An Intimate Marriage <3

Intimacy.. oh to be intimate! But what is intimacy? How is it defined in a marriage?

I am going to reference Jimmy Evans post on Marriage Today (below is the link), as I share my own intimate thoughts, beliefs, struggles, opinions, & questions.

http://www.marriagetoday.org/site/News2?page=NewsArticle&id=5113&security=1&news_iv_ctrl=1061

According to Jimmy Evans:
Intimacy is defined as an inner closeness and depth of relationship; complete mutual awareness and unhindered access of interpersonal issues, information and interests.

A simple definition of intimacy is "to be close and/or deep." An intimate marriage is a relationship of emotional and spiritual closeness that goes much deeper than the average friendship or family bond. This intimacy is expressed through physical affection, sexual contact, verbal exchange, and various other ways.

Married couples are intimate with one another when their communication with each other is enhanced daily by their willingness to share not only their thoughts and opinions, but also their feelings; is sexual as well as emotional (as defined by marriage.about.com).

Evans says there are 2 deceptions of intimacy:
1. Marriage will automatically be intimate.
2. Sex produces intimacy.

*4 Goals for an Intimate Marriage:
1. Sharing an attitude of openness and surrender- an intimate life is a shared life.
2. Partnership, A relationship of mutual support and encouragement- selfishness destroys oneness & intimacy.
3. Investment, An atmosphere of regular, positivie exchange- create a bond & meet each other's needs. 4. Trust, an environment of safety and security- build trust through consistency, careful speech, kindness, & humility.

I've seen marriages fall apart by not having Christ in them. Satan wants to use the advantages of the world against us. He wants to see our marriages fail!
Pray that God will give you strength, guidance, and love in your marriage. Learn to communicate w/ your spouse! That is the key!
My husband and I are learning some of these very things in our marriage. All to benefit us in the best way!

Check out the Marriage Today site.