Greet one another with a holy kiss. (Romans 16:16)

Of the five senses, touch is the one we need most in our relationships. Studies have shown that lack of physical touch hinders development in newborn and that plenty of affection activity stabilizes the physical development of infants. Caring touch not only nurtures security in a child, it communicates worth and value to adults.

Jesus often used physical touch as a way to demonstrate His care and concern for people. For e.g. He accompanied miraculous healing with physical touch. Christ could have just spoken a word, but He touched a blind man’s eyes, a leper’s skin, and a young girl’s hand.

As we learn to love our spouse in the way that they long to be loved, we discover that as we initiate affection their fears decrease. Each time we reach over and hold their hand or rub their hair, they are reassured of our love to them. They don’t have to wonder, “Does my spouse still love me?” Our initiative to give our spouse in these tender ways deepens their trust in our relationship.

One of the practical ways we can practice the art of affection is through our good-byes and greetings. As we leave one another each morning, we can make sure to start the day with a hug. We can give one another a hug and include a group hug with the kids. Greeting one another with a kiss at the end of a long day can also pay big benefits. It takes concerted effort to stop what we’re doing or shake off the kid clinging to our leg. But with each, we reestablish our commitment to one another.

The message in these actions is clear: “Our relationship is important, and these simple gestures remind us to cherish one another.”

Q. At what times during the day could we begin making it a point to share physical affection with our spouse? What would stop us from doing that?

May this devotion help us to keep our love strong in our marriage, and our emotional love tanks full always.