For a few weeks on Monday Musings, we’re looking at principles found in the 10 commandments that can be applied to guarding intimacy with our spouse. Not legalistic, binding laws, but principles that can guide us in our decisions.
“Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.”
Exodus 20:8
How can we connect if we are always in a hurry and stressed?
I know I have a hard time shutting down the “I’ve got to get it done” mode. But I believe it’s necessary if we want a healthy marriage.
Speakers use humor all the time to connect with their audience. Preachers use humor to get people to open up so they will hear the message. In the same way, humor helps us connect with our spouse and smooths the way for understanding each other.
Slowing down provides the time to really listen to each other’s hearts. Relaxing eases the stress so we don’t overreact so much when dealing with conflict.
Once again, you have to be very intentional to make this happen. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
· Worship God or do your Bible study together.
· Block out a period of time when social media is a no-no. For both of you. Then take that time and talk.
· Turn off ALL electronic toys. That means your time together can’t be watching a movie or playing a game.
· Discover something you both enjoy together. Not, “I’ll do this because you like it”, but something you BOTH really like. You may have to try something new to do this.
· Take a nap together. Yes, really. This is not a euphemism for something more active in the bedroom J
· Do something that requires physical exertion. Bike riding, hiking, taking your dog for a walk, you get the idea. Moving physically then coming to that point you sit down and look at each other and say, “that felt good.”
Be creative. Do something different. Like not doing anything at all. The point is to do something TOGETHER that relieves the stress of life.
Do you take time to relax together?
When is the last time you had a really good
belly laugh with your spouse?
Is there something you can do this week to help you both relax?
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