It wasn't too long ago that I wanted the 50 Shades fantasy. The passion. The intensity. It seemed like the ideal. I was insecure and certainly insecure with my relationship. I had no idea what would fulfill my heart and make me feel whole- the movies definitely make it look pretty good. I thought that a bouquet of roses and some frivolous gifts would satisfy.
It wasn't until a few years ago, that I began to see what real love was. It definitely wasn't risque and filled with shallow gifts. It wasn't 50 Shades of anything. It was and is real, deep, long-lasting, and sacrificial.
I thought I desired the 50 Shades kind of love. I was young and naive. One thing, though, that I want to make abundantly clear, is that the love that I have now is a gift. I settled for nothing short of magical, spiritual, and eternal. And, if you're looking for intensity, this is it. Nothing is more intense than Biblical love and intimacy. Biblical intimacy isn't whips & chains, it's gentle and quiet and forgiving. It loves when you're unlovable and breathes life into you when you are undeserving.
Biblical love grows old with you and sees your beauty with each aging wrinkle. Biblical love pours into your soul and values your being. Biblical love sees you as a gift and cherishes you like gold. Biblical love holds your hand as you walk through life and desires you more with every step. It might not be the 50 Shades kind of passion and lust, but intimacy isn't passion and lust. Bondage is made up of passion and lust. Intimacy is a God-given gift that is to be prayed over and fought for.
*Disclaimer: I have never read any of the 50 Shades of Grey books. I am merely addressing the issue due to its presence on my facebook newsfeed and in the media.
I love this! I am so stinking glad that I am coming across so many bloggers lately who aren't buying into the sham that what we need to fulfill us, is the kind of cheap thrill that 50 Shades is offering.
ReplyDeleteThank you for taking the time to read. Blessings to you, Donna.
DeleteSo beautiful Liz! And so true!!!!
ReplyDeleteI love this Liz. Love is not 50 shades of passion. Can I share this on page? I think people need to read this. I was conflicted while reading some of the first book. It was so intense.
ReplyDeleteVery well written, Liz. Thank you for sharing your perspective and reminding ME what real love is, and what I have experienced for nearly 34 years. Sometimes, when love seems bland and mundane, it takes something like this to remind me of the experiences we have shared, the trials we have overcome, and the commitment that has grown and deepened over the years. Is it like it was 35 years ago?? No, but it's better. It's safe, it's secure and it's comfortable. I think I'll keep him. <3
ReplyDeleteI agree... he IS a keeper. ;) Thank you for your words and your heart.
DeleteHave you seen the movie The Song? Now that is a love story we should all watch. The use of Scripture narration throughout was beautiful. They base this movie on Song of Songs. I definitely recommend it.
ReplyDeleteNo, I haven't, but it sounds like one we would like to watch. Thank you for the recommendation!
DeleteVery well said!
ReplyDeleteThis is great. I have been sharing a lot of posts that go against 50 shades, but this is one of my favorites. I love the comparison of it vs true love. Your hubby sounds awesome!
ReplyDeleteComing by from Faith-filled Fridays, and you definitely have a new fan! :)
God bless,
Jenn @ BusyBeingBlessed
Thank you so much, Jenn! It means a lot that you took the time to comment. :)
DeleteBeautiful, pure words Liz. Thank you for sharing this with us, these are words we all need to hear! This is my first visit, I found you via Casey Wiegand's linky, I'm so glad I stopped by x
ReplyDeleteAwe... I love Casey's blog. I am so glad you stopped by. I hope you were encouraged.
DeleteI love this post. As a believer in Christ, I love how you expressed that our desire for love can only be fulfilled in the one who loves us endlessly without a judgy or critical tone. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely, Kelsey! Thank you for stopping by and sharing your heart. :)
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