Forget Faking It
Theme of the Week: Love Out Loud
Wednesday, February 15, 2006
 1 of 1
Key Bible Verse: Tell the truth to each other (Zechariah 8:16). Bonus Reading:Psalm 85:10-12a
The young pastor had just taken his first church and seemed capable. His wife was talented and attractive. As we discussed some personal issues, he confided that he and his wife had never clasped hands and prayed together. "Would you mind telling me why not?" I asked.
Somewhat embarrassed, he said, "I've been afraid that if we prayed together, she'd know how weak I am; how I struggle with things. I feared that she wouldn't look up to me as a strong person!"
Strange, isn't it, how we think our wives will never know something that's obvious to almost everyone but ourselves? The fact is that women can accept and love men far more deeply when men are vulnerable and honest. It's all part of an intimacy with each other that goes far beyond what men usually associate with the subject. It is:
- Openness to share your heart without fearing rejection or censure.
- Accepting and embracing each other as we are, with wholehearted commitment.
- Knowing the fears and pain of another without mocking.
- Supporting the other emotionally, physically, spiritually.
- Holding someone close and whispering, "It's okay," when logic can't quell the emotions.
—Harold Sala in Connecting
My Response: I could deepen our sharing by describing how I struggle over …
Thought to Apply: True intimacy exists in marriage when each feels free to share innermost feelings with the other, knowing that sharing them won't lessen the other's commitment to love.—NANCIE CARMICHAEL (writer)
Adapted from Connecting (Christian Publications, 2002) by permission.
Copyright © 2006 by the author or Christianity Today International/Men of Integrity magazine. Click here for reprint information on Men of Integrity. 1 of 1
Lord, I want to move beyond a shallow relationship with both You and the mate You've blessed me with. Please help me in both areas.
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