What does Proverbs 5:19 mean?

Despite what some might think, Scripture does not shy away from the concepts of sexuality and pleasure. Rather, the Bible establishes them in the context of monogamous marriage between a man and woman. That joy and happiness is encouraged, here as in other passages.

A husband should picture his wife as lovely as a deer and as graceful as a doe. He should always delight in her breasts and be intoxicated always in her love. In the Song of Solomon, Solomon addresses his beloved as beautiful. He refers to her breasts as "like two fawns, twins of a gazelle, that graze among the lilies" (Song of Solomon 4:5), and he declares, "You have captivated my heart, my sister, my bride; you have captivated my heart with one glance of your eyes" (Song of Solomon 4:9). Those unfamiliar with these passages may find those depictions awkward or uncomfortable. But Proverbs and Song of Solomon show that God considers physical attraction and conjugal love within a marriage as beautiful and commendable.

The difference between sexual love in marriage and sensual lust in adultery is striking. The former is lifelong; the latter is momentary and fleeting. The former is satisfying; the latter is destructive. God instituted marriage between a man and a woman as a lifelong, loving partnership. When an adulterer breaks the bond of that partnership, pain and remorse fill his soul.