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Send us Fan Mail In this episode we conclude our Song of Songs series with a break down the biggest interpretive debates around Song of Songs and explain why a purely allegorical reading collapses the text into endless guesswork. We also name the book’s core themes, showing how covenant marriage, erotic desire, and spiritual meaning fit together without embarrassment. why Song of Songs often gets treated as allegory onlywhat an allegory is and why the text never labels itself that wayhow bad presuppositions about sex distort Bible interpretationwhy canonicity objections usually come from discomforthow Scripture uses marriage as a metaphor without erasing earthly marriageexamples of hymn lyrics that ignore contextSong of Songs themes: mutual pleasure, exclusivity, intimacy, passion, beautySign up for the annual Intimate Covenant Marriage Retreat where we will dig into these themes from the Song of Songs: intimatecovenant.com/retreat For a deeper dive, here's a list recommended resources to expand your perspective to help with reading the Song of Songs: Allender, Dan B., and Tremper Longman III. God Loves Sex: An Honest Conversation about Sexual Desire and Holiness. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books, 2014. Alter, Robert, trans. Strong as Death Is Love: The Song of Songs, Ruth, Esther, Jonah, and Daniel: A Translation with Commentary. New York: W. W. Norton & Company, 2015.  Longman III, Tremper. Song of Songs. New International Commentary on the Old Testament. Grand Rapids, MI: William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 2001.  Pope, Marvin H. Song of Songs: A New Translation with Introduction and Commentary. The Anchor Bible, vol. 7C. Garden City, NY: Doubleday, 1977.  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: intimateconvenantDate Your Spouse (formerly, Dating Divas) — https://dateyourspouse.myshopify.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!Honoring Intimates — https://www.honoringintimates.com/?ref=INTIMATECOVENANT Modest and classy premium lingerie, model-free. Get 20% off and support Intimate Covenant with your purchase.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"   To send your comments, questions and suggestions, go to our website: www.intimatecovenant.com/podcast and click on the button: “Contact the Podcast” for an ANONYMOUS submission form. Or, send an email: [email protected]   Thanks for sharing, rating, reviewing and subscribing!      Cherishing,   Matt & Jenn Support the show

Send us Fan Mail 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. We keep our Song of Songs series going by unpacking the main characters and what their symbolism says about marriage, desire, and intimacy.  why the lovers are unnamed and ageless, inviting us to see ourselves in the poems why we read the Song of Songs as an anthology of love poems rather than a strict timeline the wife as the primary voice, including initiation, pursuit, and desire body image and modest self-talk contrasted with a husband’s verbal affirmation the husband as “beloved,” including the power of affectionate, honoring language daughters of Jerusalem as a chorus for discipleship and sexual wisdom the mother’s role in sexual instruction and marriage formation brothers and watchmen as cultural forces that restrict, harm, or create barriers sexual trauma named in the text and the hope of healing through safe intimacy Join us at the annual Intimate Covenant Marriage Retreat: intimatecovenant.com/retreat For a deeper dive, here's a list recommended resources to expand your perspective to help with reading the Song of Songs: Allender, Dan B., and Tremper Longman III. God Loves Sex: An Honest Conversation about Sexual Desire and Holiness. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books, 2014. Alter, Robert, trans. Strong as Death Is Love: The Song of Songs, Ruth, Esther, Jonah, and Daniel: A Translation with Commentary. New York: W. W. Norton & Company, 2015.  Longman III, Tremper. Song of Songs. New International Commentary on the Old Testament. Grand Rapids, MI: William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 2001.  Pope, Marvin H. Song of Songs: A New Translation with Introduction and Commentary. The Anchor Bible, vol. 7C. Garden City, NY: Doubleday, 1977.  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: intimateconvenantDate Your Spouse (formerly, Dating Divas) — https://dateyourspouse.myshopify.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!Honoring Intimates — https://www.honoringintimates.com/?ref=INTIMATECOVENANT Modest and classy premium lingerie, model-free. Get 20% off and support Intimate Covenant with your purchase.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"   To send your comments, questions and suggestions, go to our website: www.intimatecovenant.com/podcast and click on the button: “Contact the Podcast” for an ANONYMOUS submission form. Or, send an email: [email protected]   Thanks for sharing, rating, reviewing and subscribing!      Cherishing,   Matt & Jenn Support the show

Send us Fan Mail 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. We're starting a series to lay the groundwork for reading the Song of Songs with clarity. In this episode we discuss the title, authorship, and the book’s unique structure. We share why our approach may feel less traditional (it's really not), yet still honors Scripture and helps couples talk about covenant love and sex without forcing the text into a storyline it never claims to be.  why we call it Song of Songs rather than Song of Solomon where the book sits in the Hebrew canon and why it is read at Passover what Solomon’s name might signal without proving authorship why Aramaic and historical clues suggest a later composition how poetic devices and double entendre shape meaning and modesty why a narrative plot creates confusion and why an anthology reading fits better how seeing it as a romantic playlist helps couples study and discuss it together Join us at the annual Intimate Covenant Marriage Retreat. This year our theme is BELOVED - exploring love and romance in the Song of Songs. For a deeper dive, here's a list recommended resources to expand your perspective and help in reading the Song of Songs: Allender, Dan B., and Tremper Longman III. God Loves Sex: An Honest Conversation about Sexual Desire and Holiness. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books, 2014. Alter, Robert, trans. Strong as Death Is Love: The Song of Songs, Ruth, Esther, Jonah, and Daniel: A Translation with Commentary. New York: W. W. Norton & Company, 2015.  Longman III, Tremper. Song of Songs. New International Commentary on the Old Testament. Grand Rapids, MI: William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 2001.  Pope, Marvin H. Song of Songs: A New Translation with Introduction and Commentary. The Anchor Bible, vol. 7C. Garden City, NY: Doubleday, 1977.  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: intimateconvenantDate Your Spouse (formerly, Dating Divas) — https://dateyourspouse.myshopify.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!Honoring Intimates — https://www.honoringintimates.com/?ref=INTIMATECOVENANT Modest and classy premium lingerie, model-free. Get 20% off and support Intimate Covenant with your purchase.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"   To send your comments, questions and suggestions, go to our website: www.intimatecovenant.com/podcast and click on the button: “Contact the Podcast” for an ANONYMOUS submission form. Or, send an email: [email protected]   Thanks for sharing, rating, reviewing and subscribing!      Cherishing,   Matt & Jenn Support the show

Send us Fan Mail We explore  findings from three recent scientific studies that show how flexible expectations, strong relationships, and emotional meaning shape a lifetime of sexual satisfaction in marriage.  Bouchard KN, Cormier M, Huberman JS, Rosen NO. Sexual script flexibility and sexual well-being in long-term couples. Journal of Sexual Medicine. 2023. Tavares IM, Rosen NO, Heiman JR, Nobre PJ. Longitudinal associations between relational and sexual well-being. Family Process. 2024. Henninger W, Heinz M, Taylor N. Love, Sex & Aging. Social Sciences. 2025.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. Additional info: Ladies, make your voice and experience heard, take part in new sex research: The Lived Experience of Marital Sex: Women's Perspectives -- www.surveymonkey.com/r/QRWQPWK Join us at the Intimate Covenant Annual Marriage Retreat -- details and registration: www.intimatecovenant.com/retreat RiverHills Retreat Marriage Enrichment Weekend -- Hayden, Alabama; April 18th. Register here: intimatecovenant/alabama 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: intimateconvenantDating Divas — https://thedatingdivas.myshopify.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!Honoring Intimates — https://www.honoringintimates.com/?ref=INTIMATECOVENANT Modest and classy premium lingerie, model-free. Get 20% off and support Intimate Covenant with your purchase.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"   To send your comments, questions and suggestions, go to our website: www.intimatecovenant.com/podcast and click on the button: “Contact the Podcast” for an ANONYMOUS submission form. Or, send an email: [email protected]   Thanks for sharing, rating, reviewing and subscribing! Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we share a few more segments from our live Q&A at the 2025 Annual Retreat; all of these had to do with the pursuer-responder dynamic. Specifically, we covered questions about: What is God teaching me through the pursuer-responder dynamic?Is compromise the answer to sexual desire discrepancy?What if, despite the sterotype, the husband doesn’t want sex?How should a wife deal with the role of reluctant dual-pursuer? Register at intimatecovenant.com/Alabama for the River Hills Retreat Marriage Enrichment Weekend in North Alabama. Registration for the 2026 Intimate Covenant Annual Marriage Retreat opens on February 14th. intimatecovenant.com/retreat 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: intimateconvenantDating Divas — https://thedatingdivas.myshopify.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!Honoring Intimates — https://www.honoringintimates.com/?ref=INTIMATECOVENANT Modest and classy premium lingerie, model-free. Get 20% off and support Intimate Covenant with your purchase.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"   To send your comments, questions and suggestions, go to our website: www.intimatecovenant.com/podcast and click on the button: “Contact the Podcast” for an ANONYMOUS submission form. Or, send an email: [email protected]   Thanks for sharing, rating, reviewing and subscribing!   Cherishing,   Matt & Jenn Join us at Patreon: www.patreon.com/intimatecovenant  www.intimatecovenant.com Intimate Covenant | Matt & Jenn Schmidt Support the show

Send us Fan Mail 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: intimateconvenantDate 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!Honoring Intimates — https://www.honoringintimates.com/?ref=INTIMATECOVENANT Modest and classy premium lingerie, model-free. Get 20% off and support Intimate Covenant with your purchase.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"   To send your comments, questions and suggestions, go to our website: www.intimatecovenant.com/podcast and click on the button: “Contact the Podcast” for an ANONYMOUS submission form. Or, send an email: [email protected]   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. Join us at Patreon: www.patreon.com/intimatecovenant Consider a one-time gift: www.intimatecovenant.com/donate  www.intimatecovenant.com Intimate Covenant | Matt & Jenn Schmidt Support the show

Send us Fan Mail 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: [email protected].  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: intimateconvenantDate 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!Honoring Intimates — https://www.honoringintimates.com/?ref=INTIMATECOVENANT Modest and classy premium lingerie, model-free. Get 20% off and support Intimate Covenant with your purchase.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"   To send your comments, questions and suggestions, go to our website: www.intimatecovenant.com/podcast and click on the button: “Contact the Podcast” for an ANONYMOUS submission form. Or, send an email: [email protected]   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. Join us at on Patreon: www.patreon.com/intimatecovenant Consider a one-time gift: www.intimatecovenant.com/donate  www.intimatecovenant.com Intimate Covenant | Matt & Jenn Schmidt Support the show

Send us Fan Mail We trace how Darwin and Freud shaped cultural ideas about sex and how these philosophies have infiltrated even modern religion. Darwin and Freud both rejected a divine order of the universe or a spiritual guide for moral and ethical living. Their influences profoundly shape the course of modern philosophy and our current society.Many modern Christians have unwittingly adopted influences from Darwin and Freud into their own theology, especially in how we approach sexuality and sexual desire.We must reject the idea that sex is purely biological or that sex is in contrast to spirituality. The Bible teaches that sexuality is created by God with spiritual significance, purpose and importance.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: intimateconvenantDating Divas — https://thedatingdivas.myshopify.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!Honoring Intimates — https://www.honoringintimates.com/?ref=INTIMATECOVENANT Modest and classy premium lingerie, model-free. Get 20% off and support Intimate Covenant with your purchase.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"   To send your comments, questions and suggestions, go to our website: www.intimatecovenant.com/podcast and click on the button: “Contact the Podcast” for an ANONYMOUS submission form. Or, send an email: [email protected]   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. Join us at Patreon: www.patreon.com/intimatecovenant  www.intimatecovenant.com Intimate Covenant | Matt & Jenn Schmidt Support the show

Send us Fan Mail Augustine and subsequent Medieval sexual theology have profoundly influenced modern Christian teachings on sexuality, often causing unnecessary shame and restrictions that aren't biblically based. During the Middle Ages, the influence of Augustine, with echoes of Greek philosophy, intensified into even more unnecessarily restrictive laws and unbiblical teachings about sex. Contrary to Augustine and classic Catholic doctrine, celibacy is not more holy than marriage. The Bible teaches that marriage and the pleasures of married sex are a gift from God. 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: intimateconvenantDating Divas — https://thedatingdivas.myshopify.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!Honoring Intimates — https://www.honoringintimates.com/?ref=INTIMATECOVENANT Modest and classy premium lingerie, model-free. Get 20% off and support Intimate Covenant with your purchase.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"   To send your comments, questions and suggestions, go to our website: www.intimatecovenant.com/podcast and click on the button: “Contact the Podcast” for an ANONYMOUS submission form. Or, send an email: [email protected]   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. Join us at Patreon: www.patreon.com/intimatecovenant Consider a one-time gift: www.intimatecovenant.com/donate  www.intimatecovenant.com Intimate Covenant | Matt & Jenn Schmidt Support the show

Send us Fan Mail Matt and Jenn explore how ancient Greek philosophy has shaped modern Christian attitudes toward sexuality, creating an unbiblical culture of shame and stigma around sexual desire. • Plato's dualism in the 4th century BC separated body and soul, viewing bodily desires as inferior to spiritual pursuits • Stoicism further emphasized suppression of passions, teaching that sex was only acceptable within marriage and solely for procreation • The Apostle Paul directly confronted these philosophies, calling those who forbid marriage and require abstinence "liars" devoted to "deceitful spirits" • Paul teaches in 1 Timothy 4 that everything created by God is good and should be received with thanksgiving • The biblical solution to misdirected desire isn't suppression but redirection toward what truly fulfills • Proverbs 5 instructs husbands to "be intoxicated" by their wives' love—language of abundance, not restraint • Sexual desire isn't worldly or dangerous but God-designed to teach us about our need for connection • Modern Christians must examine where their beliefs about sexuality come from—Scripture or Greek philosophy Join us for our annual retreat, September 18-20th, focusing on ONEness in marriage. Register at intimatecovenent.com/retreat. 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: intimateconvenantDating Divas — https://thedatingdivas.myshopify.com?sca_ref=6278443.H6eWDeXGfx Shop from this link and your part of your purchase will help support Intimate Covenant. Check out their Sexy Subscription Boxes!Honoring Intimates — https://www.honoringintimates.com/?ref=INTIMATECOVENANT Get 20% off and support Intimate Covenant with your purchase.Ginger & Peach — https://www.gingerandpeachlingerie.com/ Get 10% off your order and support Intimate Covenant with code: “INTIMATECOVENANT"   To send your comments, questions and suggestions, go to our website: www.intimatecovenant.com/podcast and click on the button: “Contact the Podcast” for an ANONYMOUS submission form. Or, send an email: [email protected]   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. Join us at Patreon: www.patreon.com/intimatecovenant  www.intimatecovenant.com Intimate Covenant | Matt & Jenn Schmidt Support the show

Send us Fan Mail Matt and Jenn use a cooking analogy to explore how great married sex requires more than just "spices" – it needs solid foundational ingredients of spiritual, emotional, mental, and physical connection. • Adding more spice to bad ingredients doesn't make a dish better; it likely makes it worse. • In struggling marriages, focusing solely on sexual excitement without addressing overall closeness leaves couples unsatisfied • All aspects of intimacy (spiritual, emotional, mental, physical) are interconnected and strengthen each other • The upcoming annual retreat will explore the theme "One" and these interconnected aspects of intimacy. Join us for our annual marriage retreat, September 18-20, featuring special musical guest Trey Keller! Register at intimatecovenantcom/retreat. If you'd like to help couples attend through our scholarship fund, donate here: https://intimatecovenant.com/donate/ Or,  contact us at podcast@intimatecovenantcom *** Check out Matt's interview by Nate Whitson of the Get in the Fight Podcast 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. Coconu — http://www.coconu.com Coconu is committed to helping people lead healthier, happier lives by offering 100% safe and organic personal care products. Dating Divas — https://thedatingdivas.myshopify.com?sca_ref=6278443.H6eWDeXGfx Strengthening marriages one date at a time. Check out their Sexy Subscription Boxes!Honoring Intimates — https://www.honoringintimates.com/?ref=INTIMATECOVENANT Modest and classy premium lingerie, model-free. Get 20% off and support Intimate Covenant with your purchase.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"   To send your comments, questions and suggestions, go to our website: www.intimatecovenant.com/podcast and click on the button: “Contact the Podcast” for an ANONYMOUS submission form. Or, send an email: [email protected]   Thanks for sharing, rating, reviewing and subscribing!     Cherishing,   Matt & Jenn  www.intimatecovenant.com Intimate Covenant | Matt & Jenn Schmidt Support the show

Send us Fan Mail 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. Difficult conversations are at the heart of successful marriages, yet many struggle with vulnerability and emotional expression. We explore practical ways to share feelings authentically and address how to reveal past mistakes you've been hiding. Sharing your feelings can be a difficult conversation for some. This is a skill which may require intentional practice.Vulnerability is the heart of intimate relationships. Revealing the fullness of yourself is the only way to be loved for who you really are.Join us on Patreon to access our Emotion Wheel and other helpful resources: Please support these companies that support Intimate Covenant: www.patreon.com/intimatecovenant 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: intimateconvenantDating Divas — https://thedatingdivas.myshopify.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!Honoring Intimates — https://www.honoringintimates.com/?ref=INTIMATECOVENANT Modest and classy premium lingerie, model-free. Get 20% off and support Intimate Covenant with your purchase.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"   To send your comments, questions and suggestions, go to our website: www.intimatecovenant.com/podcast and click on the button: “Contact the Podcast” for an ANONYMOUS submission form. Or, send an email: [email protected]   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. Join us at Patreon: www.patreon.com/intimatecovenant Consider a one-time gift: www.intimatecovenant.com/donate  www.intimatecovenant.com Intimate Covenant | Matt & Jenn Schmidt Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Matt & Jenn tackle the concept of "organic sex" and whether truly spontaneous intimacy is even possible in a long-term marriage. The myth that good sex should just naturally happen without planning or effort has damaged many marriages and created unrealistic expectations. • Sex is natural but not naturally perfect - it requires intentional cultivation • Many couples believe the Hollywood myth that passionate encounters should happen effortlessly  • The best sex flows from creating space for connection across all dimensions of intimacy • Physical intimacy is not separate from emotional, spiritual, and intellectual connection • Seemingly "spontaneous" encounters are actually built on intentional groundwork • Great sex isn't about spontaneity but about co-creating an environment where intimacy flourishes • Most of what builds great sex happens outside the bedroom through everyday connection • When couples focus on building multi-level intimacy, sex becomes a natural byproduct 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: intimateconvenantDating Divas — https://thedatingdivas.myshopify.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!Honoring Intimates — https://www.honoringintimates.com/?ref=INTIMATECOVENANT Modest and classy premium lingerie, model-free. Get 20% off and support Intimate Covenant with your purchase.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"   To send your comments, questions and suggestions, go to our website: www.intimatecovenant.com/podcast and click on the button: “Contact the Podcast” for an ANONYMOUS submission form. Or, send an email: [email protected]   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. Join us at Patreon: www.patreon.com/intimatecovenant  www.intimatecovenant.com Intimate Covenant | Matt & Jenn Schmidt Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Matt & Jenn share an encore episode about reassessing your expectations for your marriage and moving the trajectory of your relationship through personal investment. Mature past the selfish motivations of relationship and begin to see the true fulfillment of covenant love built on self-sacrifice — in your marriage and in your relationship to God.Instead of asking "What do I want FROM my marriage?", change your perspective with a new question: “What do I want FOR my marriage?” Consider what more you can offer toward your covenant?Begin the assessment of your relationship with humility and self-reflection. Then, have a conversation with your spouse to determine what you can do for them and for your marriage.  Download our State of the Covenant resource to help you assess your marriage and start the conversations to build better intimacy in 2025. intimatecovenant.com/shop Marriage Retreat 2025 registration opens February 14th: intimatecovenant.com/retreat   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: intimateconvenantDating Divas — https://thedatingdivas.myshopify.com?sca_ref=6278443.H6eWDeXGfx Shop from this link and your part of your purchase will help support Intimate Covenant. Check out their Sexy Subscription Boxes!Honoring Intimates — https://www.honoringintimates.com/?ref=INTIMATECOVENANT Get 20% off and support Intimate Covenant with your purchase.Ginger & Peach — https://www.gingerandpeachlingerie.com/ Get 10% off your order and support Intimate Covenant with code: “INTIMATECOVENANT"   To send your comments, questions and suggestions, go to our website: www.intimatecovenant.com/podcast and click on the button: “Contact the Podcast” for an ANONYMOUS submission form. Or, send an email: [email protected]   Thanks for sharing, rating, reviewing and subscribing!   Cherishing,   Matt & Jenn www.intimatecovenant.com Intimate Covenant | Matt & Jenn Schmidt Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this "Christmas Q&A Potpourri" episode, Matt & Jenn are sharing segments from previous live Q&A sessions. We're answering the following questions: Should I sacrifice my desire for sexual intimacy if my spouse does not desire sex?What are your favorite topics of conversation for rejuvenation and reconnection?How do I handle my spouse being defensive when i ask them any question?How do I grieve unmet expectations?How often should we be having date nights and get-aways?Do you have any suggestions for making our bedroom a sacred space? Get the "State of the Covenant" printable worksheet: https://intimatecovenant.com/shop/ 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: intimateconvenantDating Divas — https://thedatingdivas.myshopify.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!Honoring Intimates — https://www.honoringintimates.com/?ref=INTIMATECOVENANT Modest and classy premium lingerie, model-free. Get 20% off and support Intimate Covenant with your purchase.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"   To send your comments, questions and suggestions, go to our website: www.intimatecovenant.com/podcast and click on the button: “Contact the Podcast” for an ANONYMOUS submission form. Or, send an email: [email protected]   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. Join us at Patreon: www.patreon.com/intimatecovenant Consider a one-time gift: www.intimatecovenant.com/donate  www.intimatecovenant.com Intimate Covenant | Matt & Jenn Schmidt Support the show