God and Sex

This past week I was leading a women’s group that practices a strong integration of psychology and Christianity. We were discussing how being created female, in God’s image, is expressed in our sexuality – the longing for relationship. The deepest human expression of intimacy in marriage is through our sexuality; two people becoming one is meant to represent an intimate relationship with God. Our discussion covered biological considerations such as celibacy in a promiscuous culture, what it looks like when you lose your libido with aging, and where divine grace fits in. Things are different in a mature human relationship, just as they are in any long term relationship with God. Sometimes we hit a wall and act out of duty, despite our feelings, and then pray through it. We invite God into our lives on all levels. This is true with celibacy as well.

Intimacy has social, spiritual and emotional components. Ultimately my fear is that I will never have a fulfilling level of emotional intimacy with a man in my life. On the other hand, as a single woman I can experience God’s presence and acceptance in a way that a man is not capable of, even the most devoted spouse. God’s level of commitment, His faithfulness to me, and His assurance that nothing will ever separate me from His love (Rom. 8) meets that need through the work of the Holy Spirit. I need to be open to communicating, receiving and responding to his words in my life, whether through Scripture, prayer, a conversation with friends or a walk in the beauty of cultivated or wild creation.

Intimacy with God can be sensed through beauty, whether through hearing, sight, taste, touch, or delightful scents. This past week I have turned to praying in Russian, an emotional language full of affectionate diminutives, with chik or chka endings. It helps me experience God in a warmer way, as I did in my childhood. He sparkles and fills up the room with a sense of life, safety and love. And yes, your imagination is a venue for the Holy Spirit. It is a valid way to know God: for example people in Scripture are given dreams and visions, and they take hold of God’s promises (things they have not seen just yet).

Think about where and when you have experienced God. What do you do – journal, hear or read that brings you closer to Him? Talking to other Christians or reading about their experiences of God is a marvelous way to step into a deeper and healthier intimacy with Him. Walking on that sacred ground intentionally today is the beginning to building your trust and love for Him.

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The source of objective shame.

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Childhood Sexual Abuse