Sex can be a beautiful thing when used appropriately in the right time, in the right place, and with the right person.  The world would have you believe that sex is driven by passion that cannot be restrained or contained.  When the urges happen, you must act on them regardless of who with or where you are.  The media portrays sex with no consequences and with a complete disregard to marriage vows.  It seems that the world is obsessed with sex.  It is in the news, movies, music, advertising, grocery aisle, books, and so much more.  The sex that is being portrayed is not based on reality.  It gives a couple unrealistic expectations about what sex should be like.  It can leave a couple feeling unsatisfied in their marriage and with their partner.

These feelings can lead a couple to looking for sexual fulfillment elsewhere.  It can be in friendships, affairs, pornography, and many other places.  This puts a couple at risk for infidelity and breaking sacred marriage covenants.  Dr. Goddard shared the following, “As my wise colleague James Marshall observes, ‘The grass is greener on the side of the fence you water.’  If we tend our own little patch, even with all its weeds and rocks, we will find a joy that passes understanding” (Goddard, 2009, p. 95).

So, what can we do to safeguard our marriages?  Dr. Goddard gives several suggestions (Goddard, 2009, p. 94):

• Do not look at another person with lust.
• Do not spend time alone with a person of the opposite sex who is not your spouse.
• Do not be flirty. The only person you should be sharing your affections with is your spouse.
• Do not dwell or daydream of anyone but your spouse.
• If you make excuses for the relationship, you may be addicted and need to get help.
• Have weekly dates with your spouse.
• Focus on your spiritual efforts such as prayer, service, scripture study, and love of your family.
• Don’t be alone with them.
• Avoid pornography.
• Build trust with your spouse.

By following these suggestions, we can safeguard our marriages from the danger of infidelity.  We can build our marriages up and make them strongholds that will stand as a beacon to others.