Romantic relationships require intimacy – and it comes in all forms. There are eight days to go until Valentine’s Day, but true intimacy is an ongoing, daily part of your relationship. This post is part of our Top Ten Ways to Celebrate Valentine’s Day (Every Day) blog series.

#8: Be intimate.

Your mind probably runs to one specific place when you think about intimacy in your relationship – physical intimacy. Yes, it is important. But it is only healthy intimacy when we recognize and live into the clear boundaries God has given us around physical intimacy, both within and outside of marriage.

Part of physical intimacy is quality time. Spend time physically together – it is much different than text messaging or being a part of a large social gathering together.

But don’t stop there.

• Pursue emotional intimacy – share how you are feeling each day. What made you happy? What frustrated you? What things make you angry, scared, or sad?
• Enjoy mental intimacy – share what you are learning and thinking together. You may love to watch the news, listen to podcasts, read books, or talk to people, but share these new ideas with your spouse.
• Don’t forget spiritual intimacy – married couples are one flesh before God. Pray together. Read Scripture together. Live out God’s commands for holy living – humility, kindness, honesty, respect.

Call to Action:

Identify which area of intimacy is strongest and which is weakest in your relationship. Pray about this and discuss it with your spouse. (But probably not on Valentine’s Day itself.)