Don't deprive one another
“Do not deprive one another except perhaps by agreement for a set time, to devote yourselves to prayer, and then come together again” (1 Cor 7:5).
For context, this verse is straight up about sex.
I heard it differently today, though, when it flitted through my brain.
During Covid, Aaron and I have demanded so much of one another and depended so much on one another. There are gifts therein, but also sacrifices. We’ve had to learn how to ask for what we need, honestly ask, instead of leaving room for resentment and strain.
I’ve learned in the process how sweet it can be to hear how I can love him. It can be the best thing I hear all day, my husband trusting me enough to say, “I’m feeling tired, do you mind if I take 10 minutes to myself?”
Don’t deprive one another of anything, but especially not the joy of sharing the burden.