In this episode, Matt and Jenn offer advice to a wife (and the rest of us) who is suffering from performance anxiety in the bedroom and having a hard time letting go of her embarrassment and awkwardness.

1. Private, selfish masturbation habits, even those that started before marriage, will have a negative impact on your married sex life. It might be time for you to acknowledge and confront those behaviors.
2. Sex requires vulnerability. The fear sharing all of ourselves can be overwhelming and can definitely stifle our depth of sexual intimacy and pleasure.
3. To help alleviate this anxiety, start small. Learn to talk more deeply and intimately about sex. Learn to more fully share yourself in and out of the bedroom. Engage in practices that gradually allow you to become more and more comfortable with your self and with each other. 

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! www.intimatecovenant.com/retreat

Announcing Covenant Club! Our online community with discussion forums (including husbands-only and wives-only sections), 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

  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: podcast@intimatecovenant.com
 
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

www.intimatecovenant.com
Intimate Covenant | Matt & Jenn Schmidt

In this episode, Matt and Jenn consider a question from a husband whose wife desires more "non-sexual touch." What's the difference between sexual and non-sexual touch? Is there a difference between sexual and non-sexual touch? Why might this wife be asking for this?

1. When considering conflict in your relationship, understand that there are always two layers: the first layer is the point of conflict, the deeper layer is the relationship dynamic that is driving the conflict. Each layer must be examined and addressed with humility and ownership.
2. The difference in sexual and non-sexual touch is not about where you touch, it is in the motivation, expectations and perceived pressure associated with the touching.
3. Ultimately, all touch should be leading to deeper intimacy and connection in each realm of our relationship — emotionally, mentally, spiritually and sexually.

 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! www.intimatecovenant.com/retreat

Announcing Covenant Club! Our online community with discussion forums (including husbands-only and wives-only sections), 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

 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: podcast@intimatecovenant.com
 
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

www.intimatecovenant.com
Intimate Covenant | Matt & Jenn Schmidt

In this episode, Matt & Jenn share a live Q&A session from our recent seminar in Tampa, FL. We covered questions like:

• Is masturbation OK?
• How do I handle when I get distracted or lose my momentum during sex?
• How do we compromise if my spouse doesn't want to do a specific sexual activity?
• Dealing with lack of sexual performance
• What if intercourse if painful?
• How do we share sexual history and sin?
• Are there good resources to help us talk to our kids about sex?

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! www.intimatecovenant.com/retreat

Announcing Covenant Club! Our online community with discussion forums (including husbands-only and wives-only sections), 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

• Our next live, interactive webinar is Thursday, May 19 @ 8:00PM (CST)
• "Marriage Advice - good, bad and ugly"
• Subscribe for access to the webinar and much more!

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: podcast@intimatecovenant.com
 
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

www.intimatecovenant.com
Intimate Covenant | Matt & Jenn Schmidt

In this episode, Matt & Jenn answer a handful of mailbag questions about sex and spirituality.

1. You can change the culture of fear and shame surrounding sex in your own corner of God’s Kingdom. Start by reshaping your understanding of your own sexuality through the lens of God’s word. Then, use your influence in your community to spread God’s word about holy sexuality and intimate marriage.
2. Consider the benefit of sexual fasting as detailed in 1 Corinthians 7:5 and how to use this spiritual tool to benefit your marriage 
3. Pornography and sexual abuse are two vastly ignored cancers among the church. Local congregations need training, resources and programs to help those recovering from pornography, abuse and betrayal.

For a double feature this week, catch our interview with Nikki and Ben on the Nikki Lee Podcast! We had a great time and some meaningful conversation! We think you'll enjoy it.

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! www.intimatecovenant.com/retreat

Announcing Covenant Club! Our online community with discussion forums (including husbands-only and wives-only sections), 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

  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: podcast@intimatecovenant.com
 
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

www.intimatecovenant.com
Intimate Covenant | Matt & Jenn Schmidt

In this episode, Matt & Jenn answer listener questions about some of the nuances of the sexual pursuer/responder dynamic.

1. In all marriages there is a sexual pursuer and a sexual responder. But these roles are not static. In various circumstances and seasons these roles may change in your relationship
2. One example is when a pusher is constantly rejected. It is common for this pursuer to stop pursuing and to withdraw emotionally and sexually.
3. Stereotypically, husbands are usually sexual pursuers, but there is a [not small] minority of wives who are the sexual pursuers in their marriages. There may be many reasons for this, but it does create some unique challenges.

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! www.intimatecovenant.com/retreat

Announcing Covenant Club! Our online community with discussion forums (including husbands-only and wives-only sections), 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

 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: podcast@intimatecovenant.com
 
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

www.intimatecovenant.com
Intimate Covenant | Matt & Jenn Schmidt

In this episode, Matt & Jenn discuss the power of sexual fantasy and how to harness this magic for more powerful sex and deeper connection.

1. Fantasy is a story you tell yourself to tap into emotional and sexual arousal. It’s how you choose to be present in your sexual relationship. It’s how you awaken your body to seek and to receive connection.
2. Effective fantasy is dwelling on whatever heightens your sexual awareness and then mindfully bringing your spouse into that. Simmering means intentionally dwelling on fantasy outside the bedroom to heighten your overall level of attraction and desire. Erotic fantasy is focusing your thoughts to keep your mind and body connected during sex which help maximize your connection and pleasure.
3. Fantasy can be either a bridge or a wall to sexual connection. It’s a wall when our sexual thoughts cause us to dissociate from our spouse. Fantasy is a bridge when our sexual thoughts promote deeper closeness in our relationship.

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! www.intimatecovenant.com/retreat

Announcing Covenant Club! Our online community with discussion forums (including husbands-only and wives-only sections), 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

  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: podcast@intimatecovenant.com
 
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

www.intimatecovenant.com
Intimate Covenant | Matt & Jenn Schmidt

In this episode, Matt and Jenn discuss factors and tips to improve the sensation, the strength, and the frequency of orgasm -- especially for wives.

1. Orgasm, while not the goal of sex, is an intensely pleasurable point of connection and may be elusive for some, especially wives.
2. Changing the sensation or strengthening the intensity of orgasm can add novelty and improve sexual pleasure for one or both spouses.
3. A number of factors may make orgasm difficult for women but relational strife and emotional stress are the most important negative influences.

Listen to our interview with Keelie Reason and her husband, Austin, on the Love, Hope, Adventure Podcast!  https://lovehopeadventure.com/building-sexual-connection We really enjoyed this conversation about building sexual connection in marriage. We also recommend checking out her blog and wealth of other resources on her website.

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

 To send your comments, questions and suggestions, 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, 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

www.intimatecovenant.com
Intimate Covenant | Matt & Jenn Schmidt

In this episode, Matt & Jenn help us understand the details of orgasm -- including gender physiology differences, health and relational benefits, spiritual parallels and the overall purpose for orgasm.

1. Orgasm, while not the goal of sex, is an intensely pleasurable point of connection with a multitude of relational, emotional, and physical health benefits.
2. There are a number of ways to change the sensation  or to strengthen the feelings of orgasm.
3. Ultimately, each person experiences orgasm differently due to their gender and to individual characteristics. Communication is required to maximize each other’s experience.  

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

 To send your comments, questions and suggestions, 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, 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

www.intimatecovenant.com
Intimate Covenant | Matt & Jenn Schmidt

In this episode, Matt & Jenn discuss the the "orgasm gap." What is the orgasm gap? Does it exist in your marriage? Is the orgasm gap a problem?

1. The “orgasm gap” refers to the fact that men tend to orgasm with sex at much higher frequency than women.
2. The significance of the orgasm gap in your marriage depends on many factors and may or may not be problem for your relationship.
3. If either of you is unsatisfied with the orgasm gap in your marriage, you need to have conversation about the significance of sexual pleasure and degree of connection in your relationship.

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 wives-only and husbands-only sections), 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

 To send your comments, questions and suggestions, 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, 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

www.intimatecovenant.com
Intimate Covenant | Matt & Jenn Schmidt

In this episode, Matt & Jenn share recorded excerpts from the live Q&A session at our recent Louisville, KY seminar (shout out to all of our new friends!!!) We covered topics such as:

• I have unwanted sexual thoughts and memories when I try to orgasm? What do I do with these fantasies?
• My bids for connection are unnoticed and ignored. How can I get my spouse to acknowledge my needs for emotional/sexual connection?
• My spouse and I have different Love Languages. Can we still learn to connect?
• How do I talk to my kids about sex without encouraging them to experiment?
• As a husband, how can I help my wife’s body image insecurity?
• How do you pray during intimacy?

To send your OWN 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: podcast@intimatecovenant.com

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! www.intimatecovenant.com/retreat

Announcing Covenant Club! Our online community with discussion forums (including husbands-only and wives-only sections), 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

www.intimatecovenant.com
Intimate Covenant | Matt & Jenn Schmidt

In this episode, Matt and Jenn discuss anal sex in marriage -- is it biblical? what are the benefits? risks? and motivations?

1. The bible does not specifically promote nor prohibit anal sex or anal play by a married couple.
2. Anal play, including prostate massage, may be enjoyable for some. While some do, most women do not enjoy anal intercourse which carries significant risk.
3. As with any sexual novelty, carefully consider your motivation and whether this activity will promote oneness.

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! www.intimatecovenant.com/retreat

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

 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: podcast@intimatecovenant.com
 
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

www.intimatecovenant.com
Intimate Covenant | Matt & Jenn Schmidt

In this episode, Matt & Jenn look at a few more myths that were encouraged by the Purity Culture Movement which still persist in many conservative religious circles. For example:

• “If I save myself for marriage, my sex life will be amazing.” 
• “If I marry a Christian, my marriage will be happy.”
• “Marriage is the solution to your sex problem (lust, porn) and your loneliness problem.”
• “Men’s minds are evil. Women’s bodies are evil.” 
• “Women are responsible for a man’s sexual feelings, thoughts and actions.”

1. Sexual purity means that your whole being is filled and directed by one thing: God. Your motives, desires, purpose, and intentions are not stained by any other influences. Sexual purity is not merely about what we are doing or not doing with our genitals!
2. It is dangerous theology when we come to believe and teach that sex is evil, men can’t control sexual urges, women’s bodies are inherently a stumbling block, and that virginity is a marker of a woman’s value.
3. Instead, let’s simply teach that God blessed us with sexuality and sexual desire to teach us that we are created for promise, for vulnerability, and for the pursuit and exchange of love that compels us toward self sacrifice.

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

 To send your comments, questions and suggestions, 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, 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

www.intimatecovenant.com
Intimate Covenant | Matt & Jenn Schmidt

In this episode, Matt & Jenn challenge your definition of "purity" and tackle some myths propagated by the Sexual Purity Movement.

1. Purity means that your whole being is filled and directed by one thing: God.  Sexual purity is not merely about what we are doing or not doing with our genitals!
2. It is dangerous theology when we come to believe and teach that sex is evil, men can’t control sexual urges, women’s bodies are inherently a stumbling block, and that virginity is idolized.
3. Instead, let’s simply teach that God blessed us with sexuality and sexual desire to teach us that we are created for promise, for vulnerability, and for the pursuit and exchange of love that compels us toward self-sacrifice.

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! www.intimatecovenant.com/retreat

Announcing Covenant Club! Our online community with discussion forums (including husbands-only and wives-only sections), 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

 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: podcast@intimatecovenant.com
 
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

www.intimatecovenant.com
Intimate Covenant | Matt & Jenn Schmidt

In this episode Matt & Jenn answer another handful of listener questions, including:

• How to handle daily excuses for not having sex.
• How to find a qualified godly therapist.
• Recommendations for couples bible study.
• Dealing with sensitive topics

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

 To send your comments, questions and suggestions, 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, 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

www.intimatecovenant.com
Intimate Covenant | Matt & Jenn Schmidt

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

 To send your comments, questions and suggestions, 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, 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

www.intimatecovenant.com
Intimate Covenant | Matt & Jenn Schmidt

In this episode, Matt & Jenn discuss the challenges of rebuilding your sexual relationship and the challenges of maintaining intimacy AFTER the baby comes.

1. If you are blessed by the birth of children, your sex life and relational intimacy will change, especially in the immediate postpartum timeframe.
2. You must each acknowledge the physical and emotional challenges of this time with grace, patience, sacrifice and compassion for your spouse.
3. 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

 To send your comments, questions and suggestions, 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

www.intimatecovenant.com
Intimate Covenant | Matt & Jenn Schmidt

In this episode Matt & Jenn speak to the challenges of maintaining a sexual relationship and all other realms of connection during pregnancy.

1. 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.
2. Pregnancy will change many things about a woman’s body and biochemistry that might make sex more challenging.
3. 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

www.intimatecovenant.com
Intimate Covenant | Matt & Jenn Schmidt

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?

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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

 To send your comments, questions and suggestions, 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

www.intimatecovenant.com
Intimate Covenant | Matt & Jenn Schmidt

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.

1. Overall, 1 Corinthians 7 teaches that I am obligated to meet the sexual needs of my spouse.
2. 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.
3. 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

 To send your comments, questions and suggestions, 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

www.intimatecovenant.com
Intimate Covenant | Matt & Jenn Schmidt

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?

1. 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.
2. 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. 
3. 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

 To send your comments, questions and suggestions, 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

www.intimatecovenant.com
Intimate Covenant | Matt & Jenn Schmidt

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. 

1. For real progress in your marriage, it’s important to critically evaluate the past and to set goals for the future.
2. A thorough evaluation of your marriage should include assessment of each realm of intimacy: spiritual, mental, emotional, and physical.
3. 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.
• For the rest of you, you can find the form in our store on the website: https://intimatecovenant.com/services/ 

Covenant Club! -- launching January 2022. Sign up during prelaunch and get the first three months for FREE!  www.intimatecovenant.com/members

 To send your comments, questions and suggestions, 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 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

www.intimatecovenant.com
Intimate Covenant | Matt & Jenn Schmidt

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

 To send your comments, questions and suggestions, 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

www.intimatecovenant.com
Intimate Covenant | Matt & Jenn Schmidt

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

 To send your comments, questions and suggestions, 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

www.intimatecovenant.com
Intimate Covenant | Matt & Jenn Schmidt

In this episode, Matt & Jenn challenge you to "embrace conflict" and offer some ground rules on "fighting fair" in your marriage.

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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

To send your comments, questions and suggestions, 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 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

www.intimatecovenant.com
Intimate Covenant | Matt & Jenn Schmidt

In this episode, Matt & Jenn offer advice for sexual pursuers and responders when giving and receiving sexy gifts. 

1. 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.
2. If you are a sexual pursuer, be sure that you are primarily considering what is best for encouraging sexual connection for your spouse.
3. Sexual responders should consider how to get in the Christmas spirit by giving their beloved a generous sexual gift.
4. 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

 To send your comments, questions and suggestions, 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 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

www.intimatecovenant.com
Intimate Covenant | Matt & Jenn Schmidt