What Love Does: Embracing the Gift of Intimacy in Marriage
What Love Does: Embracing the Gift of Intimacy in Marriage
You might wonder why intimacy in marriage is such a big deal. Well, if you’re like most people, you’ve probably noticed that our culture is obsessed with love and relationships. But here’s the thing: true intimacy, the kind that God designed for marriage, is so much more than what we often see portrayed in movies or on TV. It’s about a deep connection beyond the physical, touching our lives, emotional and spiritual aspects. So, how do we cultivate this kind of intimacy in our marriages?
The main point of our recent sermon was that intimacy in marriage is a precious gift from God, meant to be cherished and nurtured. It’s not just about physical attraction or romantic gestures; it’s about building a relationship that reflects God’s love and commitment. This kind of intimacy takes time, effort, and a willingness to be vulnerable with one another. It’s about letting your spouse see into the depths of who you are and trusting them with your heart.
Building Intimacy: A Journey, Not a Destination
- Treasure Your Marriage: The first step in building intimacy is to honor and treasure your marriage. Think of it as a precious jewel you want to protect and showcase. When you place your marriage in a position of honor, it becomes evident to others and sets the tone for how you treat each other. This means prioritizing your relationship and clarifying that your spouse is a top priority in your life.
- Remain Faithful: Faithfulness is the foundation of intimacy. It’s about keeping the marriage bed pure and being committed to your spouse. This means not just avoiding infidelity but also being emotionally and spiritually faithful. It’s about being there for each other, supporting one another, and building a life that honors God.
- Communicate Openly: Communication is key to intimacy. It’s about sharing your dreams, fears, and expectations. When you communicate openly, you build trust and understanding, which are essential for a strong marriage. Don’t be afraid to talk about the tough stuff; remember that being vulnerable with your spouse is okay.
- Embrace the Messiness: Marriage is two messy people coming together to pursue Jesus. It’s not always going to be perfect, and that’s okay. Embrace the messiness and offer grace and forgiveness to each other. Remember, sinners need God’s grace; let that grace guide your relationship.
- Keep Christ at the Center: A strong marriage is one where Christ is at the center. When you both focus on your relationship with God, it strengthens your relationship with each other. Pray together, read the Bible together, and seek God’s guidance in your marriage. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken, and when Christ is that third strand, your marriage will be stronger for it.
Conclusion
The point is intimacy in marriage is a journey, not a destination. It’s about continually growing closer to your spouse and God. So, what will you do this week to nurture intimacy in your marriage? Will you take the time to communicate openly, honor your spouse, and keep Christ at the center of your relationship? Remember, without taking these steps, you might miss the fullness of what God has designed for your marriage.
Prayer
Lord, thank You for the gift of intimacy in marriage. Help us to cherish and nurture this gift, building a relationship that reflects Your love and commitment. Guide us to communicate openly, remain faithful, and keep You at the center of our marriage. Amen.