The opposite of intimacy is isolation. I used to believe that the opposite of intimacy was being private or just not “going deep” with others. I no longer believe that. The definition of the verb “isolate” is to put or keep (someone or something) in a place or situation that is separate from others. There is no separation in intimacy. There is no intimacy in isolation. Intimacy does not develop just by being in the presence of other people - intimacy is an active pursuit. When we do not pursue intimacy, we are isolated. We are separated from the rich spirit and heart connections that the Lord desires with us and for us.
Charles Stanley identifies three barriers to developing
intimacy: pride, rebellion, and hurriedness. “I’ve got it all together. I don’t
need anyone!” “I don’t care what God says, I don’t need that type of
relationship.” and “I’m too busy. I don’t have time to build intimate
relationships.” But the results of intimacy are: stability, security,
serenity, sensitivity, and spiritual understanding. We all need those things!
The abundant life that God
promised happens because He makes it so (John 10:10). Christ’s death on the
cross secured our salvation and abundant life once we get to heaven. But there’s
more! Because the Holy Spirit lives in us, we can live an abundant, God-led,
full, effective, joyful life right here on earth. And part of the way we fully
experience this abundance is in the midst of intimate relationship with God and
our fellow man. I encourage you to pray for and pursue intimate relationship both
with God and your fellow man. It’s life-giving.
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