Intimacy

     With all the controversy over same sex marriage, now we have some people coming out and saying they do not even believe there should be an institution of marriage at all.  Our world is gradually deteriorating, and the blame is being placed on the breakup of the marriage and the lack of a missing parent in the home. 

     Just why are marriages failing?  Could it be a lack of intimacy?  When I say intimacy, I am not talking about a familiar sexual act but, rather, a close, warm familiar personal relationship; something that runs deep within.  There can be no deeper intimate relationship among a husband and a wife than to just be able to pick up the spouse’s hand at any given moment in time and pray together.  I remember the first time I shared a burden with my husband.  He instantly reached for my hand, and we stood right there and prayed.  I was overwhelmed. 
     Just a simple action places a spiritual friend deep within your soul, and this special, oh so special friend becomes the intermediary, not only between you and God, but also between disagreements that occur in marriages, as well.
     Prayer in family relationships, as well as the personal life, results in many blessings.  Yet, we often forget that God seeks a friendship with us and not just as a giver.  Most of us, including me, see Him as a giver because that is what He does.  He wants to bless us; He wants to give to us.  Maybe that is why so many of our prayers are rendered as “give me” prayers.  We know He loves us, and we want to claim His promises.  However, before we seek Him to fulfill our desires and wishes, we are first and always supposed to praise Him in name.  We need an intimate relationship with God.  The example given in Matthew says, “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.” 
     There is no greater intimacy in marriage than for a spouse to simple pick up the other one’s hand and pray, “Thank you God for being the Master of our home. Thank you God for the many blessings you bestow.  We love you Lord for all you do,” and then seek Him with your current needs and concerns. 
     It is so easy to pray for someone, but how easy is it to pray with someone?  It will change your relationship.  Intimacy - such a simple act but it makes so much difference!