When the purpose of something is known the fullness of its beauty and goodness can be appreciated. For example, the full value of a pen can be experienced when it is used for writing, its created purpose. It might be used for other things such as scratching your back or drumming on your desk. However, because it was not created for these things, its excellence would be missed if these were the only reasons it was used.
The same is true of our sexuality. We engage in this wonderful dance of the sexes, but rarely pause to reflect on its purpose. Why did God create sexuality? Once we can get a glimpse of its purpose we are in a better position to experience fulfillment. On the other hand, many sexual frustrations are the result of missing the created design.
Some of the difficulty in discovering the purpose of sexuality is assuming sexuality is synonymous with sex. While sex is about what we do, particularly with our genitals, sexuality is more about who we are as males and as females. We are sexual beings even if we are not having sex. This is witnessed in the young and old alike.
A little boy playing the part of a superhero or a little girl twirling in her Easter dress, for example, are not thinking about “sex” per se. However, they are still expressing their deep sexuality as male and female respectively. Likewise, true grand fathers and grand mothers retain their masculine and feminine energy even once they pass the “childbearing years.”
Our sexuality runs deep. It is part of our essence, which includes but goes beyond mere sex.
To understand the purpose of sex it is best to step back and consider the larger frame of sexuality. When we know its purpose it will be easier to understand and fully enjoy our sexual expressions.
Take some time and reflect on the following question.
Why did God create sexuality? (Read my take here.)
This would be a great conversation to also have with your spouse. It helps when you can both be on the same page, or at least know each other’s perspective. Check out the post Let’s Talk about S-E-X for additional questions.
What do you think? Have you ever considered why God created sexuality? Is there a difference between sexuality and sex? What do you think is the purpose sexuality?