisons on my next post, so watch out for that. I hope so far you can see how far we have strayed from true biblical sexuality, and what has resulted from us straying from this holy path.
As was stated in my last post, sacred biblical sexuality is defined as a physical expression of God’s love towards mankind, that is often manifested indirectly through the physical union of husband and wife. “I am my beloved’s, and his desire is toward me” (Song of Solomon 7:10). In biblical sexuality, the sexual union serves as a means to achieve spiritual unity, bonding, intimacy, and affection between a husband and wife. It is God's way of making two distinct individual persons become united in mind and purpose, so that they act as a harmonious unit, with love and affection for each other. This bond of love should be so strong that it can withstand the pressures and outside forces that should come against it.
"Place me like a seal over your heart, like a seal on your arm; for love is as strong as death, its jealousy unyielding as the grave. It burns like blazing fire, like a mighty flame. Many waters cannot quench love; rivers cannot wash it away. If one were to give all the wealth of his house for love, it would be utterly scorned" (Song of Solomon 8:6-7, NIV).
The beauty of biblical sexuality is that its goals can be achieved even outside of sex. Therefore, for the unmarried or single person, this is great relief, because it releases one from the pressure of having to find a mate or 'perform' sexually in order to achieve harmony, love and affection for others. The euphoric states of joy and ecstasy, which are experienced in the sexual union, are also available for the single individual who is not sexually involved, but who has achieved a level of spiritual union with God. Such a feeling of love can be so strong that it supercedes any feelings of love that we can have for a physical mate. In 2 Samuel 1:26 it says, "Thy love to me was wonderful, passing the love of women"(or men for us women). It says in 1Peter 1:8 that our love for Christ causes us to rejoice with "joy unspeakable and full of glory" which denotes an ectastic state of joy, and this idea of joy being similar to that in the marriage union is further conveyed in Isaiah 62:5 where it says, "And as the bridegroom rejoiceth over the bride, so shall thy God rejoice over thee." Biblical sexuality therefore allows one to experience complete fulfillment or joy, whether one is married or single.
Below are some comparisions between biblical sexuality, tantric sexuality, and non spiritual sexuality. Remember, I am using modern tantra as my basis, as I do not know much about ancient tantra as practiced by Hindus and Buddhists. I try to be as fair-minded and objective as I possibly can, so as to give an honest asssessment.
GOAL OF SEX
Sacred biblical sexuality: To achieve spiritual union with God and to deepen the bond between God and man. To foster a spiritual union between husband and wife.
Modern tantric sexuality: To achieve spiritual and physical union between man and the gods/God
Non spiritual sexuality: Physical union between two people.
THE BODY
Sacred biblical sexuality: The body is the Temple of God. The body belongs to God and I do with the body only what is pleasing to God.
Modern tantric sexuality: The body is the temple and body of God. The body belongs to self who is a god. It is my body and I can indulge it in pleasure to please myself and my lover(s).
Non spiritual sexuality: The body is a created object given to us by God but He has no interest in the body (deistic view); the body is an evolved object which we can use however we see fit (atheistic view); the body belongs to self, “It is my body and I can do whatever I want with it.”
BODY IMAGE
Sacred biblical sexuality: Good body image; unashamed of the body.
Modern tantric sexuality: Egotistical view of the body (body of a god); unashamed of the body.
Non spiritual sexuality: Poor body image; ashamed of the body; 'dirty' words to describe genitals.
CARE OF BODY
Sacred biblical sexuality: High levels of self-care; health consciousness.
Modern tantric sexuality: High level of self-care to bodily abuse; health consciousness that is frustrated by disease, risky behavior.
Non spiritual sexuality: Neglect of the body; bodily abuse; poor sense of health consciousness; risky behavior; disease.
FEELINGS OF SELF-WORTH
Sacred biblical sexuality: High feelings of value and self-worth with or without a sexual partner; feelings of well-being and wholeness; high self-esteem and self-love.
Modern tantric sexuality: Some level of self-worth without a partner; self-pride; struggle between self-love and self-hate. Needs a sexual partner to fulfill highest ideals of self-worth/self-divinity.
Non spiritual sexuality: Poor self-esteem; self-hate; feelings of inadequacy; feelings of sexual power and dominance; sexual abuse; narcissism; selfishness.
I will stop here now with this comparison, as a lot has been said, and needs to be absorbed before I continue. I will continue with the comparisons on my next post, so watch out for that. I hope so far you can see how far we have strayed from true biblical sexuality, and what has resulted from us straying from this holy path.
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