“That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh.”Genesis 2:24(NIV)
Think about the connection between the head and the neck—when the neck is in pain, the head can’t function properly. In the same way, your marriage is a union where you and your spouse are intricately connected. If one of you struggles, the other is affected. This oneness doesn’t happen automatically; it requires both of you to be intentional about nurturing your bond.
Being one with your spouse means aligning in words, thoughts, and actions. The Bible asks, “Can two walk together unless they agree?” (Amos 3:3). This unity in marriage is built on three essential pillars: communication, sacrifice, and intentionality. The design of marriage mirrors the relationship between Christ and the church (Ephesians 5:32), and Christ being our perfect example, in building His relationship with the church displayed these strong pillars. Let us examine these pillars and how they affect intimacy in marriage.
Just as God communicated His plans, first through prophecy and later through His Son (Hebrews 1:1, Ephesians 3:2-4), you must communicate openly with your spouse. God did not leave his plans and purposes for the body in darkness. By numerous prophecies, He made His plans known and now as a believer in the finished work of Christ, He speaks to us by His spirit and by this our relationship with Him is sustained. Similarly, in marriage communication is important and should be met with vulnerability, empathy and a non-judgmental atmosphere.
Loving your spouse also requires sacrifice. Just as Christ gave Himself for the Church (Ephesians 5:25), you are called to love selflessly. Sacrifice in marriage may mean giving up your comfort, time, or resources for the sake of your partner. A marriage built on sacrifice naturally reflects patience, humility, and endurance. Jesus endured the pain of the cross because He saw the greater purpose beyond it (Hebrews 12:2), in the same vein when you prioritize your spouse’s well-being over personal convenience, you create a strong, unshakable bond (Philippians 2:3-4).
Lastly, marriage requires intentionality. Intentional couples thrive in maintaining intimacy in every aspect of their marriage and this helps them grow in oneness. Make time to connect—pray together, study the Bible, take trips, or simply enjoy each other’s company without distractions.
Marriage is a beautiful gift from God designed to reflect his love and bring you joy. When you prioritize spiritual, emotional, physical, and intellectual intimacy—grounded in communication, sacrifice, and intentionality—you build a thriving, God-centered relationship.
Bible Reading Plan: Numbers 1-2; Acts 5:12-40