Faith & Purpose Today
A Daily Devotional By Larry
Mutual Rights Over Each Other’s Bodies
December 21st, 2025.
“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.” (1 Corinthians 7:4)
Marriage is a covenant of mutual surrender. In 1 Corinthians 7:4, Paul teaches that spouses have equal rights over one another’s bodies. This principle emphasizes that marriage is not about selfishness but about mutual giving.
Sexual intimacy in marriage is not optional; it is a God-ordained expression of love and unity. When spouses deprive one another, they open the door to temptation. Paul warns in 1 Corinthians 7:5 that couples should not withhold intimacy, lest Satan tempt them. Intimacy is a safeguard against temptation and a means of strengthening the bond of oneness.
Mutual rights reflect equality. The husband does not own his body exclusively, nor does the wife. Each belongs to the other, and both belong to God. This mutual surrender fosters trust, intimacy, and covenant faithfulness.
Deprivation in marriage dishonors God’s design. It creates frustration, resentment, and vulnerability. Jesus warned against causing others to stumble (Matthew 18:6). When spouses withhold intimacy, they risk leading their partner into unnecessary temptation.
Mutual surrender also reflects Christ’s love. Just as He gave Himself fully for the church, spouses are called to give themselves fully to one another. This giving is not about obligation but about love. It is about honoring the covenant and reflecting God’s faithfulness.
Ultimately, intimacy in marriage is holy. It is not merely physical but spiritual, symbolizing the union of two becoming one flesh. When couples honor this principle, they experience joy, trust, and blessing.
Prayer
Lord, thank You for designing marriage as a covenant of mutual surrender. Help me to honor my spouse by giving myself fully, reflecting Your love and faithfulness. May our intimacy be holy and strengthen our union. Amen.
Reflection Question
How does mutual surrender in marriage reflect Christ’s love and protect against temptation?
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