Protecting Intimacy // Song of Songs 5:2-9

·44 min·4 clips

Falling in love is easy, but staying in love requires the same effort—why do we forget this?

The episode begins by contrasting the ease of falling in love with the effort required to stay in love, setting up a central theme. Pastor Josh then narrows the focus to men, discussing biblical calls for men to lead, sacrifice, and serve like Jesus, while addressing cultural confusion. He shares a personal story about neglecting his wife Katie's dreams early in their marriage, leading to a realization and apology. The concept of 'pursuit' is introduced as key to protecting intimacy, defined as knowing and caring for the other person. Josh explains that pursuit involves small, daily actions rather than grand gestures, and he critiques the lie that men aren't planners. He emphasizes protecting relationships from 'foxes' like porn, schedules, or outside influences. The sermon ties human pursuit to theological themes, using communion as a reminder of Christ's relentless pursuit. Throughout, Josh applies lessons to various relationship stages, from dating to marriage, and includes practical advice like asking deep questions and setting boundaries.

As heard by us

A focused sermon on attention, pursuit, and the hard conversations that help protect intimacy.

This single-episode sermon frames intimacy as something practiced through attention, not simply felt. It moves from the habits that start love to the habits that sustain it, asking listeners to notice a partner's wounds, family patterns, and ways of handling disagreement.

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Why you'd press play

Press play when love feels easy and staying close feels like the harder assignment.

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