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Week 3 | Day 12: 7 Mar - Basis of Marriage – Intimacy and Self-giving


Scripture:

The man said, “This is now bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called ‘woman’ for she was taken out of man. That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh.”

(Genesis 2:23-24)


Devotion:

The two became ONE FLESH. They naturally give themselves to each other, enjoying intimacy that brought joy and fulfillment.


What is your idea of intimacy? Men tend to think of sex as physical and “intimacy” as a euphemism for the sexual act. Women, on the other hand, tend to relate “intimacy” to an emotional connection, knowing and being known deeply by another. Both expressions have a measure of overlap, yet their differences need to be understood. Both men and women refer to a connection, but a different mode of connection.


From the very beginning, intimacy was intended to be the basis for a vibrant, satisfying and fulfilled marriage. How is it that some couples struggle with this fundamental issue of intimacy in their marriage?


As Christian couples, we should recognize that the real enemy is the devil and his schemes, which are designed to separate us and, worse, provoke us to fight against each other. Let us be determined by His strength, to protect and bonds of peace and intimacy with each other.


Intimacy encompasses five interconnected areas.

- Spiritual.

- Emotional.

- Physical or Sexual.

- Recreational.

- Financial.


Spiritual intimacy is cultivated when couples guard their own personal intimacy with the Lord and devote regular times when they worship, pray, study the Word together. In that way, they stay connected spiritually.


Emotional intimacy is when couples spend sufficient times just communicating with each other, sharing what is upon their hearts. Their hopes, fears, aspirations, concerns, delights and even dreams. That way, the know each other’s feelings intimately.


Husband and wives both need sexual intimacy. When work and other responsibilities leave couples too busy and tired, they can easily neglect this area of intimacy. Read 1 Corinthians 7:3-5 carefully. Depriving each other of sexual intimacy exposes us to temptation.


Recreational intimacy is spending time “playing” together. Doing recreational activities together.


Financial intimacy entails learning to be open with each other regarding money matters.


Reflection:

(1) In what are/areas are you needing to improve in your intimacy? Talk about it with your spouse.

(2) What are the main obstacles and hindrances that need to be removed?


Prayer:

Dear heavenly Father, help me to take stock of my marriage intimacy seriously. May I grow in wisdom and understanding in areas that need attention and perhaps even repair.

Guide me to the healthy path. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

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