Explore every episode of the podcast Intimate Covenant Podcast
Dive into the complete episode list for Intimate Covenant Podcast. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.
Rows per page:
50
1–50 of 183
Title
Pub. Date
Duration
Marriage Retreat Live Q&A - keeping secrets; defining virginity; aging; and more... [180]
What happens when a room full of couples asks the questions most people are afraid to say out loud? We lean into the hard stuff: purity culture hangovers, what “counts” as sex, how to tell the truth without breaking trust, and how aging bodies can still enjoy rich, connected intimacy. Recorded live at our Intimate Covenant Marriage Retreat, this candid Q&A blends biblical wisdom, practical tools, and warm honesty to help you move from silence and shame to clarity and closeness.
Ready to invest in your marriage? Subscribe, share this episode with your spouse, and register for our September retreat when doors open on February 14th.
Warning: We cover necessary and important topics about the marriage relationship and sex. We use frank language without being crude or crass. Our approach is biblical and wholesome, but not intended for singles — especially not for children.
Please support these companies that support Intimate Covenant:
Married Dance — https://marrieddance.com/?aff=29 We’re a Christian-friendly, marriage-centered sex toy and marital aid store for couples that’s nudity-free. Shop from this link for special savings and part of your purchase will support Intimate Covenant.
Coconu — http://www.coconu.com Coconu is committed to helping people lead healthier, happier lives by offering 100% safe and organic personal care products. Your purchase helps support Intimate Covenant AND you get 15% OFF. Coupon Code: intimateconvenant
Date Your Spouse — https://shop.dateyourspouse.com/?sca_ref=6278443.H6eWDeXGfx Strengthening marriages one date at a time. Shop from this link and your part of your purchase will help support Intimate Covenant. Check out their Sexy Subscription Boxes!
Ginger & Peach — https://www.gingerandpeachlingerie.com/ Ginger & Peach lingerie is a Christian husband and wife owned brand bringing classy, model-free lingerie to the market. Get 10% off your order and support Intimate Covenant with code: “INTIMATECOVENANT"
Thanks for sharing, rating, reviewing and subscribing!
Cherishing, Matt & Jenn
PS — If you have been blessed by the message of this podcast, we would deeply appreciate your support by donating to our mission of spreading God’s plan for intimate marriage and holy sexuality.
Today we’re sharing some excerpts from our live Q&A session during a recent Marriage Day in Illinois. Listen to our responses to questions about:
How to find unity of spiritual purpose when we have different passions?
As a wife, how do I avoid nagging in my role to be a helpmeet?
How can we create a community for porn recovery and support for betrayed spouses?
Practically speaking, how do we pray together as a couple?
How do I deal with with sexual dysfunction?
Warning: This podcast covers necessary and important topics about the marriage relationship and sex. We use frank language without being crude or crass. Our approach is biblical and wholesome, but not intended for singles — especially not for children.
Bring Intimate Covenant to your community! Book a Marriage Day in 2026—email: podcast@intimatecovenant.com.
Please support these companies that support Intimate Covenant:
Married Dance — https://marrieddance.com/?aff=29 We’re a Christian-friendly, marriage-centered sex toy and marital aid store for couples that’s nudity-free. Shop from this link for special savings and part of your purchase will support Intimate Covenant.
Coconu — http://www.coconu.com Coconu is committed to helping people lead healthier, happier lives by offering 100% safe and organic personal care products. Your purchase helps support Intimate Covenant AND you get 15% OFF. Coupon Code: intimateconvenant
Date Your Spouse — https://shop.dateyourspouse.com/?sca_ref=6278443.H6eWDeXGfx Strengthening marriages one date at a time. Shop from this link and your part of your purchase will help support Intimate Covenant. Check out their Sexy Subscription Boxes!
Ginger & Peach — https://www.gingerandpeachlingerie.com/ Ginger & Peach lingerie is a Christian husband and wife owned brand bringing classy, model-free lingerie to the market. Get 10% off your order and support Intimate Covenant with code: “INTIMATECOVENANT"
Thanks for sharing, rating, reviewing and subscribing!
Cherishing, Matt & Jenn
PS — If you have been blessed by the message of this podcast, we would deeply appreciate your support by donating to our mission of spreading God’s plan for intimate marriage and holy sexuality.
In this episode, Matt & Jenn answer the following listener questions:
What advice do you have for couples that have great sex but struggle talking about sex? We’ve tried conversation starters but the answers are always brief.
I’m ashamed how much value I place on my spouses physical appearance. Self-improvement is a good virtue, but how do I ensure my motives are not immoral or shallow
I enjoy sleeping naked. My wife hates it. How can I encourage her to try & embrace it regularly. It's a great sensual way to enjoy each other without having sex.
I crave physical touch (not just sexually), as a pursuer how do ask for this without coming across as needy? Rub my back, hold my hand, hug me. How do I ask?
Please support these companies that support Intimate Covenant:
Married Dance — https://marrieddance.com/?aff=29 We’re a Christian-friendly, marriage-centered sex toy and marital aid store for couples that’s nudity-free. Shop from this link for special savings and part of your purchase will support Intimate Covenant.
Coconu — http://www.coconu.com Coconu is committed to helping people lead healthier, happier lives by offering 100% safe and organic personal care products. Your purchase helps support Intimate Covenant AND you get 15% OFF. Coupon Code: intimateconvenant
Ginger & Peach — https://www.gingerandpeachlingerie.com/ Ginger & Peach lingerie is a Christian husband and wife owned brand bringing classy, model-free lingerie to the market. Get 10% off your order and support Intimate Covenant with code: “INTIMATECOVENANT"
Thanks for sharing, rating, reviewing and subscribing!
Cherishing, Matt & Jenn
PS — If you have been blessed by the message of this podcast, we would deeply appreciate your support by donating to our mission of spreading God’s plan for intimate marriage and holy sexuality.
In this episode, Matt & Jenn dig into the mail bag for a potpourri of topics including:
Can scheduling sex still be romantic?
How to prioritize your marriage when facing the challenges of raising a special needs child?
Have we ever been met with resistance by church leaders for talking about marriage and sex?
Do you have any advice for planning a romantic vacation?
As you consider these questions and our answers, take note of the important issues and dynamics in your own relationship. Be willing to ask the hard questions and be confronted by the truth.
Join us at the 2022 Annual Marriage Retreat, September 22-24, in Houston, TX. Registration is now open, but space is limited and we expect to sell out again. So, register today!
Announcing Covenant Club! Our online community with discussion forums (including a wives-only section), monthly interactive webinars, and other resources to help answer your questions, provide encouragements and learn from other covenant-focused couples. Join us! www.intimatecovenant.com/members
Thanks for sharing, rating, reviewing and subscribing!
Cherishing, Matt & Jenn
PS — If you have been blessed by the message of this podcast, we would deeply appreciate your support by donating to our mission of spreading God’s plan for intimate marriage and holy sexuality: www.intimatecovenant.com/donate
In this episode, Matt & Jenn discuss the challenges of rebuilding your sexual relationship and the challenges of maintaining intimacy AFTER the baby comes.
If you are blessed by the birth of children, your sex life and relational intimacy will change, especially in the immediate postpartum timeframe.
You must each acknowledge the physical and emotional challenges of this time with grace, patience, sacrifice and compassion for your spouse.
Your new baby will be most blessed if you learn to prioritize your marriage and your intimacy during this time.
Announcing Covenant Club! -- Join our online community including discussion forums (featuring a wives-only section), monthly interactive webinars, and other exclusive resources. www.intimatecovenant.com/members
* If you have been blessed by the message of this podcast, we would deeply appreciate your support by donating to our mission of spreading God’s plan for intimate marriage and holy sexuality: www.intimatecovenant.com/donate
In this episode Matt & Jenn speak to the challenges of maintaining a sexual relationship and all other realms of connection during pregnancy.
In almost all situations, sex during pregnancy is safe. If you are unsure, ask your health care provider and be sure that you ask specific questions about what’s allowed or not.
Pregnancy will change many things about a woman’s body and biochemistry that might make sex more challenging.
But, there are ways to overcome these obstacles and to grow all points of closeness and intimacy in your marriage during this special time.
Announcing Covenant Club! -- Our online community for covenant lovers including discussion forums and other exclusive resources where you will find a safe place to ask questions and offer encouragement. www.intimatecovenant.com/members
To send your comments, questions and suggestions for the podcast, go to our website: www.intimatecovenant.com/podcast and click on the button: “Connect with the Podcast” for an ANONYMOUS submission form. Or, send an email: podcast@intimatecovenant.com
Thanks for sharing, rating and subscribing!
Cherishing, Matt & Jenn
* If you have been blessed by the message of this podcast, we would deeply appreciate your support by donating to our mission of spreading God’s plan for intimate marriage and holy sexuality: www.intimatecovenant.com/donate
In this episode, Matt and Jenn discuss period sex -- is it biblical? is it healthy? why would I want to? are there ways to make it easier?
If you both are interested, sex during her period is safe, scriptural, and maybe even beneficial. It just may have to look different than at other times.
No, a wife is NOT obligated to perform sexual favors during her period in order to keep her husband from being tempted. An obligation mindset is an objectification of women and demeaning to men.
Whether you engage in any degree of sex or not during her period, be intentional to not let your relationship drift apart during this time.
Announcing Covenant Club! -- launching end of January 2022. Sign up during prelaunch and get the first three months for FREE! www.intimatecovenant.com/members
* If you have been blessed by the message of this podcast, we would deeply appreciate your support by donating to our mission of spreading God’s plan for intimate marriage and holy sexuality: www.intimatecovenant.com/donate
In this episode, Matt & Jenn discuss the oft quoted Bible passage 1 Corinthians 7:1-5 and whether this scripture gives a spouse the right to demand sex from his/her spouse.
Overall, 1 Corinthians 7 teaches that I am obligated to meet the sexual needs of my spouse.
But this passage does NOT give me authority to demand sex from my spouse. Demanding or offering sex out of obligation is not Christ-like and is unhealthy for your marriage.
When there is a sexual fast in your marriage, there needs needs to be ongoing conversation about it and it needs to be for the betterment of the spiritual and emotional relationship.
Come and Meet Us In-Person:
Louisville, KY — March 4 & 5: DESIRING an Intimate Covenant, marriage seminar. Details and register here: www.iclou.fun
Louisville, KY — March 5: God’s Plan for Singleness & Sexuality, all singles aged high school and older. Register by emailing: kmberthold@gmail.com
Tampa, FL — March 26: Tampa Marriage Day! Registration details coming soon. Stay tuned to the podcast and social media.
Announcing Covenant Club! -- launching January 2022. Sign up during prelaunch and get the first three months for FREE! www.intimatecovenant.com/members
* If you have been blessed by the message of this podcast, we would deeply appreciate your support by donating to our mission of spreading God’s plan for intimate marriage and holy sexuality: www.intimatecovenant.com/donate
In this episode, Matt & Jenn discuss the concept of a husband helping with household chores to win sexual favors from his wife, a.k.a. "choreplay." Is this a fun, win-win idea? What are the dangers of this transactional approach to sex?
There is certainly some truth in the idea that a wife will be more inclined toward sex if a husband is willing to help with the endless tasks required to effectively run a home.
Choreplay is a dangerous idea when one or both spouses begin to believe that sex is transactional or husband-focused, rather than a mutually pleasurable means of further building connection.
View sex and household chores in a way that promotes connection — with humility and a servant’s heart.
Announcing Covenant Club! -- launching January 2022. Sign up during prelaunch and get the first three months for FREE! www.intimatecovenant.com/members
* If you have been blessed by the message of this podcast, we would deeply appreciate your support by donating to our mission of spreading God’s plan for intimate marriage and holy sexuality: www.intimatecovenant.com/donate
In this episode, Matt & Jenn share their method of critically assessing the state of their own marital intimacy and some tips on how to have the conversation about setting goals for better connection.
For real progress in your marriage, it’s important to critically evaluate the past and to set goals for the future.
A thorough evaluation of your marriage should include assessment of each realm of intimacy: spiritual, mental, emotional, and physical.
In setting relationship goals, I need to define what I am going to change individually with specific and realistic plan.
We took our own “State of the Covenant” conversation and created a detailed form with conversation starters and a step-by-step breakdown of the process that we use to regularly assess our relationship status and to set intimacy-building goals. We've organized our conversation and the form around the four realms intimacy: spiritual, mental, emotional and physical.
Free for Covenant Club members. If you’ve signed up for pre-launch, we’ll send you this form in an email this week. And once Covenant Club is live, you’ll be able to access the form whenever you want.
* If you are interested in bringing Matt & Jenn to your church or small group to speak about the beauty of God’s plan for marriage and sexuality, please contact us: podcast@intimatecovenant.com
This episode includes segments of a live Q&A session from a recent seminar held in Columbus, Indiana. Matt & Jenn tackle the following questions:
"How do you overcome lack of sexual desire because of physical limitations?"
"Are all forms of sex ok? Are any types of sex with my spouse sinful?"
"I have been wanting to enhance our sexual connections through non-intercourse actives such as kissing on the couch for 5 minutes. However, there is a fear of even starting these activities as then going all the way to ejaculation would be pressured within hours to days following. How do we get past that fear and enjoy more non-intercourse sexual connections?"
"How do you work through when you’ve lost physical attraction?"
"Mental intimacy --'be of the same mind' -- how does that work when sometimes our differences of opinion are strong?"
Announcing Covenant Club! -- launching January 2022. Sign up during prelaunch and get the first three months for FREE! www.intimatecovenant.com/members
* If you have been blessed by the message of this podcast, we would deeply appreciate your support by donating to our mission of spreading God’s plan for intimate marriage and holy sexuality: www.intimatecovenant.com/donate
This episode includes segments of a live Q&A session from a recent seminar held in Columbus, Indiana. Matt & Jenn tackle the following questions:
My husband agreed to get a vasectomy over a year ago, but he still hasn't initiated the process. Our contraception methods are unreliable and this is causing a great deal of anxiety. "How can I let him know we are a team but also that this is so difficult and very emotional for me to go thru each month ...carrying with me the concerns of getting pregnant?"
"When you don’t feel respected, appreciated, admired and wanted, how do you get your desire back to be intimate with your spouse?" "How do you feel desirable when your spouse has a wandering eye?"
"My partner and I started watching a TV show together and over the years the content has become more racy, but not outright pornographic. How do I warn my partner that it’s creating mental temptation without violating their emotional state?"
I have been listening to your podcast every week since week 1. I have been enthusiastic about starting conversations from these episodes almost every week. However, my enthusiasm to have conversation with my spouse some how comes across as pressure and not many words come back. How do I create a safe, open environment that is conducive to my spouse opening up and wanting to discuss these topics?
More Q&A next week...
Announcing Covenant Club! -- launching January 2022. Sign up during prelaunch and get the first three months for FREE! www.intimatecovenant.com/members
* If you have been blessed by the message of this podcast, we would deeply appreciate your support by donating to our mission of spreading God’s plan for intimate marriage and holy sexuality: www.intimatecovenant.com/donate
In this episode, Matt & Jenn challenge you to "embrace conflict" and offer some ground rules on "fighting fair" in your marriage.
Learn to embrace conflict recognizing that conflict is an opportunity to learn more about your spouse. Your job is not to “win” or even eliminate every conflict. Rather your goal is to use conflict to learn to face problems together.
Treat your spouse with love and respect, always. Recognize and avoid the manipulative techniques that you might be using like explosion, silence, withholding, or tears.
You may be right about a certain issue, but if your tone is hurtful you are dead wrong. Value your spouse’s heart over being “right.”
Announcing Covenant Club! -- launching January 2022. Sign up during prelaunch and get the first three months for FREE! www.intimatecovenant.com/members
Join us in Louisville, KY on March 4-5, 2022 for a Marriage Seminar -- "DESIRING an Intimate Covenant." For more details and to register, click the link: www.iclou.fun
* If you are interested in bringing Matt & Jenn to your church or small group to speak about the beauty of God’s plan for marriage and sexuality, please contact us: podcast@intimatecovenant.com
In this episode, Matt & Jenn share another set of clips from the Q&A session at our recent Annual Marriage Retreat. We cover the following questions:
What ways can I warm my spouse up to more public displays of affection?
Discuss navigating, in different seasons, sexual pursuer/responder roles switching. It's not a smooth transition and can be confusing.
What if you are the sexual AND the emotional persuer??
I love giving my wife oral pleasure. She never reciprocates yet enjoys receiving. How do I keep from feeling resentful & help her to grow her desire for this?
Please support these companies that support Intimate Covenant:
Married Dance — https://marrieddance.com/?aff=29 We’re a Christian-friendly, marriage-centered sex toy and marital aid store for couples that’s nudity-free. Shop from this link for special savings and part of your purchase will support Intimate Covenant.
Coconu — http://www.coconu.com Coconu is committed to helping people lead healthier, happier lives by offering 100% safe and organic personal care products. Your purchase helps support Intimate Covenant AND you get 15% OFF. Coupon Code: intimateconvenant
Ginger & Peach — https://www.gingerandpeachlingerie.com/ Ginger & Peach lingerie is a Christian husband and wife owned brand bringing classy, model-free lingerie to the market. Get 10% off your order and support Intimate Covenant with code: “INTIMATECOVENANT"
Thanks for sharing, rating, reviewing and subscribing!
Cherishing, Matt & Jenn
PS — If you have been blessed by the message of this podcast, we would deeply appreciate your support by donating to our mission of spreading God’s plan for intimate marriage and holy sexuality.
In this episode, Matt & Jenn offer advice for sexual pursuers and responders when giving and receiving sexy gifts.
Consider starting a sexy Christmas tradition. This is a great time to gift your sexual relationship by exchanging sexy presents and/or by making time for a Christmas Eve quickie.
If you are a sexual pursuer, be sure that you are primarily considering what is best for encouraging sexual connection for your spouse.
Sexual responders should consider how to get in the Christmas spirit by giving their beloved a generous sexual gift.
Primarily, this season should be an opportunity to find connection amid the chaos. Seek each other first.
Announcing Covenant Club! -- launching January 2022. Sign up during prelaunch and get the first three months for FREE! www.intimatecovenant.com/members
* If you are interested in bringing Matt & Jenn to your church or small group to speak about the beauty of God’s plan for marriage and sexuality, please contact us: podcast@intimatecovenant.com
In this episode (#69), Matt and Jenn discuss sex positions (for no obvious reason). Is it important to learn new things in bed? What meanings do different positions have?
Couples that have many ways to enjoy each other have insurance against monotony, aging, and health-related sexual challenges.
Different sexual styles and positions bring different meanings and points of enjoyment to your sex life.
Above all else, use sex to build connection in your relationship no matter how you do it.
We referenced these helpful resources:
Christian Friendly Sex Positions -- https://www.christianfriendlysexpositions.com
Announcing Covenant Club! -- launching January 2022. Sign up during prelaunch and get the first three months for FREE! www.intimatecovenant.com/members
In this episode, Matt & Jenn discuss how to keep your relationship and your sex life from freezing over during the busy holiday season.
Protect your spouse. Make sure they know that you’ve got their back. Approach your extended families with an “us vs. them” mentality.
Prioritize your spouse and your relationship. You absolutely MUST make time to continue to connect with your spouse, even at the expense of making others happy - even your kids.
Plan ahead so that you are prepared to overcome challenges to your sex life during this holiday season.
Announcing Covenant Club! -- launching January 2022. Sign up during prelaunch and get the first three months for FREE! www.intimatecovenant.com/members
PS - If you are interested in bringing Matt & Jenn to your church or small group to speak about the beauty of God’s plan for marriage and sexuality, please contact us: podcast@intimatecovenant.com
In this episode, Matt & Jenn share an excerpt from a session of the 2021 Retreat, titled, "Submitting to one another -- do I know what my spouse really needs?" Learn new moves to help transform conflict into opportunities for growth and connection.
Real change starts by seeing my spouse more clearly -- empathy. See their circumstances, their struggles and their desires.
If I want change, I have to protect their space for change. I have to reward their vulnerability instead of punishing with judgement, criticism, or coldness.
Recognize that we need each other — interdependency. Begin to see conflicts as opportunities to grow & connect; opportunities to face life together.
Announcing Covenant Club! -- launching January 2022. Sign up during prelaunch and get the first three months for FREE! www.intimatecovenant.com/members
Thanks for sharing, rating and subscribing!
Cherishing, Matt & Jenn
PS — If you are interested in bringing Matt & Jenn to your church or small group to speak about the beauty of God’s plan for marriage and sexuality, please contact us: podcast@intimatecovenant.com
In this episode, Matt & Jenn continue last week's discussion about encouraging husbands to be leaders by specifically addressing spiritual leadership in the home.
Husbands are given the responsibility of overseeing the spiritual growth of the home and this responsibility is often shirked by many men. Many wives longingly desire to see their husbands grow into a strong spiritual leader.
Criticism and pressure are rarely effective ways to motivate a reluctant husband. Instead, be clear and realistic about your expectations, offering praise and gratitude as motivation.
Husbands, spiritual growth is in your best interest. If your wife is like most, your growth as a spiritual leader will exponentially improve your romantic and sexual attractiveness.
PS — If you are interested in bringing Matt & Jenn to your church or small group to speak about the beauty of God’s plan for marriage and sexuality, please contact us: podcast@intimatecovenant.com
In this episode, Matt & Jenn answer a listener question from a wife who wants to know how she can encourage her husband to be a better leader and more engaged in the relationship.
Sometimes, our disappointment with leadership is because we have unrealistic expectations. However, clearly many husbands are negligent in their role as head of their household.
If you are a wife, your best tool to encourage your husband to lead is to be a godly respectful supporter.
Don’t be afraid to hold each other accountable in the roles that God has given.
PS — If you are interested in bringing Matt & Jenn to your church or small group to speak about the beauty of God’s plan for marriage and sexuality, please contact us: podcast@intimatecovenant.com
In this episode, Matt and Jenn answer a listener question about making eye contact during sex. We'll also discuss ways to use eye contact to enhance emotional and sexual pleasure using eye contact.
Eye contact requires vulnerability, but increasing eye contact in your relationship - in and out of the bedroom - can improve emotional and sexual connection.
There may be reasons that we are seeking or avoiding eye contact during sex. This begs the question and conversation needed in your marriage, “What does eye contact during sex mean to me?”
If you want more eye contact, you must be a place for your spouse to feel safe enough to let you “see” them deeply.
PS — If you are interested in bringing Matt & Jenn to your church or small group to speak about the beauty of God’s plan for marriage and sexuality, please contact us: podcast@intimatecovenant.com
In this episode, Matt & Jenn share segments from the 2021 Annual Marriage Retreat Q&A session, recorded with a live audience. We tackle topics including sexy hygiene, dealing with aversion to the sex act, overcoming sexual trauma, and how to "keep striving" without pressuring.
We also want to recognize our Retreat sponsors again. THANK YOU! Married Dance — marrieddance.com Websites that Sell — websitesthatsell.com Ghost Sherpa — ghostsherpa.com InfiniteMoon — infinitemoon.com Mentionables — mentionables.com Dating Divas — thedatingdivas.com Uberlube — uberlube.com
PS — If you are interested in bringing Matt & Jenn to your church or small group to speak about the beauty of God’s plan for marriage and sexuality, please contact us: podcast@intimatecovenant.com
This episode is an excerpt from a LIVE recording at the 2021 Intimate Covenant Annual Marriage Retreat in Houston, TX. Matt & Jenn field questions about recommendations for sex toys, using Skype sex when couples are apart and how to begin the journey to healing after betrayal by pornography addiction.
Thank you to these incredible companies that supported our 2021 Retreat: Married Dance — marrieddance.com Websites That Sell — websitesthatsell.com Ghost Sherpa — ghostsherpa.com InfiniteMoon — infinitemoon.com Mentionables — mentionables.com The Dating Divas — thedatingdivas.com Uberlube — uberlube.com
PS — If you are interested in bringing Matt & Jenn to your church or small group to speak about the beauty of God’s plan for marriage and sexuality, please contact us: podcast@intimatecovenant.com
In this episode Matt & Jenn complete their series on overcoming common barriers to sex with discussion about work, travel (physical separation) and separate bedtimes.
Learning to identify and eliminate barriers to sex in our relationships requires honest introspection and humility. This process will improve our married sex lives, but also benefit every other aspect of your relationship.
Keep your job in perspective. No career or job is worth sacrificing your marriage over.
If you must be physically separated by travel, have a plan for how you will maintain connection while away from each other.
As much as possible, go to bed together. It’s better for your relationship overall and certainly better for your sex life.
PS — If you are interested in bringing Matt & Jenn to your church or small group to speak about the beauty of God’s plan for marriage and sexuality, please contact us: podcast@intimatecovenant.com
This episode is an excerpt from the live Q&A session at the 2024 Annual Marriage Retreat. We’re sharing our response to the following question: “Can you go into further detail on how the act of sex can glorify God?” We’re also sharing our responses to questions about sex toys, solo masturbation, modeling a healthy sexual relationship for your kids, and when to talk to your kids about pornography.
We also want to thank the sponsors of this year's Retreat:
Married Dance
Coconu
The Dating Divas
Honoring Intimates
Ginger & Peach
Ultimate Intimacy
Show Her Off
The Adventure Challenge
J. Parker
Please support these affiliate companies that support Intimate Covenant:
Married Dance — https://marrieddance.com/?aff=29 We’re a Christian-friendly, marriage-centered sex toy and marital aid store for couples that’s nudity-free. Shop from this link for special savings and part of your purchase will support Intimate Covenant.
Coconu — https://www.coconu.com Coconu is committed to helping people lead healthier, happier lives by offering 100% safe and organic personal care products. Your purchase helps support Intimate Covenant AND you get 15% OFF. Coupon Code: intimateconvenant
Ginger & Peach — https://www.gingerandpeachlingerie.com/ Ginger & Peach lingerie is a Christian husband and wife owned brand bringing classy, model-free lingerie to the market. Get 10% off your order and support Intimate Covenant with code: “INTIMATECOVENANT"
Thanks for sharing, rating, reviewing and subscribing!
Cherishing, Matt & Jenn
PS — If you have been blessed by the message of this podcast, we would deeply appreciate your support by donating to our mission of spreading God’s plan for intimate marriage and holy sexuality.
In this episode, Matt and Jenn discuss overcoming some more barriers to sex -- health, aging, screens and humor.
Learning to identify and eliminate barriers to sex in our relationships requires honest introspection and humility. This process will improve our married sex lives, but also benefit every other aspect of your relationship.
Since sex is so much more than joining genitals, we can still have pleasurable and deeply meaningful sex even if our body fails us.
Put down your screens and be willing to lean into vulnerable conversations. The risk and anxiety will be worth it for your relationship.
PS — If you are interested in bringing Matt & Jenn to your church or small group to speak about the beauty of God’s plan for marriage and sexuality, please contact us: podcast@intimatecovenant.com
In this episode, Matt and Jenn discuss how to deal with one of the most challenging barriers to sex ...kids.
Daily life often seems to get in the way, creating barriers that hinder our ability to enjoy the sexual connection we would like to have with one another.
Have an action plan to combat the barriers that interfere with your sex life! Learn to name your barriers, asking yourself “why?” these barriers exist, then share these barriers with your spouse. Be willing to hear their barriers too and then together discuss solutions.
Kids are a beautiful blessing and direct results of the sexual intimacy in your marriage. But, they are also a primary threat to the ongoing sexual intimacy in your marriage if you aren’t taking intentional steps to prioritize your covenant.
PS — If you are interested in bringing Matt & Jenn to your church or small group to speak about the beauty of God’s plan for marriage and sexuality, please contact us: podcast@intimatecovenant.com
In this episode, Matt and Jenn discuss the pitfalls of expecting our spouse to be a mind-reader and how to avoid the fight over sexual rejection.
Neither of you is a mind-reader. Each must be clear about sexual desires and expectations. Foster intimate conversation on all levels in your relationship.
Sexual rejection doesn’t have to result in a fight. Grace, empathy, and compassion are required for each to better understand what sexual rejection means to the other.
When there is greater intimacy overall, sexual rejection is less divisive. But, each of you should also examine how you can reduce the frequency of rejection.
PS — If you are interested in bringing Matt & Jenn to your church or small group to speak about the beauty of God’s plan for marriage and sexuality, please contact us: podcast@intimatecovenant.com
PS — If you are interested in bringing Matt & Jenn to your church or small group to speak about the beauty of God’s plan for marriage and sexuality, please contact us: podcast@intimatecovenant.com
In this episode, Matt & Jenn discuss the importance of creating a master bedroom that is a haven for you and your beloved. Also, we'll share crucial details to consider when choosing the best mattress for sex.
Prioritize your master bedroom. It should be a place of solace and escape with your beloved. Invest the time and effort into making it just that!
Your bedroom is your sex room. Create an atmosphere that helps prepare you emotionally, romantically, physically, and logistically for sex.
Deepen your sexual intimacy by decorating in a way that helps pleasantly engage all of your senses.
PS — If you are interested in bringing Matt & Jenn to your church or small group to speak about the beauty of God’s plan for marriage and sexuality, please contact us: podcast@intimatecovenant.com
In this episode, Matt & Jenn discuss the special way that wives are asked to be submissive to their husbands. Specifically, we consider what this looks like in the sexual relationship.
Like we talked about last week, all are to be “submissive to one another,” yet, there is a special way in which wives are to be submissive to their husbands.
Submission must be defined and practiced in the way that the church is subject to Christ by fulfilling the precious role of womanhood with a “gentle and quiet spirit”.
In the bedroom, wives must be willing to engage in a shared sexual relationship by responding enthusiastically, serving her husband, and owning her responsibility to grow.
PS — If you are interested in bringing Matt & Jenn to your church or small group to speak about the beauty of God’s plan for marriage and sexuality, please contact us: podcast@intimatecovenant.com
In this episode, Matt & Jenn discuss what it means for a husband to be "head of the wife." And, how does this concept extend to the bedroom?
Before attempting to understand headship, I must first recognize my obligation to submit to all. Mutual submission is essential to every human relationship and crucially important between a husband and wife.
Headship is defined and exemplified by Christ’s headship of the church. This means that authority is the smallest part of headship, and only meaningful if exercised through complete self-sacrifice.
My role as a head when it comes to our sexual relationship is to love, protect, nurture and sanctify my wife — spiritually, mentally, emotionally and physically. My needs must come second.
PS — If you are interested in bringing Matt & Jenn to your church or small group to speak about the beauty of God’s plan for marriage and sexuality, please contact us: podcast@intimatecovenant.com
In this episode, Matt & Jenn discuss how a wife can learn to balance her roles as both caregiver (Mom Mode) and lover (Lover Girl).
Most wives struggle to find balance between their roles as a caregiver and lover. But, a wife can learn to be both, at the same time.
Wives can access “Lover-Girl” more easily when they begin actively looking for sexual cues, learn to harness their husband’s sexual energy, and see the benefits of sex for themselves.
Husbands can help by offering and providing a place of retreat from the constant demands on his wife rather than presenting himself as just another need.
PS — If you are interested in bringing Matt & Jenn to your church or small group to speak about the beauty of God’s plan for marriage and sexuality, please contact us: podcast@intimatecovenant.com
In this episode, Matt & Jenn challenge you to bring your heart, soul, strength, and mind to the marriage bed. Plus, get a sneak peak at the theme and topics for the 2021 Marriage Retreat!
The focus of the 2021 Intimate Covenant Retreat is to renew our view of marriage as a spiritual endeavor and elevate our purpose beyond the day-to-day obligations of running a household.
Sex should be a place where a couple joins more than just two sets of genitals. Sex should be an opportunity to connect heart, soul, strength, and mind.
PS — If you are interested in bringing Matt & Jenn to your church or small group to speak about the beauty of God’s plan for marriage and sexuality, please contact us: podcast@intimatecovenant.com
In this episode, Matt & Jenn discuss how the betrayer can help in healing and restoration of the relationship.
If you have betrayed your spouse, you must humbly demonstrate that you feel the pain you have caused AND be willing to drastically change your behavior because of it.
Rebuilding a relationship after betrayal will require time and vulnerability on the part of the betrayer.
With betrayal, understanding the dynamic that led to the betrayal must be part of the healing and restoration of the relationship.
Register for the 2021 Annual Retreat in September: https://intimatecovenant.com/retreat Don't miss the special offer for referring your friends!!!
PS — If you are interested in bringing Matt & Jenn to your church or small group to speak about the beauty of God’s plan for marriage and sexuality, please contact us: podcast@intimatecovenant.com
In this episode, Matt & Jenn discuss the complaint, "My spouse never initiates sex." So, whose job is it, anyway? How can I get my spouse to initiate more often?
Whether it’s sexual connection or any other aspect of your relationship, if you sense a lack of it in your relationship, it’s up to you to initiate what is missing.
If you feel like you are the only one initiating, keep striving. But, recognize — with gratitude — that your spouse may be contributing a whole lot more to your sexual and emotional relationship than what you immediately recognize.
Responders, you can learn to initiate in ways that are comfortable for you and this effort will speak volumes of love to your pursuer.
What Does Sex Mean To My Spouse? If you’ve been married for more than 5 minutes, you recognize that you and your spouse see sex differently. Our intention with this eCourse is to challenge you to think about your sexual relationship in ways that you might not have ever considered before. We want to facilitate deep introspection and fruitful conversations between you and your spouse to help you build intimacy and oneness.
Make Better Connections We all suffer occasions when our attempts to connect are ignored or rejected. This course will help you make better connections in your marriage — emotionally and sexually. Learn to pursue and respond to your spouse with passionate, irresistible vulnerability
Please support these companies that support Intimate Covenant:
Thanks for sharing, rating, reviewing and subscribing!
Cherishing, Matt & Jenn
PS — If you have been blessed by the message of this podcast, we would deeply appreciate your support by donating to our mission of spreading God’s plan for intimate marriage and holy sexuality.
In this episode, Matt & Jenn discuss some research and statistics about how normal couples have sex.
Most married couples have sex between twice a month to twice a week, depending on which data you look at. Sexual frequency does decline with age, but older couples still have fairly frequent sex.
Nearly all couples have intercourse. Many also engage in oral sex and partnered masturbation.
Sexual frequency and sexual practices do not necessarily correlate with relationship quality. Ultimately, our sexual practices and frequencies should be determined by what is best for the oneness in our relationship, not driven by trying to be “normal” or “average.”
PS — If you are interested in bringing Matt & Jenn to your church or small group to speak about the beauty of God’s plan for marriage and sexuality, please contact us: podcast@intimatecovenant.com
Please send your comments, questions and suggestions to podcast@intimatecovenant.com Thanks for sharing, rating and subscribing!
Cherishing, Matt & Jenn
PS — If you are interested in bringing Matt & Jenn to your church or small group to speak about the beauty of God’s plan for marriage and sexuality, please contact us: podcast@intimatecovenant.com
In this episode, Matt & Jenn challenge and encourage us to put in the hard work necessary to grow and expand our sexual relationship.
Believing that great sex just occurs spontaneously and effortlessly is actually preventing us from achieving good sex.
Great sex, like any other mastery, is the product of consistent, intentional work over time.
Take responsibility for your part in growing your sexual relationship. Then, commit yourself to learning, cultivating and expanding your sex towards greater oneness.
Please send your comments, questions and suggestions to podcast@intimatecovenant.com Thanks for sharing, rating and subscribing!
Cherishing, Matt & Jenn
PS — If you are interested in bringing Matt & Jenn to your church or small group to speak about the beauty of God’s plan for marriage and sexuality, please contact us: podcast@intimatecovenant.com
In this episode, Matt & Jenn consider guidelines that honor God and our spouses when talking to our friends about sex.
It is important for God’s people to be talking about sex in a positive and holy way. There is power in a community of believers sharing the beauty of God’s plan.
But, sharing intimate details about your personal sex life with anyone other than your spouse is a betrayal. Don’t do it.
Follow the lead of Scripture. There is a way to talk about sex that is wholesome and appropriate without giving away all of your privacy.
Please send your comments, questions and suggestions to podcast@intimatecovenant.com Thanks for sharing, rating and subscribing!
Cherishing, Matt & Jenn
PS — If you are interested in bringing Matt & Jenn to your church or small group to speak about the beauty of God’s plan for marriage and sexuality, please contact us: podcast@intimatecovenant.com
In this episode, Matt & Jenn share some of their favorite marriage and sex book recommendations.
Find good resources that encourage your marriage and share these with you spouse.
If you have trouble in your marriage, seek help from those capable of helping — spiritual mentors, church elders, and professional therapists.
If you are a leader, especially in your local congregation, strengthen your marriage. And, equip yourself to help other marriages by developing a biblical view of marriage and sex — good books or other resources can help.
Good Books for Leaders (but really for everyone)
Hold Me Tight by Sue Johnson
7 Principles for Making Marriage Work by John Gottman
General Marriage & Sexuality Books
Sacred Marriage by Gary Thomas
Cherish by Gary Thomas
God Loves Sex by Dan Allender & Tremper Longman III
Intimate Allies by Dan Allender & Tremper Longman III
Wives
Hot, Holy and Humorous by J Parker (also a blog by the same name)
The Good Girls Guide to Great Sex by Sheila Gregoire
PreMarital
Not Yet Married by Marshall Segal
9 Conversations for a Doubt Free Wedding by Gary Thomas
Please send your comments, questions and suggestions to podcast@intimatecovenant.com Thanks for sharing, rating and subscribing!
Cherishing, Matt & Jenn
PS — If you are interested in bringing Matt & Jenn to your church or small group to speak about the beauty of God’s plan for marriage and sexuality, please contact us: podcast@intimatecovenant.com
In this episode, Matt & Jenn answer questions about using private masturbation as a way to help deal with sexual desire and arousal differences between spouses.
Any two individuals in a marriage will be quite different when it comes to sexual desire and motivations for sex. Our challenge is to recognize these differences and turn toward each other with empathy, humility, and service.
The purpose of our sexual relationship is to promote, accentuate and motivate the fullness of connection in a covenant relationship. We should be motivated to serve our spouse, learn about them, and grow together.
When we change the focus of sex to be primarily about pleasure, orgasm, or arousal (especially our own); then we miss the fulness of the sexual connection and the opportunity to benefit the whole relationship.
Please send your comments, questions and suggestions to podcast@intimatecovenant.com Thanks for sharing, rating and subscribing!
Cherishing, Matt & Jenn
PS — If you are interested in bringing Matt & Jenn to your church or small group to speak about the beauty of God’s plan for marriage and sexuality, please contact us: podcast@intimatecovenant.com
In this episode, Matt & Jenn tackle a listener's email question, "Should we tell our kids about the sexual sins of our past? How much should we share?"
Talking to your kids about sex must be an ongoing conversation so that they feel comfortable about the topic and that they see you as experts for sex and relationship advice.
Sharing your failings with your kids doesn’t make you less respectable, it makes you more relatable. It makes you more credible, especially if you are frank, honest and vulnerable in every aspect of your life.
In conversations with your kids about sex and your own failings, focus on the grace of God — His power and the beauty of His plan.
Please send your comments, questions and suggestions to podcast@intimatecovenant.com Thanks for sharing, rating and subscribing!
Cherishing, Matt & Jenn
PS — If you are interested in bringing Matt & Jenn to your church or small group to speak about the beauty of God’s plan for marriage and sexuality, please contact us: podcast@intimatecovenant.com
In this episode, Matt & Jenn share their personal struggles with marriage and sex. You won't want to miss this touching and vulnerable episode.
We want you to know that you’re not alone. We know brokenness. But we also know redemption, restoration and unity through the power of the gospel and God’s plan for marriage and sex.
We’re here to share that with you and to build a community for vulnerability and encouragement.
Please send your comments, questions and suggestions to podcast@intimatecovenant.com Thanks for sharing, rating and subscribing!
Cherishing, Matt & Jenn
PS — If you are interested in bringing Matt & Jenn to your church or small group to speak about the beauty of God’s plan for marriage and sexuality, please contact us: podcast@intimatecovenant.com
In this episode, Matt & Jenn challenge you to carefully evaluate whether your sex routines are really the best way to promote connection.
Every couple has a sexual routine or script that they follow for most sexual encounters. But is your routine promoting the best sex and most connection for your marriage?
Start by busting the myth that sex starts with intercourse and ends with ejaculation. Make love all day, every day, by frequently connecting emotional and sexually.
Assess every stage of your sexual routine and determine if there is something that you can do to facilitate, enhance or extend your sexual script so that you are building oneness and maximizing pleasure.
Please send your comments, questions and suggestions to podcast@intimatecovenant.com Thanks for sharing, rating and subscribing!
Cherishing, Matt & Jenn
PS — If you are interested in bringing Matt & Jenn to your church or small group to speak about the beauty of God’s plan for marriage and sexuality, please contact us: podcast@intimatecovenant.com
Please send your comments, questions and suggestions to podcast@intimatecovenant.com Thanks for sharing, rating and subscribing!
Cherishing, Matt & Jenn
PS — If you are interested in bringing Matt & Jenn to your church or small group to speak about the beauty of God’s plan for marriage and sexuality, please contact us: podcast@intimatecovenant.com
In this episode, Matt & Jenn compare the sexual relationship to a hurricane. Sex, like a hurricane, is a powerful, God-given force. While we can’t direct the path of a hurricane, quiet the gale-force winds, or suppress the rising waters, we do have control over the effects of sex in our own marriages.
The forces of a hurricane are mostly destructive. But the power of sexual desire can be channeled to constructive, passionate and intimate relationship.
The damage of hurricane-driven wind and water is unavoidable, but the damage of poorly planned sex is entirely preventable.
When confronted by unexpected storms in your sex-life, use these challenges to further demonstrate your creativity and self-sacrificial love.
Please support these companies that support Intimate Covenant:
Married Dance — https://marrieddance.com/?aff=29 Shop from this link for special savings and part of your purchase will support Intimate Covenant.
Coconu — http://www.coconu.com Your purchase helps support Intimate Covenant AND you get 15% OFF. Coupon Code: intimateconvenant
Thanks for sharing, rating, reviewing and subscribing!
Cherishing, Matt & Jenn
PS — If you have been blessed by the message of this podcast, we would deeply appreciate your support by donating to our mission of spreading God’s plan for intimate marriage and holy sexuality.
Please send your comments, questions and suggestions to podcast@intimatecovenant.com Thanks for sharing, rating and subscribing!
Cherishing, Matt & Jenn
PS — If you are interested in bringing Matt & Jenn to your church or small group to speak about the beauty of God’s plan for marriage and sexuality, please contact us: podcast@intimatecovenant.com
Please send your comments, questions and suggestions to podcast@intimatecovenant.com Thanks for sharing, rating and subscribing!
Cherishing, Matt & Jenn
PS — If you are interested in bringing Matt & Jenn to your church or other group to speak about the beauty of God’s plan for marriage and sexuality, please contact us: podcast@intimatecovenant.com
Matt & Jenn continue the discussion challenging wives to consider why they might be resistant to hot, holy sex in their marriage bed.
A wife may be resistant to sex because she is morally conflicted or is carrying shame from sexual sin or trauma. The answer is to allow your mind, body, heart and soul to be transformed by the blood of Jesus. Get the help that you need from God’s word and God’s people, including a professional counselor if needed.
Another reason why a wife may be resistant to exploring sex with her husband is that she feels insecure with the sexual boundaries of the relationship. Confident sex requires conversations about firm sexual boundaries.
A wife is uniquely capable of teaching her husband how to connect emotionally THROUGH sex. Commit to connecting emotionally within the context of sexual arousal.
Please send your comments, questions and suggestions to podcast@intimatecovenant.com Thanks for sharing, rating and subscribing!
Cherishing, Matt & Jenn
PS — If you are interested in bringing Matt & Jenn to your church or small group to speak about the beauty of God’s plan for marriage and sexuality, please contact us: podcast@intimatecovenant.com