Spiritual Intimacy

In today's society where the divorce rate is so high, we must always be on the lookout for ways that will help us make our marriages stronger. One of the ways I think that is essential for the health of a marriage is that of spiritual intimacy. There are many ways couples can work to build spiritual intimacy. The following action steps give several of these ways.

Talk, Listen, and Share
Spiritual intimacy cannot occur in a relationship unless there is meaningful communication about spiritual matters. Set aside some time each week even if it is just fifteen minutes to talk about spiritual growth and the things of God.
Spouses need to be able to talk about:
What God is doing and not doing in their lives.
What they have learned about God recently.
Ways that God is speaking to or leading them.
Their doubts or faith problems, including any sense of disconnection with God.
Spiritual areas in which they need improvement.

Keys for listening include:
Be attentive to what your spouse is saying.
Do not condemn or judge your spouse’s struggles or mistakes.
Be supportive and reassuring, emphasizing God’s mercy and grace.
If you feel compelled to share a contrasting point of view, share it as your interpretation, not God’s. And don’t make it seem that your spouse has a warped understanding.

Preaching at your spouse, including pointing out his or her sins or beliefs that seem wrong to you, is not a good way to build spiritual intimacy.

So talking, listening, and sharing is a good place to start. More action steps to come.

Source: AACC