Exodus 20:14 You shall not commit adultery.

When I got married, I started wearing a wedding ring because I didn't want to be asked out, or have men bother me anymore. I have since discovered how naive I was to think the ring would stop men. It does stop most men and it also prevents a man from asking me out and then becoming embarrassed when he finds out he's asked out a married woman. However, I have discovered that there are men who don't care if I'm married or if they're married. I am always surprised when this happens. Even though several times I've had men say things they have no business saying to me, or act in some other manner that is inappropriate, I still am shocked each time and usually stand there with my mouth hanging open, unable to think of a response.

I am not a beautiful woman. I've even put on weight since getting married. My hair has decided to develop gray streaks, although I usually refer them as natural highlights. I am, however, an out-going and very friendly person and every now and then my friendly personality will attract the wrong type of person. Because of my experiences, and because of things people have said to me, I have learned that it is considered socially acceptable to step out on your spouse once in a while. In some circles it's considered modern, vogue, or trendy to be having an affair.

Since we're talking about social skills and how to get along in society, this is one of the areas where the Bible goes against society's rules, and it is so very accurate in it's teaching. I have yet to see a happy ending to an affair. Usually several people are hurt by an affair. And to be truly honest, it doesn't matter how vogue society considers it, the only people who adulterous people can get along with, are other adulterous people, and they don't really respect or trust each other.

The people who are respected, trusted, and who are able to get along with all types of people are the ones who remain faithful to their spouses, do all they can to protect their marriages, and invite God in their marriage to keep it pure.

Adultery is more than having a physical relationship. An adulterous heart is just as bad. Look at Matthew 5:27-28;

You have heard that it was said to the ancients: "Do not commit adultery."

But I say to you, Everyone looking at a woman to lust after her has already committed adultery with her in his heart.

Lusting after another, having fantasies about another, and making inappropriate comments to someone is having an adulterous heart. I don't care if some lady is walking by in a skimpy outfit, or if a guy is working in his yard and showing off his bare chest, big biceps, and looking like something that walked out of a romance novel, LOOK THE OTHER WAY! There is no need to take another look. There is no such thing as a harmless look. That so called harmless look is where lusting starts. I suggest that it's better to take a second look at the things that attract you to your spouse. There is no love in adultery, fantasies, or “harmless looks”. But a marriage that is guarded and filled with God is a marriage full of love, where both people find each other deeply attractive. I can honestly say that there is no one who I find more attractive than my husband. No movie star or anyone else comes even close to being the man my husband is. My husband doesn't need perfect lighting, theater make-up, or an exciting role in a movie to look good. He is handsome! My husband is a good man, who loves the Lord, and does all he can to protect our marriage. Because we have guarded our marriage so carefully, we have eyes only for each other and it shows to those around us. People respect us and our marriage, and they trust us. Even the very ones who behaved so inappropriately towards me have also come to respect us and treat our marriage with respect. It doesn't matter what society says, God's word always rings true.

For further reading go to:
Adultery of the Heart
Fidelity in Marriage
Love is...