12 | Sex, Trauma & the Marriage Bed: Finding Healing Through God’s Design

In this deeply personal and powerful episode of Hope in the Fire, we’re tackling a topic many women silently struggle with: sex in marriage after experiencing sexual abuse. Whether you’ve faced childhood abuse, trauma in adulthood, or carry shame from a promiscuous past, know this — you are not alone, and you are not beyond healing. Join me as I share my own story of restoration, how trauma affected my view of intimacy, and what God’s Word says about the beauty and purpose of sexual intimacy within marriage. We’ll explore the spiritual implications of sex, how past wounds can show up in marriage, and most importantly, how God can redeem every part of your story — even the marriage bed.   📝 In this episode, you’ll hear: Why sex outside of marriage creates spiritual and emotional baggage How childhood and adult trauma can distort God’s design for intimacy Biblical truths that restore hope and bring clarity What 1 Corinthians 7:5 and Hebrews 13:4 teach us about intimacy and protection in marriage Two journaling prompts to help you reflect, heal, and reconnect with God’s heart for intimacy ✍️ Journal Prompts: Ask God to reveal any hidden feelings you may have about sex and intimacy. Write down what you long for in your future or current marriage. Write a letter to your younger self — the version of you that was wounded. Speak truth, grace, and hope over her story.   📞 Ready for 1:1 support? If this episode stirred something in your heart and you’re ready to begin your healing journey, I’d love to walk with you. ➡️ Email me today to schedule a coaching call. [email protected]   🔗 Resources & Links: Scripture referenced: 1 Corinthians 7:5, Hebrews 13:4, Genesis 2:24   >> Visit https://lesliechermak.com/work-with-leslie/ for more support. >> Take this FREE quiz: Reclaiming Your Life: A Biblical Wellness Quiz for Childhood Trauma Survivors >> Take a deeper dive discovering your purpose: Ignite Your Purpose and learn how to think through God's Word in this self paced online course. >> I’ll meet you in your inbox on Fridays!  https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/newsletter   💬 Share this episode with a friend who needs to know: Your past doesn’t define your future. God restores — even this.