If you’re even just a little bit privy to celebs and entertainment gossip you have probably heard of some well known couples whipping out the celibacy card. Some very good looking couples I might add! These good looking couples have shared that their purposes for being celibate have more to do with their faith then anything. One couple actually released a book about their experience called “The Wait” written by Devon Franklin and Meagan Good. I have yet to read the book but a blogger friend of mine had the opportunity to interview them. Please check out the interview here.
I applaud Devon and Meagan’s efforts to help others become aware that God wants our bodies as well as our hearts. I appreciate that they have a greater platform than many believers and can even reach a more diverse group of people to share a message of purity.
Another couple that has been outspoken about “their wait” recently became engaged. Russell Wilson and Ciara are on their way to the next step in solidifying their relationship. While I rejoice that this couple desires to honor one another and God in their relationship I understand by experience that celibacy is just one step towards the goal of a healthy, godly marriage. Purity runs deeper than just physical boundaries and a solid foundation for a relationship must encompass mental, emotional, psychological, and spiritual components. I pray this couple gets that understanding if they don’t already have it. 
In my experience the body of Christ has done a poor job of preparing singles for marriage. The teaching has been very surface level and often times Christian couples modeled worldy couples, except without the sex and sometimes maybe they prayed together. They just kind of tagged Jesus on and moved forward functioning from a lot of self and immaturity. These teachers thought that celibacy was the key.
But I believe wisdom is the key.
Celibacy is just a byproduct of holiness and intimacy with God. We respond to Him by laying down our desires because He is so good, but that is just one level of knowing Him. As we keep walking and maturing in Him we learn there are greater components to a covenant with Him and a covenant with a spouse.
I pray these couples who desire God’s best learn there is much more to the foundation of a healthy relationship than just abstinence. There is wholeness which cannot be cultivated easily. Instead it takes time and obedience and faithfulness.
SHALOM
Interesting read to be shared as food for thoughts!!!
Hey Nicole! I LOVED that you raised that point, that celibacy is so much more than not having sex. And I really wish I could just pick up the phone and call you! And I’m picking up what you are putting down just being ONE step toward, I hope Russel and Ciara have that understanding too.
Because this is not about tagging Jesus, it’s about pursuing holiness 100 percent and if we miss that…well, will talk about that one the call. Peace and Blessings and Thank you for sharing!