Inspiring Marriages

Join Jeff and Teresa Fields as they share six more exciting tips on nurturing intellectual intimacy in marriage. This episode delves into the often-overlooked aspect of relationship growth that involves deep conversations and shared experiences. From visiting museums and attending lectures to playing intellectual games and having big question conversations, they explore practical ways to enhance your connection. They emphasize the importance of supporting each other's intellectual pursuits and even cooking new recipes together as a means of fostering intimacy. Get ready to be inspired and discover how to deepen your bond while having fun along the way!

Delve into the enriching world of intellectual intimacy as Jeff and Teresa Fields share their insights and experiences on nurturing deep connections in marriage. Drawing on their 32 years of marriage, they discuss the often-overlooked aspect of intellectual intimacy and its vital role in building a robust, fulfilling relationship. The episode presents six additional tips to help couples enhance this intimate connection, emphasizing the importance of shared learning experiences. From visiting museums and attending lectures to engaging in meaningful conversations about life's big questions, the Fields illustrate how these activities can spark deeper understanding and appreciation for one another. They also share personal anecdotes, including their own experiences with cooking new recipes together, which not only nourishes their bodies but also strengthens their bond. This engaging dialogue encourages listeners to reflect on their own relationships and consider how they can cultivate a richer intellectual partnership with their spouses, ultimately leading to a more vibrant and connected marriage.

Takeaways:

• Intellectual intimacy involves deep conversations and shared ideas that strengthen your marriage.
• Engaging in activities like visiting museums can help couples grow together intellectually.
• Supporting each other's intellectual pursuits fosters a sense of shared purpose in marriage.
• Cooking new recipes together blends creativity and intellect, enhancing your bond as a couple.
• Having regular big question conversations allows couples to explore profound topics and beliefs.
• Playing intellectual games together can deepen your connection while providing fun and laughter.

Links referenced in this episode:

• inspiringmarriages.net

Cultivating intellectual intimacy is crucial for nurturing a deep and lasting connection in marriage. Jeff and Teresa Fields share six practical tips that couples can use to enhance their intellectual bond, from reading and discussing books together to attending workshops and sharing interesting articles. They emphasize the importance of engaging in meaningful conversations that stimulate both minds, allowing couples to explore new ideas and perspectives. By actively working on this aspect of their relationship, partners can foster mutual respect and understanding, ultimately strengthening their emotional and spiritual connection. Join Jeff and Teresa as they guide you through these insightful strategies to make your marriage thrive.

Cultivating intellectual intimacy is essential for couples seeking a deeper connection and understanding in their marriage. In this episode, Jeff and Teresa Fields delve into six practical tips designed to nurture this vital aspect of relationships. They emphasize the importance of engaging in thoughtful conversations, sharing insights from books, articles, and documentaries, and learning together through workshops or classes. The couple shares personal anecdotes and relatable experiences, illustrating how these activities can transform a marriage into a vibrant partnership where both individuals grow intellectually and emotionally. By discussing their day from an intellectual perspective, couples can foster empathy and understanding, crucial elements in any successful relationship. Jeff and Teresa also highlight the significance of shared hobbies, encouraging couples to explore new interests together, ultimately strengthening their bond. This episode serves as a reminder that keeping the intellectual spark alive is just as important as emotional and physical intimacy in a thriving marriage.

Takeaways:

• Nurturing intellectual intimacy involves engaging in meaningful conversations that foster mutual respect and understanding.
• Reading and discussing books together can deepen your connection and spark insightful conversations.
• Attending workshops or classes as a couple helps to grow your bond and learn together.
• Sharing interesting articles encourages curiosity and stimulates discussions about various intriguing topics.
• Starting a shared hobby creates opportunities for growth, learning, and deeper emotional connections together.
• Watching documentaries and discussing their content can expand your horizons and strengthen your spiritual bond.

Links referenced in this episode:

• inspiringmarriages.net

Intellectual intimacy in marriage is often the unspoken romance that can elevate a relationship to new heights. This episode dives into why nurturing this unique connection is essential for deepening emotional bonds and enhancing communication between spouses. Jeff and Teresa explore how sharing thoughts, dreams, and ideas can create pathways for understanding and respect, fostering an environment where both partners can thrive. They discuss the five compelling reasons why intellectual intimacy matters, including its ability to promote personal growth and keep the relationship dynamic and engaging. Tune in for insightful tips on building this vital aspect of intimacy and learn how it can transform your marriage into a richer, more fulfilling partnership.

The concept of intellectual intimacy, often overshadowed by emotional and physical aspects of relationships, takes center stage in this enlightening episode. Jeff and Teresa Fields delve into what they call 'the unspoken romance' of marriage, emphasizing how sharing ideas and engaging in thoughtful discussions can profoundly impact a couple's connection. They argue that intellectual intimacy is essential for creating a bond that goes beyond mere attraction; it's about forming a deeper understanding of one another, cultivating respect, and fostering personal and shared growth within the marriage. The Fields illustrate this by describing how intellectual exchanges can lead to richer emotional connections, where vulnerability and insight bring partners closer together.

Throughout the discussion, the Fields outline five key reasons why intellectual intimacy is crucial for any marriage. They emphasize that it enhances emotional connection by allowing partners to explore each other's inner worlds, thereby deepening their sense of security and love. Furthermore, they highlight the role of intellectual intimacy in improving communication—creating a safe space where misunderstandings are less likely to occur. This improvement in dialogue not only strengthens the relationship but also encourages personal growth, as each partner learns to appreciate the other's unique gifts and perspectives. The episode is rich with insights and practical advice, making it relatable for couples at any stage of their relationship.

Listeners are invited to reflect on their own experiences and consider ways to prioritize intellectual intimacy in their daily lives. From engaging in shared reading to meaningful debates about current events, the Fields provide actionable tips to help couples keep their relationship dynamic and interesting. This episode serves not only as a guide but also as a reminder that intellectual intimacy is a vital ingredient in the recipe for a loving, vibrant, and lasting marriage.

Takeaways:

• Intellectual intimacy enhances emotional connection, creating deeper understanding and trust between spouses.
• Engaging in thoughtful conversations fosters mutual respect and personal growth within the relationship.
• Sharing intellectual passions leads to stronger bonds, enriching both emotional and physical connections.
• Regular intellectual engagement keeps the marriage dynamic, preventing monotony in long-term relationships.
• Intellectual intimacy encourages couples to explore new ideas, strengthening their connection over time.
• Creating a safe space for open dialogue allows for vulnerability and strengthens the romantic bond.

Links referenced in this episode:

• inspiringmarriages.net
• stevemaraboli.com

Bible reading is an essential part of building spiritual intimacy, and today’s discussion emphasizes the transformative power of immersing ourselves in God's Word. Jeff and Teresa Fields share their insights on how consistent engagement with scripture can lead to deeper marital connections and personal growth. They explore the significance of not just reading the Bible, but truly applying its teachings to our lives, likening it to looking in a spiritual mirror that reflects our inner selves. The episode encourages listeners to choose translations they understand, meditate on scripture, and keep a record of insights to foster spiritual growth. Join them as they inspire couples to ignite a spark in their relationships through the life-changing wisdom found in the Bible.

The Fields couple articulates the transformative potential of daily Bible reading as a means to cultivate spiritual intimacy within marriage. They argue that spiritual intimacy is essential for a thriving marriage, serving as a foundation for emotional, romantic, and physical connection. By emphasizing the importance of scripture, they illustrate how God's Word acts as a mirror reflecting our inner lives and guiding us toward personal growth. The couple highlights practical steps couples can take to incorporate Bible reading into their daily routine, such as choosing an accessible translation and dedicating a specific time for quiet reflection.

Throughout the episode, Jeff and Teresa engage in a rich dialogue about the necessity of being 'doers of the Word,' referencing James 1:23-25 to underscore the difference between merely reading scripture and actively applying its teachings. They share anecdotes from their own lives, demonstrating how spiritual practices have positively impacted their relationship and strengthened their bond. The couple encourages listeners to create an environment conducive to spiritual growth, suggesting tools like journals for recording insights, thoughts, and prayers that arise during Bible study.

The episode resonates with couples seeking deeper connection and understanding of God’s purpose for their marriages. By sharing their experiences and insights, the Fields illuminate the transformative power of scripture, advocating for a lifestyle that prioritizes spiritual engagement as a means to build not only individual faith but also a robust partnership grounded in love and mutual respect. Their encouragement to meditate on and internalize biblical teachings provides a compelling call to action for couples aiming to enrich their relationship through spiritual intimacy.

Takeaways:

• Daily Bible reading cultivates spiritual intimacy, transforming our hearts and minds for deeper connections.
• Choosing a translation of the Bible that resonates with you is crucial for understanding.
• Meditation on scripture allows us to apply God's Word, thereby influencing our daily lives.
• Writing down insights from your quiet time helps reinforce what God is revealing to you.
• Being a doer of the Word is more important than merely reading it superficially.
• Engaging in consistent Bible study can guide us through life's challenges with peace and purpose.

Links referenced in this episode:

• inspiringmarriages.net

This episode of the Inspiring Marriages Podcast focuses on the importance of spiritual intimacy in marriage and offers insights on preventing spiritual atrophy through consistent prayer. Jeff and Teresa Fields emphasize that just as physical muscles can weaken without use, so can our spiritual lives. They discuss how deep, open communication and vulnerability between partners can enhance their emotional and spiritual connection. The episode highlights practical steps couples can take to build their prayer life together, fostering a deeper relationship with each other and with God. Listeners are encouraged to increase their prayer time, establishing a routine that promotes growth and intimacy in their marriage.

In a world where the hustle and bustle of daily life can easily overshadow meaningful connections, Jeff and Teresa Fields shine a light on the transformative power of spiritual intimacy in their latest episode of the Inspiring Marriages Podcast. With over 33 years of marriage under their belts, the Fields offer profound insights into how spiritual practices can significantly enhance the depth of marital relationships. They draw a striking analogy between physical fitness and spiritual health, explaining that just like muscles require regular exercise to thrive, so does a couple's spiritual life need consistent attention to prevent atrophy. The discussion is both relatable and enlightening, emphasizing that neglecting spiritual intimacy can lead to weakened connections and emotional distance.

The hosts explore four key areas of intimacy—spiritual, intellectual, emotional, and physical—articulating how these facets interweave to create a robust marital bond. They provide actionable advice on how couples can increase their prayer time together, reinforcing the idea that inviting God into their relationship cultivates a safe environment for vulnerability and shared growth. This episode is not just a theoretical discussion; it is filled with practical tips and real-life examples that encourage couples to prioritize their spiritual journey together. By fostering consistent prayer and open communication, the Fields illustrate how couples can alleviate stress and enhance their marital satisfaction, ultimately leading to a deeper, more fulfilling partnership. The episode wraps up with a call to action, inviting listeners to embrace the life-changing power of prayer and to become intentional about nurturing their spiritual and marital intimacy.

Takeaways:

• Spiritual intimacy is essential for a thriving marriage, reflecting the relationship of Christ and the church.
• Building trust and respect takes time, but it is crucial for deep marital intimacy.
• Prayer is a powerful tool to strengthen our connection with God and each other.
• Consistent prayer helps prevent spiritual atrophy and builds our spiritual muscles together.
• Intimacy involves sharing thoughts and emotions openly without fear of judgment or shame.
• Creating a routine for prayer can help deepen your spiritual connection as a couple.

web: www.inspiringmarriages.net

email: [email protected]

music: @joseph_fields_texas

“The marriage relationship is doubtless a great mystery, but I am speaking of something deeper still—the marriage of Christ and his Church” Ephesians 5:32 Phillips

Intimacy: "Into me, see." A profound connection built on trust and mutual respect, where the deepest thoughts and emotions are shared openly, without hesitation or fear of judgment. It is a space where vulnerability is met with understanding, and true closeness flourishes spiritually, intellectually, emotionally and physically.

“And the man and his wife were both naked and were not embarrassed or ashamed in each other’s presence.” Genesis 2:25 AMPC

“And this is eternal life: [it means] to know (to perceive, recognize, become acquainted with, and understand) You, the only true and real God, and [likewise] to know Him, Jesus [as the] Christ (the Anointed One, the Messiah), Whom You have sent.” John 17:3 AMPC

“Eternal life means to know and experience you as the only true God, and to know and experience Jesus Christ, as the Son whom you have sent.” John 17:3 TPT

“And in the morning, long before daylight, He got up and went out to a deserted place, and there He prayed.” Mark 1:25 AMPC

“'For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,' says the Lord. 'For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways, And My thoughts than your thoughts'." Isaiah 55:8-9 NKJV

“pray without ceasing;” 1 Thessalonians 5:17 NASB1995

“I don’t often spend more than half an hour in prayer at one time, but I never go more than half an hour without praying.” – Smith Wigglesworth

“Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.” Ephesians 6:18 NLT

During your daily quiet time, increase the time of prayer

Links referenced in this episode:

• inspiringmarriages.net

web: www.inspiringmarriages.net

email: [email protected]

music: @joseph_fields_texas

“The marriage relationship is doubtless a great mystery, but I am speaking of something deeper still—the marriage of Christ and his Church”  Ephesians 5:32 Phillips

Marriage:  

• A man and a woman
• Spiritually, Emotionally, Intellectually and Physically intimate
• Working together in a shared life to help each other realize their visions and dreams
• Walking with God to fulfill their callings and goals

“And the man and his wife were both naked and were not ashamed. “ Genesis 2:25 NASB1995

“And the man and his wife were both naked and were not embarrassed or ashamed in each other’s presence.”  Genesis 2:25 AMPC

Webster 1828:

1. INTIMATE,adjective Inmost; inward; internal; near close
2. INTIMATE, noun A familiar friend or associate; one to whom the thoughts of another are entrusted without reserve.
3. INTIMATE, verb  To share together.

1. Spiritual Intimacy: Connects on a deeper spiritual level
2. Physical Intimacy: Includes physical contact and affection – the most exclusive part of your marital relationship
3. Emotional Intimacy: Based on trust and respect.
4. Intellectual Intimacy: Involves deep conversations and shared ideas.

Intimacy: “Into me see”.  A relationship based on trust and respect where the most innermost thoughts and feelings are freely shared without reserve.

“And this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent.”   John 17:3 ESV

“And this is eternal life: [it means] to know (to perceive, recognize, become acquainted with, and understand) You, the only true and real God, and [likewise] to know Him, Jesus [as the] Christ (the Anointed One, the Messiah), Whom You have sent.”  John 17:3 AMPC

Quiet time is an essential practice in a Christian's spiritual journey. It offers an opportunity to deepen our relationship with God, learn from His Word, and grow more like Christ in our thoughts, actions, and character. Through quiet time, we engage in focused prayer, Bible study, and reflection, allowing space for God's presence to shape us.

God created us with a deep, intrinsic need for connection with Him. Just as any relationship thrives with time and attention, so does our relationship with God. Quiet time is the way we nurture that connection, allowing ourselves to listen to His voice, seek His guidance, and understand His will for our lives.

 “If we knew how much God loved us and was for us, we’d talk to Him all day long” -- Donald Miller

As we engage in this practice consistently, our desire for it increases. Just as we long for fellowship with close friends or family, we will hunger for time with the Lord each day. This spiritual discipline helps us grow in Christlikeness, transforming our hearts and minds, aligning us more with His character, and empowering us to live out His will in the world around us. The more we seek Him, the more we grow, and the more we long for the intimacy of our time alone with Him.

"To fall in love with God is the greatest romance; to seek him the greatest adventure; to find him, the greatest human achievement." ~ Saint Augustine

If you have time to scroll and swipe, you have time for quiet time.

“You will seek me and find me” Jeremiah 29:13 NIV

 “I will meditate on Your precepts,  And contemplate Your ways.”  Psalms 119:15 NKJV

Practical Steps:

1. Pick a consistent time each day
2. Pick a place where you can stay focused
3. Put on some worship music in the background
4. 5 to 10 minutes of talking to your loving Father
5. Read a Bible chapter or passage
6. Write down what stood out in your reading or what the Holy Spirit revealed to you.
7. Meditate (chew) of what you read and heard
8. Share with your spouse something that you wrote down.

·      Have a 10-minute quiet time session each day

#MarriageMatters #CoupleGoals #MarriageTips #LoveAndMarriage #HappyMarriage #MarriagePodcast #MarriageHelp #StrongerTogether #LoveAndRespect #HealthyMarriage #MarriageJourney #RelationshipGrowth #CouplesCommunication #marriage101 #honor #respect #domesticsupport #inspiringmarriages #sex #healthysex #committment #exclusivity #faithandlove #couplespodcast #intimacy 

Spiritual intimacy is the pathway to marital intimacy.

web: www.inspiringmarriages.net

email: [email protected]

music: @joseph_fields_texas

“The marriage relationship is doubtless a great mystery, but I am speaking of something deeper still—the marriage of Christ and his Church”  Ephesians 5:32 Phillips

Marriage:  

• A man and a woman
• Spiritually, Emotionally, Intellectually and Physically intimate
• Working together in a shared life to help each other realize their visions and dreams
• Walking with God to fulfill their callings and goals

“And the man and his wife were both naked and were not ashamed. “ Genesis 2:25 NASB1995

“And the man and his wife were both naked and were not embarrassed or ashamed in each other’s presence.”  Genesis 2:25 AMPC

Webster 1828:

1. INTIMATE,adjective Inmost; inward; internal; near close
2. INTIMATE, noun A familiar friend or associate; one to whom the thoughts of another are entrusted without reserve.
3. INTIMATE, verb  To share together.

1. Spiritual Intimacy: Connects on a deeper spiritual level
2. Physical intimacy: Includes physical contact and affection – the most exclusive part of your marital relationship
3. Emotional intimacy: Based on trust and respect.
4. Intellectual intimacy: Involves deep conversations and shared ideas.

Intimacy: “Into me see”.  A relationship based on trust and respect where the most innermost thoughts and feelings are freely shared without reserve.

Becoming intimate with God can indeed lead to a deeper understanding and experience of His abundance in your life. When you nurture a close relationship with God, it often opens the door to spiritual, emotional, and even material blessings. This intimacy allows you to align with His will, which can bring peace, joy, and fulfillment that surpasses worldly measures. God's abundance is not just about material wealth, but about experiencing His love, grace, and provision in all areas of life.

“Royality is my identity. Servanthood is my assignment. Intimacy with God is my life source.”  -- Pastor Bill Johnson

Glorifying God and developing a close relationship with Him are indeed central to His ultimate purpose for your life. The Bible emphasizes that God's desire is for His people to know Him intimately and live in communion with Him. This intimacy becomes the foundation for experiencing God's presence and power in every aspect of life.

"The Spirit of God is jealous over us; He doesn't want superficial fellowship, but genuine intimacy." ~ John Bevere

“And this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent.”   John 17:3 ESV

“And this is eternal life: [it means] to know (to perceive, recognize, become acquainted with, and understand) You, the only true and real God, and[likewise] to know Him, Jesus [as the] Christ (the Anointed One, the Messiah), Whom You have sent.”  John 17:3 AMPC

As you grow closer to God, you begin to reflect His love, character, and purpose more fully. This relationship is not just about receiving blessings, but also about allowing God's life to flow through you, transforming your heart and actions. Through this intimacy, you gain the strength, wisdom, and guidance needed to navigate life's challenges. By walking with Christ and aligning your life with His will, you can fulfill the unique purpose God has designed for you.

When we are aligned with God, each spouse can minister the love of God to each other.

“..  If you have seen me, you have seen the Father. …” John 14:9 CEV

 “Jesus said to her, “Do not cling to Me, for I have not yet ascended to My Father; but go to My brethren and say to them, ‘I am ascending to My Father and your Father, and to My God and your God.’ ” John 20:17 NKJV

“How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.”  Acts 10:38 KJV

Ultimately, your relationship with God shapes your journey, enabling you to glorify Him through your life, face struggles with faith, and experience the fullness of His plan for you. This intimacy leads to a life marked by peace, joy, and fulfillment, as you see His purpose unfold in your daily walk with Him.

Developing Intimacy Friendship Builder

 #MarriageMatters #CoupleGoals #MarriageTips #LoveAndMarriage #HappyMarriage #MarriagePodcast #MarriageHelp #StrongerTogether #LoveAndRespect #HealthyMarriage #MarriageJourney #RelationshipGrowth #CouplesCommunication #marriage101 #honor #respect #domesticsupport #inspiringmarriages #sex #healthysex #committment #exclusivity #faithandlove #couplespodcast #intimacy

web: www.inspiringmarriages.net

email: [email protected]

music: @joseph_fields_texas

Marriage:

1. • A man and a woman
2. • Physically and emotionally intimate
3. • Working together in a shared life to help each other realize their visions and dreams
4. • Walking with God to fulfill their callings and goals

“Jesus answered, `Have you not read this? From the time God first made people, he made them a man and a woman.” Matthew 19:4 Worldwide English (WE)

1. Marriage is exclusive between 1 male and 1 female

2. Your marriage must be free from outside influences

3. Your marriage comes first before your family or your kids

The idea that “your marriage comes first before your family or your kids” is a principal couples follow to ensure a strong and resilient marriage.

·

Prioritizing the Relationship: Making your marriage a priority means investing time, energy, and affection into your relationship. This doesn’t mean neglecting other relationships, but rather ensuring that your partnership remains strong and supportive.

“For this reason, a man must leave his father and mother when he gets married and be joined to his wife. The two become one.” Ephesians 5:31 NLT

The word is prioritizing – not monopolizing.

·

Role Modeling: A healthy, loving relationship between spouses sets a positive example for children and extended family. Kids benefit from seeing their parents prioritize each other and work together as a team.

“Being a role model is the most powerful form of educating” – John Wooden

Your children should see:

1. Gentle non-sexual affections
2. Both parents working together
3. Sharing chores
4. Being affectionate

·

Shared Decisions: Working together on decisions and maintaining a united front can strengthen the marriage and provide stability for the entire family.

“Can two walk together, except they be agreed?” Amos 3:3

“and be subject to one another in the fear of Christ.” Ephesians 5:21 NASB1995

·

Quality Time: Allocating regular time for each other, even in the midst of family and parenting responsibilities, helps maintain a strong connection and prevents the relationship from becoming routine or neglected.

30 minutes of conversation every day.

·

Balanced Attention: While the marriage is a priority, it’s essential to also attend to the needs of children and other family members. The goal is to find a balance where the marriage remains a central focus, but family needs are still met with love and care.

“A marriage cannot thrive on leftover attention. It has to get your best effort” – Ngina Otiende

Ecclesiastes 4:9-11 ESV

Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up! Again, if two lie together, they keep warm, but how can one keep warm alone?

·

Preventing Resentment: By maintaining a strong marital relationship, spouses are less likely to feel resentment or burnout from family responsibilities, which can contribute to a healthier family dynamic overall.

“Resentment develops when you repeatedly feel unheard, dismissed or feel that a spouse puts other interests ahead of you and the marriage.” -- Dr. Anne Brennan Malec

Isaiah 40:31 KJV

"But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint"

Matthew 11:28-30 KJV

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls".

Watch a romantic holiday movie together

web: www.inspiringmarriages.net

email: [email protected]

music @Joseph_fields_texas

"God blessed them; and God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth, and subdue it; and rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the sky and over every living thing that moves on the earth.” Genesis 1:28 NASB1995

"He who finds a wife finds a good thing

And obtains favor from the Lord." Proverbs 18:22 NASB1995

Friendship Builder:

Look at your wedding pics/videos and reminisce

Web: www.inspiringmarriages.net

Email: [email protected]

Music: @joseph_fields_texas

Marriage:

• A man and a woman

• Physically and emotionally intimate

• Working together in a shared life to help each other realize their visions and dreams

• Walking with God to fulfill their callings and goals

“And He answered and said, “Have you not read that He who created them from the beginning made them male and female, and said, ‘For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh’? So they are no longer two, but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let no man separate.” Matthew 19:4-6 NASB1995

“Haven’t you read the Scriptures about creation?” Jesus replied. “The Creator made us male and female from the very beginning.” Matthew 19:4 TPT

“Jesus answered, `Have you not read this? From the time God first made people, he made them a man and a woman.” Matthew 19:4 Worldwide English (WE)

• Commitment:

• Intimacy:

• Trust and Loyalty:

• Focus on the Relationship:

• Shared Goals:

The idea of a marriage being free from outside influences suggests creating a strong, resilient bond between spouses that isn't swayed by external pressures or opinions. Here’s how you might interpret and apply this principle:

• Healthy Boundaries:

• Open Communication:

• Mutual Respect:

• Shared Values: Focusing on shared values and goals within the marriage, rather than being influenced by societal expectations or external judgments.

“Courage is the only virtue you can’t fake.” – Nassim Taleb

Understand your values: Consider what's important to you and how you can live your values. Do you and your spouse understand your values? Do your children?

“But Peter and the apostles replied, “We must obey God rather than any human authority.” Acts 5:29 NLT

1. Views on marriage: holy matrimony is between a man and a woman

2. Sunday Observance: Worship together as a family.

a. Pastors from Nigeria – Thought everything would be closed on Sunday

3. Concept of forgiveness vs cancel culture

4. Attitude on material wealth: we are givers

5. Stewardship of the earth

6. Sanctity of life

“Courage is what it takes to stand up and speak; courage is also what it takes to sit down and listen.” – T.S. Eliot

Daniel 3 Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego

Standing up for values may cost you here on earth:

1. Friendships

2. Family relationships

3. Material things

4. Promotions

“Sound values raise tough choices.” - Rushworth M. Kidder

Avoid:

1. Isolation

2. Indoctrination

3. Assimilation

4. Confusion