And here we are, at the center of intimacy issues: sex. Physical intimacy is more important to a man than almost anything else (aside from being respected). For most women, however, sex is a response to emotional intimacy. If a woman isn’t getting her emotional needs met, she may (purposely or unintentionally) avoid sex with her husband. This is the struggle in most marriages. If both partners give to the other, then the marriage has what it needs to survive. But if one partner neglects the other’s intimacy needs, then the relationship will suffer—and the needs often will be met elsewhere. Today’s post talks specifically about how a wife can meet the needs of her husband, but the message applies to all men—by helping them understand what women really want.
"Physical Intimacy" by Nancy Leigh DeMoss
Pray
Lord, You created sex as a beautiful expression of love between a husband and a wife. Help us to have the kind of relationship in which sex is a mutual expression of love, not a manipulative tool. Help us each to give the other exactly what he or she needs.
Reflect
Are we giving each other what we need in order to have a healthy and intimate sex life?
Respond
Talk about sex! Talk about what you need, why you like it, or why you don’t. Be open and understanding, and come to a place where you can celebrate this wonderful gift God has given you.
In addition to knowing your spouse’s specific intimacy needs, fully understanding your him or her also includes communication. You need to know how to talk with your mate in a way he or she will understand. You will also need to know why your mate reacts to you the way he or she does during conversations, discussions, or arguments. For the next two posts, you will look at five tips to help you communicate with your spouse. Use these tips as conversation starters as you seek to understand each other better.
Physical Intimacy