Sermon Notes

Aiming For The Ideal,  While Living Out The Real

In this segment of our series, we delve into the complexities of intimacy in marriage. The ideal, according to Scripture, is that God is pro-sex (Gen. 1:28), and that sex should be enjoyable (Prov. 5:18-19) and frequent (1 Cor. 7:5). However, the reality is that every married couple will struggle at times to keep intimacy a priority.

 

Drawing from the rich imagery in Song of Solomon 2:14-15, we address the "foxes" that often spoil the vineyard of marital intimacy and offer practical solutions:

  1. Physical Issues/Too Tired: Show compassion and discuss alternative ways to maintain closeness (Eph.  4:32a).

  2. Kids: Reorder your priorities—Jesus first, spouse second, kids third, and everything else fourth.

  3. Resentment/Unresolved Conflict: Opt for reconciliation over being right, letting go of bitterness and anger (Eph. 4:31-32).

  4. Lack of Communication: Focus on the timing and manner of your conversations (Eph. 4:26; Ps. 4:4).

  5. Money Worries: Manage finances with wisdom and trust in God's provision (Matt. 6:33-34).

  6. Too Busy: Commit to specific family time and adhere to it.

 

Join us as we explore how to navigate these challenges, aiming for the ideal while living out the real, to strengthen and enrich your marital relationship.