Kisses are important to a marriage. The expression “sealed with a kiss” (SWAK) probably came from the tradition of a bride and groom sharing a kiss in front of witnesses at the conclusion of their wedding ceremony.

Some couples, exercising the ultimate in self-control, wait to kiss each other for the very first time after they’re officially declared husband and wife. I can’t even imagine the emotions running through both of them when they seal the deal with such potency, but surely it makes for a great start to a marriage.

Because kisses require face-to-face contact or at least head-to-head with cheek kisses, it’s difficult to kiss someone if anything negative hangs between you. That’s probably why Scripture encourages husbands and wives not to end the day, every day, without first clearing the air between them.

If couples follow this one rule, no grudge can last longer than a few hours, no argument grow out of proportion before being settled. And getting into the habit of sharing a goodnight kiss is an excellent step toward keeping short accounts with each other.

Ephesians 4:26 tells us not to end the day while we’re angry, especially with each other. When resentments fester, they make it difficult to rest well anyway. Kisses often melt away frosty feelings and make restoration more probable. But even more importantly, the next verse tells what will happen if we hold onto disagreements at bedtime: “Anger gives a foothold to the devil.” No sensible husband or wife would willingly pull Satan into their marriage that way.

Kisses can do all kinds of things for a relationship. Romans 16:16 tells us to greet each other with holy kisses, which elevates kissing to a spiritual level. Maybe each time we plant a sincerely loving kiss on someone, it’s a tiny act of holiness, a mini-deed with significance to God. I know it’s especially so between husbands and wives. Marriage is important to the Lord, as is loving behavior, and holiness is something he wants us all to strive for. Apparently kisses can improve all three.

When we widows said goodbye to our husbands, lots of kisses went away with them. But for those still fortunate enough to be married, may each day be SWAK!

“Rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you. Greet one another with a holy kiss.”  (2 Corinthians 13:11-12)