“And the effect of righteousness will be peace, and the result of righteousness, quietness and trust forever. My people will abide in a peaceful habitation, in secure dwellings, and in quiet resting places.” Isaiah 32:17-18
Intimacy in a marriage is created in more ways and to greater depth than we often imagine. Spiritual intimacy between a husband and wife provides a safe covering, but also more than a covering. Coming together as a couple before God brings us to a place of access to the power and passion we need to live in this world — not just survive, but thrive.
Consider Isaiah’s words as he describes how the righteous will live: in peaceful habitation, in secure dwellings, and in quiet resting places. What a counter cultural image! Each of these is a heart posture before it becomes a reality. And when, as husband and wife, we stand together in that heart posture, God crafts this reality in our lives. It doesn’t mean there aren’t storms or struggles, but this is how we’re able to live well and carry hope in the midst of whatever life holds.
As might be expected, because of the power it can hold, spiritual intimacy is fiercely opposed. Many couples get lost in feeling uncomfortable praying aloud together, or they slip into comparing (She’s more spiritual than I am. I can’t pray as well as he can.) often giving up and yielding to what feels comfortable but results in spiritual impotence.
Corporate prayer, engaging with Scripture together, worshiping together — all are primary resources for building spiritual foundations as a couple. It’s not about finding a formula, but being willing to answer the call to enter in and remain intentional in the building of our spiritual life together.
Father, Jesus tells us in John 10:10 that “the thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy,” but that You have come that we may have life and have it to the full. Please don’t let our pride or insecurities stop us from coming together before You with worshipful and attentive hearts. We want Your life, in fullness not in fractions.
For devotions to help make your faith — and your marriage — stronger each week of the year, see Jim and Jean Daly’s book The Best Year of Your Marriage: 52 devotions to bring you closer.
