Christianity Oasis Forum

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January 19 | Bible in a Year: Genesis 46-48; Matthew 13:1-30



The Beauty of Love

READ:
PROVERBS 5
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May your fountain be blessed.
Proverbs 5:18
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The “Jarabe Tapatío,” also known as the Mexican hat dance, celebrates romance. During this upbeat dance, the man places his sombrero on the ground. At the very end, the woman grabs the hat and both hide behind it to seal their romance with a kiss.
This dance reminds me of the importance of faithfulness in marriage. In Proverbs 5, after talking about the high cost of immorality, we read that marriage is exclusive. “Drink water from your own cistern, running water from your own well” (v. 15). Even with ten couples dancing the Jarabe on stage, each person focuses on his or her partner. We can rejoice in a deep and undivided commitment to our spouse (v. 18).
Our romance is also being observed. The dancers, while they are enjoying their partner, know someone is watching. In the same way, we read, “For your ways are in full view of the Lord, and he examines all your paths” (v. 21). God wants to protect our marriages, so He’s constantly watching us. May we please Him through the loyalty we show to each other.
Just like in the Jarabe there is a rhythm to follow in life. When we keep the beat of our Creator by being faithful to Him—whether we are married or unmarried—we find blessings and joy.
By Keila Ochoa
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**REFLECT & PRAY
Faithfulness brings joy.
Dear Lord, You know all my ways. Help me to honor You in my relationships with others.



>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>INSIGHT<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
The book of Proverbs is “a compass that helps us navigate the murky waters of life” (nlt Study Bible). In the first nine chapters, a father advises his son how to live a God-honoring life. Here in chapter 5, the father warns of the dangers (vv. 4-6) and foolishness (vv. 7-14) of sexual love outside of marriage while commending the enjoyment of it within the bounds of marriage (vv. 15-20). The author reminds us that our “ways are in full view of the Lord” (v. 21) and there are consequences to our choices (vv. 22-23). K. T. Sim