ROMANCE IN CHRISTIAN MARRIAGE
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Song of Solomon 1:2
Supporting Texts: Proverbs 5:18-19, Ephesians 5:25-33, 1 Corinthians 7:3-5, Genesis 26:8, Colossians 3:14
INTRODUCTION:
Romance in marriage is a gift from God designed to strengthen the bond between a husband and wife. It is not worldly or sinful when expressed within the boundaries of marriage. Romance includes affection, emotional intimacy, loving gestures, and physical expressions of love. Many Christian couples neglect romance, seeing it as unspiritual, yet the Bible encourages married couples to enjoy and celebrate their love. This study will explore the biblical foundation of romance in Christian marriage and how to cultivate it.
1. THE IMPORTANCE OF ROMANCE IN MARRIAGE
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a) It Strengthens the Marital Bond (Colossians 3:14)
Love and romance deepen the connection between spouses, making the marriage stronger. -
b) It Prevents Emotional and Physical Distance (1 Corinthians 7:3-5)
Romance helps to maintain closeness and prevents temptation. -
c) It Enhances Joy and Satisfaction (Proverbs 5:18-19)
A romantic marriage brings happiness and fulfilment to both partners. -
d) It Reflects God’s Love for the Church (Ephesians 5:25-27)
Christ’s love for the church is passionate and sacrificial; couples should love each other the same way. -
e) Biblical Example: Isaac and Rebekah (Genesis 26:8)
Isaac expressed affection for Rebekah, showing that romance is part of a godly marriage.
2. BARRIERS TO ROMANCE IN MARRIAGE
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a) Lack of Time and Busyness (Ecclesiastes 3:1)
When couples do not prioritise each other, romance suffers. -
b) Unresolved Conflicts and Bitterness (Ephesians 4:31-32)
A heart filled with anger and unforgiveness cannot express love. -
c) Lack of Understanding of Each Other’s Love Language (1 Peter 3:7)
Every person receives love differently; understanding this strengthens romance. -
d) Cultural and Religious Misconceptions (Song of Solomon 1:2-4)
Some believe romance is unspiritual, yet the Bible celebrates it. -
e) Biblical Example: Michal and David (2 Samuel 6:16-23)
Michal despised David’s joyful expression of love, leading to emotional distance.
3. PRACTICAL WAYS TO CULTIVATE ROMANCE IN CHRISTIAN MARRIAGE
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a) Express Love Daily (Proverbs 31:28-29)
Verbal affirmations, compliments, and kind words should be part of everyday life. -
b) Spend Quality Time Together (Ecclesiastes 9:9)
Date nights, vacations, and shared activities help couples reconnect. -
c) Physical Affection and Intimacy (Song of Solomon 2:6)
Holding hands, hugging, and other gestures strengthen emotional and physical connection. -
d) Surprise and Thoughtful Gestures (James 1:17)
Small acts of kindness like gifts, notes, or special meals keep romance alive. -
e) Biblical Example: Jacob and Rachel (Genesis 29:20)
Jacob's love for Rachel was deep, and he was willing to sacrifice for her.
4. BALANCING ROMANCE WITH SPIRITUALITY
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a) Keep Christ at the Centre (Colossians 3:17)
A godly marriage thrives when love and romance are guided by faith. -
b) Pray Together and for Each Other (Matthew 18:19-20)
Spiritual intimacy enhances emotional and romantic intimacy. -
c) Avoid Worldly Corruptions (Romans 12:2)
Romance should be pure and honour God, avoiding ungodly influences. -
d) Build Emotional and Spiritual Connection (Ecclesiastes 4:12)
A strong emotional and spiritual bond results in deeper romance. -
e) Biblical Example: Boaz and Ruth (Ruth 3:10-11)
Boaz pursued Ruth with honour, balancing romance with godliness.
5. THE CONSEQUENCES OF NEGLECTING ROMANCE IN MARRIAGE
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a) Emotional and Physical Distance (1 Corinthians 7:5)
Without romance, couples may drift apart emotionally and physically. -
b) Increased Temptation (Proverbs 7:21-27)
A lack of love and affection can open the door to external temptations. -
c) Loss of Passion and Excitement (Revelation 2:4)
Just as churches can lose their first love, marriages can grow cold without romance. -
d) Weakening of the Marriage Bond (Matthew 19:6)
Romance keeps the marriage bond strong, and neglecting it can weaken the relationship. -
e) Biblical Example: Elkanah and Hannah (1 Samuel 1:8)
Elkanah’s attempt to comfort Hannah shows that emotional connection matters in marriage.
CONCLUSION:
Romance is a vital part of a Christian marriage, designed by God to bring joy, strengthen love, and reflect His relationship with the church. Couples must be intentional about keeping romance alive through love, quality time, and expressions of affection. A godly marriage is not just about duties and responsibilities but also about joy, passion, and mutual delight.
PRAYER POINTS:
- Lord, help me to express love to my spouse in ways that glorify You.
- I reject every spirit of coldness and emotional distance in my marriage.
- Father, restore passion and joy in my marriage.
- Every barrier to romance in my marriage is broken in Jesus' name.
- Lord, help me to prioritise my spouse and nurture our love daily.
- I receive wisdom to balance spirituality and romance in my marriage.
- Let the fire of love and intimacy burn continually in my home.
- I declare that my marriage will be filled with joy, love, and divine affection.
- No enemy shall destroy the romance in my marriage.
- My marriage shall be an example of godly love and romance to others.
PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
- Your marriage will be filled with love, passion, and divine romance.
- Every wall of emotional distance in your home is broken now.
- The Lord will restore lost intimacy and joy in your marriage.
- Your spouse will always find joy and fulfilment in your love.
- The fire of love in your marriage will never go out.
- You will experience deeper emotional and spiritual connection with your spouse.
- Every force fighting the joy of your marriage is destroyed.
- The romance in your home will be fresh and vibrant all your days.
- Your marriage will be a testimony of God's love and grace.
- You and your spouse will grow old together in love and unity.
Romance in marriage is a blessing from God, and when nurtured, it brings lasting joy, unity, and fulfilment. May every Christian marriage be filled with love, warmth, and divine intimacy in Jesus' name.
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