As God doth lead me I would go; I do not ask to choose my way; Content with what He doth bestow, Assured He will not let me stray. So as He leads, My path I make, And step by step I gladly take, A child in Him confiding.
As God doth lead I am content; I rest me calmly in His hands; That which He has decreed and sent– That which His will for me commands, I would that He should all fulfill: That I should do His gracious will In living or in dying.
As God doth lead I all resign; I trust me to my Father’s will; When reason’s rays deceptive shine, His counsel would I yet fulfill– That which His love ordained as right, Before He brought me to the light,– My all to Him resigning.
As God doth lead me I abide, In faith, in hope, is suffering true; His strength is ever by my side– Can aught my hold on Him undo? So patiently I wait and know That God, who doth my life bestow, In kindness all is sending.
As God doth lead I onward go, Though oft ‘mid thorns and briers keen; God does not yet His guidance show– But in the end it shall be seen How, by a loving Father’s will, Faithful and true, He leads me still,– Thus anchored, faith is resting.
This 1711 hymn, written by Lampertus Gedicke and translated from his native tongue (German), describes a state of contentment uncommon to man. Gedicke’s attitude echos the Apostle Paul’s, who proclaimed:
I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. – Philippians 4:11b (KJV)
Though the NASB is my preferred translation, I love the way this famous verse reads in the King James. As I am one who enjoys wordplay and can appreciate a good pun, this KJV rendering of Philippians 4:11b makes my brain flip that little word “state” (condition/circumstance) into “state” (location/place). Paul was clearly using the former definition of the word, but his statement is equally true using the latter definition.
If Paul were a modern American citizen, he might’ve said this:
“I have learned, in whatsoever state I am in – whether that state be Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, or any of the other 30 states – therewith to be content.“
The message Paul was driving home in Philippians is that we can choose to live in a state of contentment regardless of our present condition/circumstance. I submit to you now that we can also choose to live in a state of contentment regardless of our present location/place. Frankly, if you can’t find contentment in Alabama, I can guarantee you won’t be able to find contentment in Alaska. If you can’t find contentment in Alaska, I can guarantee you won’t be able to find contentment in Arizona. If you can’t find contentment in ______, I can guarantee you won’t be able to find contentment in ______. (Fill in the blanks with the state you live in and a state you’d rather live in). You get the idea: a state of contentment is not a physical locale, but rather, a frame of mind…one that is content to stay and content to go, “as god doth lead“.
Are you battling feelings of discontentment regarding your present location/place? Do you sometimes feel like you’d be a whole lot happier if you could just “get out of dodge”? Or, on the flip side, are your feelings of contentment merely on account of enjoying your present location/place? Do you sometimes feel like you’d fall apart if you had to move away from the home you love? If you find yourself in one of these scenarios, then this month’s article is for you. Using Lampertus Gedicke’s 1711 hymn as our guide, we are going to learn 5 powerful affirmations that will help us to enter a state of contentment. Ready?
Affirmation #1: As God Doth Lead Me…
As God doth lead me I would go; I do not ask to choose my way; Content with what He doth bestow, Assured He will not let me stray. So as He leads, My path I make, And step by step I gladly take, A child in Him confiding.
The word “would”, used in this archaic sense, connotes an intense wish, desire, or yearning. In today’s age, we use “would” in a much more complacent way (i.e. “Sorry, I would go, but I have other commitments.” or “Maybe I would go if I had the right outfit.”) Gedicke’s “I would go” expresses his sincere longing to walk the path God has set before him. He is saying that he lets Dad choose the way. That he is content with what Dad has to offer. That he trusts Dad to keep him on course. That he follows Dad’s lead. That he gladly mimics Dad’s steps. That he has childlike confidence in Dad. Picture a young boy all packed up and ready to go on a surprise vacation. He’s not apprehensive; he’s excited. He’s ready to get this show on the road. He’s bouncing off the walls with anticipation. He’s going to burst out the door the moment he gets the go-ahead. He may not know just where he’s headed, but he knows that a trip planned by Dad is bound to be good.
Do we have a childlike confidence in our Father – trusting that wherever He leads us will be for our good? Are we willing to leave the stomping grounds that are near and dear to us in order to follow God’s lead elsewhere? Can we say “goodbye” to a cozy home, or a manicured lawn, or a cultivated garden, or a mild climate, or a treasured friend, or a beloved relative, in order to say “hello” to the unknown? Will we hold an attitude that says not, “I would go if it were God’s will” (if I have to, I guess), but rather, “I would go if it were God’s will!” (sign me up and count me in)? After all, a trip planned by the Father is bound to be good!
The steps of a man are established by the Lord, and He delights in his way. When he falls, he will not be hurled headlong, because the Lord is the One who holds his hand. – Psalm 37:23-24
Everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or farms for My name’s sake, will receive many times as much, and will inherit eternal life. – Matthew 19:29b
My State of Contentment is not Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, or Montana. No, my State of Contentment is anyplace I would go…as God doth lead me. What say you, Damsel?
Affirmation #2: As God Doth Lead…
As God doth lead I am content; I rest me calmly in His hands; That which He has decreed and sent– That which His will for me commands, I would that He should all fulfill: That I should do His gracious will In living or in dying.
The American Heritage® Dictionary defines the adjective “content” as: desiring no more than what one has; satisfied; ready to accept or acquiesce; willing. Gedicke’s idea of contentment appears to be right on par with the folks at American Heritage®. When one desires no more than what they have – as opposed to seeking for “more, more, more” – they can rest calmly. When one chooses to be satisfied – as opposed to feeling sorry for themselves – they can take in stride whatever God decrees and sends. When one is ready to accept or acquiesce – as opposed to demanding their own way – they can humbly say “not my will, but thine.” When one is willing – as opposed to headstrong – they can consecrate their life, and even death, to the cause of Christ. Contentment is letting Jesus take the wheel, while being a joyful passenger.
Do we foster an overall spirit of contentment, whether in the staying or in the going? I am reminded of The Clash’s hit song, Should I Stay, or Should I Go? In the song, the male protagonist asks his intended, “Should I stay or should I go now? If I go, there will be trouble. And if I stay, it will be double. So ya gotta let me know. Should I stay, or should I go?” As the band pointed out, going can be troublesome, and staying can be even more troublesome. There is no relationship on earth without some troubles, and likewise, there is no location on earth without some troubles. The only way to be completely happy in any place is to be content. Content to stay, content to go, content to live, content to die…content in the Lord.
For if we live, we live for the Lord, or if we die, we die for the Lord; therefore whether we live or die, we are the Lord’s. – Romans 14:8
Therefore I am well content with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, with difficulties, for Christ’s sake; for when I am weak, then I am strong. – 2 Corinthians 12:10
My State of Contentment is not Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, or New York. No, my State of Contentment is anyplace I am content…as God doth lead. What say you, Damsel?
Affirmation #3: As God Doth Lead…
As God doth lead I all resign; I trust me to my Father’s will; When reason’s rays deceptive shine, His counsel would I yet fulfill– That which His love ordained as right, Before He brought me to the light,– My all to Him resigning.
To “resign” means to give up. Synonyms of “resign” include: yield, submit, relinquish, surrender, and abandon. Those are some heavy words! How can Gedicke claim to yield all, submit all, relinquish all, surrender all, and abandon all? The answer is in the second line of the verse: by trusting in God’s will. In order to choose God’s counsel – over our own futile reasoning – we have to trust. In order to choose what is right – over our own personal desires – we have to trust. In order to “all resign” – we have to trust. I once saw a touching graphic of a little girl handing over her wee teddy bear to Jesus. “But I love it” she says tearfully, hanging her head as Jesus extends His hand to receive her small sacrifice. With his other hand, Jesus is holding a surprise behind His back: a huge teddy bear tied up with a ribbon. Once the little girl relinquishes her old teddy, she has something bigger and better waiting for her. But first, she must trust.
How many times in life have we been denied “the big teddy bear” God desired to surprise us with, only because we refused to surrender “the little teddy bear”? How many times have we clung so fiercely to old hopes and dreams that we left no room for new opportunities? How many times have we allowed a lack of trust to block the blessings that could have been ours? Whether God calls us to give up our present location so that we might move away, or give up our desire to move away so that we might stay in our present location, trusting in Him is the key. It’s okay to ask, seek, and knock in favor of the direction you want to go, but don’t try to force God’s hand. Walk only through the doors He opens, and resign the rest.
But whatever things were gain to me, those things I have counted as loss for the sake of Christ. More than that, I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them but rubbish so that I may gain Christ. – Philippians 3:7-8
All these blessings will come upon you and overtake you if you obey the Lord your God: “Blessed shall you be in the city, and blessed shall you be in the country…“Blessed shall you be when you come in, and blessed shall you be when you go out.” – Deuteronomy 28:2-3, 6
My State of Contentment is not North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, or Pennsylvania. No, my State of Contentment is anyplace I all resign…as God doth lead. What say you, Damsel?
Affirmation #4: As God Doth Lead Me…
As God doth lead me I abide, In faith, in hope, is suffering true; His strength is ever by my side– Can aught my hold on Him undo? So patiently I wait and know That God, who doth my life bestow, In kindness all is sending.
To “abide” is to remain in a place. The word can also speak of bearing, tolerating, and enduring. Gedicke’s usage of the word “abide” certainly carries this connotation, as he goes on to mention suffering in the next line. He connects faith and hope with suffering, a hard (but biblical) truth. He takes comfort in God’s strength and knows that no amount of suffering can rip him from God’s hands. He waits patiently through the trials that are before him. He identifies God as the kind author of his life, and chooses to believe that the story God is writing (though it admittedly contains heartbreaking chapters) is for his ultimate good. Returning to the basic definition of abide, sometimes it is necessary for a Christian to hunker down in a particular location, even if that location adds suffering to their lives. Sometimes, for various reasons, moving away isn’t an option. Sometimes, there is no way out…only through. Sometimes, we must abide.
Even if “home is where the hurt is” (I gleaned this clever phrase from U2’s song, “Walk On”) contentment can still be ours. You’re probably familiar with the famous expression, “bloom where you are planted”. It may be a cliché piece of advice, but that doesn’t make it any less sound. “But flowers can’t bloom under unfavorable conditions” you might say. That’s true, but then again, flowers are not indwelt by God’s Holy Spirit. In the same way that Paul and Silas could “bloom” in the prison cell in which they were “planted”, so too can we survive – even thrive – in our own miserable environments. If God wills (or allows) us to live in a prison, we owe it to Him to offer the best version of ourselves possible within the confines of that cell.
Therefore, those also who suffer according to the will of God shall entrust their souls to a faithful Creator in doing what is right. – 1 Peter 4:19
For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. – Romans 8:38-39
My State of Contentment is not Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, or Utah. No, my State of Contentment is anyplace I abide…as God doth lead me. What say you, Damsel?
Affirmation #5: As God Doth Lead…
As God doth lead I onward go, Though oft ‘mid thorns and briers keen; God does not yet His guidance show– But in the end it shall be seen How, by a loving Father’s will, Faithful and true, He leads me still,– Thus anchored, faith is resting.
“Onward” is defined as “moving in a forward direction; tending toward a contemplated or desirable end”. Gedicke goes out with a bang, concluding his hymn with a positive, hopeful outlook on his journey. Sure, he knows that his path will have many a thorn and brier along the way. He also recognizes that there will be things he doesn’t understand about God’s plan for his life. However, he doesn’t allow himself to be discouraged; he keeps his eyes on the prize. He is confident that he will one day, at that “contemplated, desirable end”, understand the Father’s will. After all, God has always shown Himself to be a leader that is faithful and true in times past, why would He fail to do so now? With that doubt-dispelling, anchoring thought, Gedicke subtly inspires us to step forward on our own spiritual journeys…onward and upward.
It will serve us well to remember that there is a “new world order” coming that far surpasses this present age. Many folks spend too much time worrying about what “state” (location/place) they will live in on this side of eternity, and not near enough time worrying about what “state” (condition/circumstance) they will live in on the other side. Regardless of your feelings toward the current location you call home, don’t let those feelings distract you from the eternal home that matters most. You may not be able to choose where you live now, but the good news is: you can choose where you live forever! Obey the gospel today to begin your journey onward and homeward. (See Mark 16:16.)
Now if we have died with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with Him. – Romans 6:8
According to His promise we are looking for new heavens and a new earth, in which righteousness dwells. – 2 Peter 3:13b
My State of Contentment is not Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, or Wyoming. No, my State of Contentment is the place I onward go…as God doth lead. What say you, Damsel?
In conclusion…
Regardless of which one of the 50 states you find yourself in, you can be in a state of contentmentright where you are. (The same goes for any street, town, county, region, country, or continent for that matter!)
Remember: a state of contentment is not a physical locale, but a frame of mind.
Lampertus Gedicke gave us 5 powerful affirmations that can help us enter a state of contentment if we will believe and claim these truths as our own:
As God doth lead me I would go.
As God doth lead I am content.
As God doth lead I all resign.
As God doth lead me I abide.
As God doth lead I onward go.
I want to proclaim, like the Apostle Paul:
I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.
What say you, Damsel?
For God’s glory, Mrs. Dustin Bolks
Chaste Bolks is a church of Christ preacher’s wife, and the home educating mother of two children. She and her family currently reside in Northwest Iowa.
She’s blood, flesh and bone No tucks or silicone She’s touch, smell, sight, taste, and sound But somehow I can’t believe That anything should happen I know where I belong And nothing’s going to happen
‘Cause she’s so high High above me She’s so lovely She’s so high Like Cleopatra Joan of Arc Or Aphrodite She’s so high High above me
First class and fancy free She’s high society She’s got the best of everything
What could a guy like me Ever really offer? She’s perfect as she can be Why should I even bother?
‘Cause she’s so high High above me She’s so lovely She’s so high Like Cleopatra Joan of Arc Or Aphrodite She’s so high High above me
She comes to speak to me I freeze immediately ‘Cause what she says sounds so unreal ‘Cause somehow I can’t believe That anything should happen I know where I belong And nothing’s gonna happen
‘Cause she’s so high High above me She’s so lovely She’s so high Like Cleopatra Joan of Arc Or Aphrodite Oh, yeah She’s so high High above me
These lyrics are from the 1999 one-hit-wonder, “She’s So High” written and performed by Tal Bachman. The once chart-topping hit resonates with men and women alike: men, because they long to have a dream girl, women, because they long to be a dream girl. And while the song could be interpreted by some as a feminist anthem, implying that women are superior to men (i.e. “she’s so high above me”), I don’t think that’s what the artist was trying to convey with the song. In any case, it certainly is not what I am trying to convey by the quoting thereof. I view “She’s So High” as a song about a love-struck man who is absolutely beside himself with admiration and adoration of a high caliber lady…a man so smitten that he can’t believe that a girl like her would ever give him so much as a passing glance…a man that would feel like the most fortunate guy on earth to obtain his very own “Cleopatra, Joan of Arc, or Aphrodite”.
Do you long for a man to feel this way about you? Whether you are a single woman looking for Mr. Right to fall madly in love with her, a wife desiring to rekindle her husband’s long-lost passion for her, or a wife who simply wants to step up her game and make her already adoring husband go even more wild for her, then today is your lucky day. This month’s blog will cover the five essential traits a woman needs in order to capture (and subsequently, keep) a man’s attention. We are going to learn what it means to be “sense-able” wives. (And I assure you, I haven’t forgotten how to spell!) See, Tal Bachman twigged on to one very important truth when he penned the line, “she’s touch, smell, sight, taste, and sound“. He was pointing out the fact that a red-blooded man will go bonkers over a woman who appeals to his 5 senses – the kind of woman I like to call a “sense-able” wife. The first way to ignite the 5 senses of a man is by cultivating…
The first sense Tal Bachman brings to our attention in his song “She’s So High” is the sense of touch.
A sense-able wife knows that her tender, provocative caress has the power to captivate her husband and unlock his deepest affections. She recognizes that his masculine desires are meant to be fulfilled by her – and only by her – and thus considers presenting her body to him as her sacred duty and privilege. She is never repulsed by his advances, but willingly touches him (and accepts his touch) “all day, every day”.
If you’ve followed my blog for very long, you probably know that I am an advocate for daily sex between husbands and wives. I would consider this my #1 tip for women (well, aside from the should-be-obvious: marry a Christian man). However, touch is not exclusively about lovemaking. Touch also includes a myriad of other advances, such as: holding his hand, kissing him, tickling him, scratching him, massaging him, grazing him, grabbing him, laying on him, pressing on him, cuddling him, performing fellatio on him, etc.
Anytime you are sitting next to your husband or walking by him, slip your hand into his. Kiss him throughout the day, with both playful kisses and passionate kisses. When you pass by him, tickle his exposed skin, such as his neck and arms. When you watch movies together, scratch or massage his bare back. Seduce him throughout the day by grazing his thighs and abdomen. Make him go crazy for you by grabbing his masculine parts at random times. Lay on him in bed (nude, preferably). Spontaneously press your breasts onto him when you have a moment alone. Cuddle up to him and wrap his arms around you. Pleasure him with your mouth. Make love to him on a daily basis. To put it bluntly: a husband and wife should be as physical as two horny teenagers with no parental supervision. (Please don’t misunderstand my point — unmarried teens should not be indulging in physical intimacy –but this is the sad reality of “a child left to himself”. My point is that married couples should not be “outdone” by promiscuous youths.)
Single ladies: while there are few chaste ways to touch a man who is not your husband, capitalize on those chaste touches afforded you. Show your hands to be feminine, soft, and warm, yet maintain healthy physical boundaries. (A good rule of thumb is this: single women should touch men they are not married to only in ways that would be appropriate for married women to touch men they are not married to. This doesn’t mean “no touching”, but rather, “no romantic touching”. Promote the purity of yourself and the men around you by only allowing physical contact that is sisterly, not wifely. For example, gently touching a brother’s arm during conversation would be appropriate, while kissing and cuddling a brother would obviously be inappropriate. Reserve all romantic touches for marriage.) Wives: when you make an effort to touch your husband throughout the day, you will remind him that you are the girl of his dreams. He will see you as so much more than some live-in companion who washes his laundry…he will instead see you as his tantalizing temptress, his entrancing enchantress, his spellbinding seductress…one who is “so high”. Additional tip: husbands love it when you “force” them to touch you in all your feminine places…trust me.
If you would be your man’s “Cleopatra, Joan of Arc, or Aphrodite”, be sure to speak to his sense of touch.
When I found him whom my soul loves; I held on to him and would not let him go. – Song of Solomon 3:4b
The second way to ignite the 5 senses of a man is by cultivating…
The second sense Tal Bachman brings to our attention in his song “She’s So High” is the sense of smell.
A sense-able wife knows that her inviting, alluring fragrance will indelibly imprint on her husband’s mind. She recognizes that smell and memory are closely connected, and uses this to her advantage. She crafts a beautiful aroma that her husband comes to associate with her. Every time her man smells that unique and wonderful scent, he will be reminded of his woman and inexplicably drawn to re-experience her presence.
It must be said, first and foremost, that practicing good hygiene is paramount in order to have a truly pleasing aroma. Without the base foundation of cleanliness, any product added to one’s body is only masking odor, rather than cultivating a sweet savor. Washing your body and brushing your teeth should both be parts of your daily routine. And don’t neglect to launder your clothes regularly, as fabric can harbor unpleasant smells, not to mention bacteria. Applying a good (aluminum-free) deodorant is also significant, especially during the warmer months. Let’s face it, human beings can get awfully smelly. Our bodies require habitual maintenance just to stay “passable”. But aside from your basic hygiene, which is essentially damage control, creating an appealing fragrance demands more than the minimum amount of effort. Being “first class, fancy free, and high society” involves going above and beyond the call of duty.
The way you smell comes primarily from 1.) your skin, 2.) your hair, and 3.) your breath. You want to be the whole package? Be sure all three smell incredible, and your man is going to find you positively irresistible.
For good smelling skin, one must start with a good smelling soap. Specifically, soaps that work into a good lather have the strongest and longest lasting fragrance. (And ladies, don’t be sparing when it comes to soaping up…prudence is an important virtue, but your shower is not the place to be chintzy.) Another great way to achieve good smelling (and very soft) skin is by taking an Epsom salt bath. Scented lotion is yet another important aspect of fragrance building. Lastly, applying a perfume or body spray that appeals to your husband is going to make your skin smell marvelous. The vast majority of men enjoy “gourmand” scents – the ones that smell good enough to eat. (i.e. vanilla, chocolate, fruit, candy, baked goods, etc.).
For good smelling hair, one must start with a good smelling shampoo and conditioner. As with soaps, you want hair products that work into a good lather, distributing a lovely fragrance to each and every strand. Hair oil is another way to keep your hair smelling fabulous (and furthermore, looking sleek and shiny!). Lastly, don’t underestimate the scent of your heat protector. Such a spray is likely the last product that touches your head in your hair care routine, and its smell will linger in your hair…so make it a good one!
For good smelling breath, one must start with a good smelling toothpaste. Bubble gum or fruity flavors may smell amazing in the tube, but nothing seems to cut down on bad breath like good old-fashioned mint toothpaste. Flossing is also a must for removing hard-to-reach plaque which contributes to odor. What you eat goes a long way in how your breath smells, too. Some foods (here’s looking at you, garlic) make one’s breath reek in spite of dental hygiene. Gross! Lastly, chewing-gum and mints are your friends.
Single ladies and wives alike will garner a man’s attention when their scent is to-die-for. A woman with a pleasant fragrance sends the message that she values herself and others. Additional tip: a good smelling home is a wonderful place to find respite. A scented candle can go a long way in making a home a haven.
If you would be your man’s “Cleopatra, Joan of Arc, or Aphrodite”, be sure to speak to his sense of smell.
While the king was at his table, my perfume gave forth its fragrance. – Song of Solomon 1:12
The third way to ignite the 5 senses of a man is by cultivating…
The third sense Tal Bachman brings to our attention in his song “She’s So High” is the sense of sight.
A sense-able wife knows that her radiant, arresting appearance will turn the head of her husband. She recognizes that men are visual creatures, and thus endeavors to make herself a sight to behold for her man. She is not complacent when it comes to her looks, but puts great thought and skill into preparing and presenting the best version of herself. Ever the woman, she leans into her feminine attribute: beauty.
Considering that what is perceived as “beautiful” can vary greatly from one man to another, it is crucial for a woman to curate a look that appeals to her man. Some husbands are very vocal about what they do and don’t like; some will not share their opinions unless asked directly; some will not share their opinions at all, and can only be observed for favorable or unfavorable reactions. No matter which personality type your husband has, you will be able to ascertain his wishes if you are willing to learn your man and mold to him.
One thing that all men would agree that they want to see from their woman is effort. Any wife actively trying to look her best is already in a category above the rest. Sure, there might be days when you are in a hurry and don’t have time to dress to the nines and doll yourself up like a movie star. But is haphazardly slapping together an outfit, donning a mom bun, and going au naturale the norm, or the exception in your life? If ever your husband’s daily view becomes a frumpy, dumpy wife: Houston, we have a problem.
How you look is in great part due to what you wear. Even the plainest woman can look like a million bucks if she puts in the effort, aligns with her husband’s style preferences, and focuses on looking her best by playing off of her most charming features. Wearing clothes that a.) are tailored to your body (neither too tight nor too loose) and b.) enhance your womanliness (rather than conceal your lovely feminine figure) will always elevate your look, regardless of style. It’s also good to know what colors look best with your skin tone so you can shop accordingly. Accessories are an important aspect of any outfit, sending the message that you are a woman who pays attention to details. Hats, gloves, scarves, headbands, sunglasses, and jewelry are all pieces that can add flair to your overall look. A nice pair of shoes is the icing on the cake.
Aside from the clothing side of things, a man wants to see his woman taking care of her hair, skin, and nails. When it comes to hair: some men like it straight, some men like it wavy, some men like it curly; some like black, some like brown, some like red, some like blonde; some like it longer, some like it shorter; some like your hair up, some like your hair down. When it comes to skin: some men like it fair, some men like it tanned; some like a full face of makeup, some like a minimalist look; some like it tattooed, some like it untouched. When it comes to nails: some like them painted, some like them bare; some like them long, some like them short; some like them oval shaped, some like them square shaped. Men’s tastes vary. As I pointed out previously, the one thing all men care about is the effort you put in. The bottom line is this: are your hair, skin, and nails healthy? And are you presenting them in a way that pleases your husband?
Beyond clothing, hair, skin, and nails, is your body language. Do you smile frequently, showing that you are kind and approachable? Do you have a posture that exudes elegance and confidence? Do you walk in a womanly way? Do you sit down in a delicate manner? Do you practice slow and deliberate movements? Utilizing body language in a way that is refined and sophisticated will upgrade your look astronomically.
Single ladies and wives who put effort into their appearance will always warrant a second look from a man. On the conscious level, a man who sees a drop-dead-gorgeous woman sees a stunning vision – he’ll want to see more where that came from. On the subconscious level, a man who sees a woman that takes care of herself sees “wife material” – for a woman that can take care of herself is surely a woman that can take care of her husband and children. Additional tip (one that may ruffle some feathers): A trim physique is a key component of looking your best. “Letting yourself go” will diminish your beauty like nothing else.
If you would be your man’s “Cleopatra, Joan of Arc, or Aphrodite”, be sure to speak to his sense of sight.
You are altogether beautiful, my darling, and there is no blemish in you. – Song of Solomon 4:7
The fourth way to ignite the 5 senses of a man is by cultivating…
The fourth sense Tal Bachman brings to our attention in his song “She’s So High” is the sense of taste.
A sense-able wife knows that her appetizing, succulent flavor will make her husband’s mouth water. She recognizes that “wining and dining” her man causes him to connect her company with pleasure. Whether her husband settles in to feast upon her food or her figure, he can expect to be be treated to a fine dining experience each and every time. What she has to offer is not only satisfying and satiating, but sensational.
It has long been said that, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach”. And while I would argue that there is a much more direct route to your husband’s heart (read: below the belt), don’t be too quick to dismiss food altogether as a means of romantic bonding. Consider this: when two or more individuals (even strangers) dine together, sharing mutual enjoyment over a scrumptious meal, a sort of “agreement” occurs. Though the diners may have little else in common, they are forced to acquiesce on one point: their mutually satisfied palate. If this sort of shallow, surface bonding can occur between persons of mere acquaintance, how much more can a shared dining experience unify the hearts of two individuals who are romantically inclined? It’s no surprise that restaurants continue to be a favored destination of courting couples, generation after generation. Tasty food has always been, and will always be, a bonding agent.
Now, don’t be discouraged if cuisine cooking isn’t your forte. One typically doesn’t have to be a gourmet chef in order to titillate her man’s taste buds…she simply needs to serve food that he enjoys. Whether you painstakingly prepare a 7 course meal, fry up some meat and potatoes, or pop a TV dinner into the microwave, as long as you’re cooking to your husband’s desires, you’re going to have a happy man. The average guy is concerned about two things when it comes to his mealtimes: the flavor and the fellowship. Make the flavor delicious and the fellowship delightful, and a meal with you will feel like heaven on earth.
To add a sense of romanticism, identify at least one food or beverage that you and your man particularly enjoy, and reserve that special treat for your alone time together. Maybe it’s an exotic fruit, a chocolate bar, a pasta dish, a flavored tea, or a sparkling water that feels luxurious when shared with your lover. If you save such luxuries for those occasions when it’s just you and him, it will serve to enhance your time of togetherness. A shared cooking experience (if your husband is interested in such) can also bring an extra layer of enjoyment to a meal. Try new things every now and again, and attempt to activate his every taste bud by experimenting with different combinations of the five flavors: sweet, salty, savory, sour, and bitter.
Of course, food isn’t the only thing a man is interested in tasting from his woman. At the end of the day, anyone can lawfully satisfy your husband’s appetite for a woman’s food – but only you can lawfully satisfy his appetite for a woman’s figure. Let him get a taste of your luscious lips and your sultry secrets. When it comes to luscious lips: apply a delectable lip gloss, and it will send your husband over the moon when he tastes it. When it comes to sultry secrets: your husband wants to taste you – so keep it fresh down there at all times – you just never know when that man will have the overwhelming desire to get a taste of “girl”!
Single ladies and wives can both have the satisfaction of nurturing a man by serving him tasty victuals. But that is where the comparison ends; all other tasting should be off limits until wedding bells have rung! Additional tip: if a man asks you which restaurant you want to eat at, he values your opinions. Give them.
If you would be your man’s “Cleopatra, Joan of Arc, or Aphrodite”, be sure to speak to his sense of taste.
Your lips, my bride, drip honey; honey and milk are under your tongue. – Song of Solomon 4:11a
The fifth and final way to ignite the 5 senses of a man is by cultivating…
The last (fifth) sense Tal Bachman brings to our attention in his song “She’s So High” is the sense of sound.
A sense-able wife knows that her gentle, soothing voice is like sweet music to her husband’s ears. She recognizes that the way she speaks to her husband, down to the very tone of her voice, communicates whether she holds a low view of him or a high esteem for him. She expresses herself in a calm, cool, and composed manner in every situation, and doesn’t harp or nag as women of lesser caliber are wont to do.
No one can choose their voice box, but everyone can choose their voice. Your voice box is something you are created with; your voice is something you create with. Almost everyone cringes at the sound of their own voice, but it doesn’t have to be that way. You are the one seated at the sound control panel. You are in charge of setting the volume, pitch, rate, articulation, enunciation, and tone of your speech. Practice bettering each vocal aspect, and over time your voice will become more polished and pristine. Even if you only level up one area per month, in merely six months time the quality of your voice will have improved exponentially. In short order, you will no longer cringe at the sound of your voice…nor will your husband!
Aim for steadiness in your speech patterns. Speak at a steady volume – erring on the quiet side – but don’t speak so quietly that your husband is forced to continually ask you to repeat yourself. Speak at a steady rate – erring on the slow side – but don’t speak so slowly that you bore the man to tears. Speak at a steady pitch – erring on the girlish side – but don’t speak so girlishly that it sounds phony to his ears. Speak with a steady articulation and enunciation – erring on the proper side – but don’t speak so properly that you outshine his level of formality. Speak with a steady tone – erring on the timid side – but don’t speak so timidly that you can’t get a little feisty and frisky with him sometimes. Don’t overthink – just keep it steady!
Aside from your speech patterns, is your speech itself. What kind of words does your husband hear coming out of your lips? Do you use a broad vocabulary, indicating that you are intellectual; or do you speak in a way that is crude and unrefined? Do you talk about positive things, indicating that you are joyful; or do you constantly grumble and complain? Do you limit your chatter, indicating that you are contemplative; or do you let your mouth run non-stop? Your man will be prone to seek your society if he associates you with intellect, joyfulness, and contemplation. Make your speech worth listening to.
Single ladies and wives can both “soothe the savage beast” when they speak in a pleasant, feminine manner. Too many women are gruff and churlish in their speech patterns and their speech itself. If, in contrast, your speech patterns and speech are lovely and ladylike, you’ll surely stand out from the crowd. Additional tip: learn to sing in a sexy tone for your husband…men have always found a “siren” irresistible.
If you would be your man’s “Cleopatra, Joan of Arc, or Aphrodite”, be sure to speak to his sense of sound.
Let me hear your voice; for your voice is sweet. – Song of Solomon 2:14b
In conclusion…
If you would ignite the 5 senses of your man, then you must cultivate:
A Sense-Able Touch. A Sense-Able Smell. A Sense-Able Sight. A Sense-Able Taste. A Sense-Able Sound.
Lest anyone dismiss these as frivolous efforts, I would remind you that Christian wives are directed to “be subject to our own husbands as to the Lord”. Imagine you were in the physical presence of Jesus Christ: would you make it a priority to cultivate a beautiful touch, smell, sight, taste, and sound for Him? Or would you dismiss speaking to His senses as mere frivolity? Ladies, there’s no two ways about it: in the most pragmatic sense, impressing our husbands is how we impress Jesus. If we dismiss the calling to be sense-able wives to our husbands, thinking that we must instead pursue some “holier” ministry, we are sadly missing the point on what it means to be a Christian of the female variety. You know, all Christian women want to impress Jesus and hear His glorious words, “well done, good and faithful slave”. Yet how many Christian woman want to impress their husband and hear his glorious words, “she’s touch, smell, sight, taste, and sound”? If you are a sense-able wife – on account of love for God and your husband – these words really mean quite the same thing. Want to impress Jesus? I adjure you, wives, be sense-able!
The King will answer and say to them,Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did it to one of these brothers of Mine, even the least of them [far less your husband!],you did it to Me. – Matthew 25:40
For God’s glory, Mrs. Dustin Bolks
Chaste Bolks is a church of Christ preacher’s wife, and the home educating mother of two children. She and her family currently reside in Northwest Iowa.
