Intimacy between a husband and wife is an important part of marriage, but what happens when that connection is missing? The Bible speaks to the importance of unity, love, and mutual respect within marriage. It encourages couples to work through challenges and maintain a close bond, emotionally and physically.
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What Does The Bible Say About husband and wife not sleeping together
1 Corinthians 7:3-5
The husband should fulfill his marital duty to his wife, and likewise the wife to her husband. The wife does not have authority over her own body but yields it to her husband. In the same way, the husband does not have authority over his own body but yields it to his wife. Do not deprive each other except perhaps by mutual consent and for a time, so that you may devote yourselves to prayer. Then come together again so that Satan will not tempt you because of your lack of self-control.
This verse emphasizes the importance of sexual intimacy between a husband and wife in marriage. It emphasizes the mutual responsibility and authority each spouse has over the other’s body. It cautions against depriving one another of this intimacy, except for times of mutual consent and for spiritual devotion through prayer.
The verse also highlights the potential consequences of withholding sexual intimacy, such as an increased vulnerability to temptation from Satan due to lack of self-control. It reminds couples that regular physical intimacy is an essential aspect of their marital relationship and should not be neglected.
Proverbs 5:18-19
May your fountain be blessed, and may you rejoice in the wife of your youth. A loving doe, a graceful deer— may her breasts satisfy you always, may you ever be intoxicated with her love.
This passage celebrates the physical and intimate relationship between a husband and his wife. It portrays marital love and satisfaction as a blessing from God. The metaphor of a loving doe and a graceful deer conveys the beauty and allure of a wife to her husband.
The verse encourages husbands to find continual satisfaction in their wife’s love and physical affection. It portrays the intoxication of love and the joy that comes from a fulfilling and passionate marital relationship.
Hebrews 13:4
Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral.
This verse underscores the sacredness of marriage and emphasizes the importance of honoring the marital relationship. It highlights the responsibility of both husbands and wives to keep their marriage bed pure and free from any form of sexual immorality.
By honoring the marriage bed, couples are demonstrating obedience to God’s commandments and protecting the sanctity of their relationship. The verse warns of God’s judgment against those who engage in adultery or any immoral sexual behavior outside the bounds of marriage.
Song of Solomon 7:10
I belong to my beloved, and his desire is for me.
This verse expresses the intimate bond between a husband and wife. It captures the sense of belonging and exclusivity within a marital relationship. The wife’s declaration that she belongs to her beloved husband reflects the depth of their connection.
The verse also highlights the strong desire and attraction that exists between the couple. The husband’s desire for his wife symbolizes the mutual physical and emotional longing they have for one another. It depicts a sense of deep intimacy and passion within the marriage.
1 Corinthians 7:2
But since sexual immorality is occurring, each man should have sexual relations with his own wife, and each woman with her own husband.
This verse addresses the issue of sexual immorality and provides guidance for married couples. It emphasizes that each spouse has the responsibility to fulfill the sexual needs of their partner within the confines of marriage.
By engaging in sexual relations with their own spouse, couples can avoid falling into the trap of sexual immorality. The verse suggests that a healthy and satisfying sexual relationship within marriage serves as a protective measure against immoral behavior.
1 Corinthians 7:9
But if they cannot control themselves, they should marry, for it is better to marry than to burn with passion.
This verse addresses the topic of sexual desire and self-control. It suggests that if individuals struggle with controlling their sexual urges, it is better for them to marry and engage in sexual relations within the bounds of marriage.
The verse acknowledges that sexual passion is a powerful and natural aspect of human existence. It implies that marriage provides a suitable outlet for these desires, allowing individuals to express their passions in a healthy and God-honoring way.
1 Peter 3:7
Husbands, in the same way be considerate as you live with your wives, and treat them with respect as the weaker partner and as heirs with you of the gracious gift of life so that nothing will hinder your prayers.
This verse addresses husbands and their relationship with their wives. It encourages husbands to treat their wives with consideration, respect, and understanding. It acknowledges the significance of the marital relationship and the spiritual equality of husband and wife as heirs of God’s grace.
The verse emphasizes that how husbands treat their wives can impact their prayers. It highlights the interconnectedness of marital dynamics and spiritual well-being, urging husbands to cultivate a loving, respectful, and honoring relationship with their wives.
Ephesians 5:28
In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself.
This verse speaks to husbands, instructing them to love their wives sacrificially and unconditionally. It draws a parallel between the love husbands have for their wives and the love they have for their own bodies.
The verse highlights that when husbands love and care for their wives, they are also benefiting themselves. It emphasizes the unity and interconnectedness of husband and wife, highlighting the importance of selfless love within the marital relationship.
Proverbs 18:22
He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the Lord.
This verse celebrates the blessing of finding a wife. It acknowledges the goodness and favor that come from having a loving and committed partner in marriage.
The verse implies that finding a wife is not only a personal joy but also a gift from the Lord. It recognizes the unique role and significance that wives have in the lives of their husbands, bringing favor and blessings into their lives.
Malachi 2:14
But you say, “Why does he not?” Because the Lord was witness between you and the wife of your youth, to whom you have been faithless, though she is your companion and your wife by covenant.
This verse addresses the issue of marital faithfulness. It confronts individuals who have been unfaithful to their spouses and reminds them of the covenant relationship they entered into with their spouse.
The verse emphasizes that the Lord is a witness to the marriage and holds individuals accountable for their actions. It emphasizes the importance of honoring the commitment made to one’s spouse and remaining faithful to the marriage covenant.
Proverbs 31:10
An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels.
This verse extols the virtues of an excellent wife. It emphasizes the rarity and value of a wife who possesses exceptional qualities, surpassing the worth of precious jewels.
The verse highlights the significance of a wife who embodies the qualities of virtue, wisdom, and strength. It encourages husbands to appreciate and cherish their wives, acknowledging the irreplaceable value they bring to their lives.
Proverbs 12:4
A wife of noble character is her husband’s crown, but a disgraceful wife is like decay in his bones.
This verse draws a contrast between a wife of noble character and a disgraceful wife. It emphasizes the impact a wife’s character has on her husband.
The verse suggests that a wife who possesses virtuous qualities is a source of honor and pride for her husband. On the other hand, a wife who lacks noble character brings decay and dishonor into her husband’s life. It underscores the importance of a wife’s character in nurturing a healthy and fulfilling marital relationship.
Colossians 3:19
Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them.
This verse speaks directly to husbands, instructing them to love their wives and treat them with gentleness and kindness. It reminds husbands to exercise patience and understanding in their interactions with their wives.
The verse emphasizes the importance of cultivating a loving and respectful attitude towards one’s spouse. It encourages husbands to avoid harshness, recognizing that love and tenderness are essential components of a healthy marital relationship.
Proverbs 5:15-17
Drink water from your own cistern, running water from your own well. Should your springs overflow in the streets, your streams of water in the public squares? Let them be yours alone, never to be shared with strangers.
This passage uses the metaphor of water to symbolize the intimacy between a husband and wife. It encourages individuals to derive satisfaction and fulfillment from their own spouse rather than seeking it from outside sources.
The verse emphasizes the exclusivity of the marital relationship, highlighting the importance of keeping intimacy within the bounds of marriage and guarding against the temptation of infidelity.
Proverbs 19:14
Houses and wealth are inherited from parents, but a prudent wife is from the Lord.
This verse presents a contrast between material possessions and the value of a prudent wife. It suggests that while houses and wealth can be inherited, a wife with wisdom and discernment is a gift from the Lord.
The verse emphasizes that a wife who possesses prudence and sound judgment is a blessing in a husband’s life, surpassing the value of material possessions. It highlights the importance of seeking God’s wisdom in choosing a life partner.
Mark 10:9
Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.
This verse emphasizes the sacredness and permanence of marriage. It underscores the significance of the covenant relationship formed between husband and wife through God’s joining.
The verse serves as a reminder that no human intervention or circumstance should come between the bond established by God in marriage. It encourages couples to strive for unity, love, and commitment, guarding against any forces that seek to divide or separate them.
Ecclesiastes 9:9
Enjoy life with your wife, whom you love, all the days of this meaningless life that God has given you under the sun—all your meaningless days. For this is your lot in life and in your toilsome labor under the sun.
This verse encourages husbands to find joy and fulfillment in their relationship with their wives. It acknowledges the fleeting nature of life and emphasizes the importance of cherishing and enjoying the companionship of one’s spouse.
The verse reminds couples that their marital relationship is a gift from God in an otherwise challenging and fleeting existence. It encourages husbands to embrace the love and companionship of their wives and find contentment in their shared journey through life.
Proverbs 5:19
A loving doe, a graceful deer— may her breasts satisfy you always, may you ever be intoxicated with her love.
This verse uses poetic imagery to describe the beauty and allure of a wife. It speaks to the wife’s ability to bring satisfaction and intoxicating love to her husband.
The verse conveys the idea that the loving and intimate relationship between husband and wife should be a source of continual satisfaction and joy. It celebrates the physical and emotional connection within marriage, emphasizing the power and allure of spousal love.
Ephesians 5:25
Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.
This verse calls husbands to emulate Christ’s sacrificial love in their relationship with their wives. It challenges husbands to love their wives selflessly and unconditionally, putting their needs above their own.
The verse highlights the profound depth of love husbands are called to have for their wives. It emphasizes the sacrificial nature of love, mirroring Christ’s sacrificial love for the church. It encourages husbands to care for and honor their wives in a similar manner.
Song of Solomon 8:6-7
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 sweep it away. If one were to give all the wealth of one’s house for love, it would be utterly scorned.
This passage portrays the strength and enduring nature of love within marriage. It uses imagery of a seal and fire to depict the power and intensity of love.
The verse emphasizes that love is an unyielding force, surpassing even the power of death. It conveys the depth and unquenchable nature of love, illustrating its ability to withstand life’s challenges and trials. It characterizes love as priceless and invaluable, far superior to material wealth.
Matthew 19:5-6
For this reason, a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh. So, they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore, what God has joined together, let no one separate.
This verse emphasizes the unbreakable bond formed between husband and wife in marriage. It references the Genesis account and reinforces the principle of leaving one’s family to cleave to one’s spouse.
The verse emphasizes the profound unity and oneness that exists within the marital relationship. It underscores the divine origin of marriage and serves as a reminder that no human interference or circumstance should come between what God has joined together.
Proverbs 31:12
She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life.
This verse depicts the positive impact and continuous support a wife brings to her husband. It highlights the wife’s role in cultivating a nurturing and loving atmosphere in the home.
The verse acknowledges the importance of a wife’s influence in her husband’s life and underscores her commitment to bringing him good and not harm. It implies that a wife’s actions and attitude play a significant role in fostering a harmonious and fulfilling marital relationship.
Genesis 2:24
That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh.
This verse echoes the principle established in Matthew 19:5-6, emphasizing the leaving of one’s family to form a lifelong union with one’s spouse.
The verse underscores the unique connection and unity that are formed within the marital relationship. It highlights the intimacy and oneness that exists between husband and wife, symbolized by becoming one flesh.
Proverbs 14:1
The wise woman builds her house, but with her own hands, the foolish one tears hers down.
This verse contrasts the actions of a wise wife with those of a foolish one. It emphasizes the impact a wife’s actions have on the overall state of the home and family.
The verse suggests that a wise and virtuous wife actively contributes to the well-being and stability of her household, fostering a nurturing and harmonious environment. In contrast, a foolish wife’s actions can lead to the dismantling and destruction of her home. It emphasizes the importance of wisdom and prudence in a wife’s role within the family.