“The Power of Presence: Why In-Person Connection Matters More Than Ever”
Welcome to Dear Emmanuela….
Where wisdom meets grace for your journey to lasting love.
In a world of DMs, dating apps, and text threads, it’s never been easier to connect—and yet, so many of us feel more disconnected than ever.
As a Christian dating and marriage coach, I see it all the time: singles frustrated by surface-level interactions and married couples living more like roommates than soulmates. We’re craving something deeper. And the truth is, no amount of emojis or perfectly worded messages can replace what happens when two people share space, eye contact, and heart-level presence.
God made us for connection. Real, face-to-face, shoulder-to-shoulder, heart-to-heart connection.
“Let us not give up meeting together... but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” —Hebrews 10:25
Why In-Person Connection Is So Powerful
There’s something sacred about presence. Jesus didn’t just send messages from heaven—He came. He walked, wept, ate, laughed, and lived among us. And that tells us something about love: it’s meant to be embodied.
Whether you’re a single person navigating the dating world or a married couple trying to reignite your spark, in-person connection is often the missing piece.
When you're physically present:
You pick up on non-verbal cues—tone, body language, energy.
You foster vulnerability and trust.
You share unfiltered moments (even the awkward ones) that deepen intimacy.
You model Christlike love by being fully present—just like He is with us.
For Singles: Make Space for Real Connection
Here are a few ways singles can move beyond screens and into authentic relationships:
1. Be Where People Are
Attend church events, young adult ministries, small groups, or local meetups. Say yes to gatherings where God’s people come together. Trust that He works in community.
2. Initiate with Intention
Don’t wait for someone else to make the first move. Invite someone for coffee, join a Bible study, or offer to pray with someone. Intentionality builds bridges.
3. Ditch the Phone on Dates
When you're on a date, put the phone away. Look them in the eye. Listen more than you speak. Be curious. Be kind. Be present.
4. Embrace the Awkward
Yes, in-person conversations can feel clunky. But love isn’t built on perfection—it’s built on persistence, honesty, and grace.
For Married Couples: Reignite the Power of Presence
Busyness, screens, and routine can dull even the strongest marriages. But with God’s help, you can rekindle connection by getting intentional.
1. Schedule “Unplugged” Time Together
Set aside a weekly “no phones” evening. Go for a walk, cook dinner together, or just talk on the porch. Presence speaks louder than any words.
2. Try Something New Together
Shared experiences spark bonding. Sign up for a dance class, go hiking, serve at a ministry together—anything that gets you out of the routine.
3. Pray Face-to-Face
Don’t just pray for your spouse—pray with them. Holding hands. Looking into each other’s eyes. It’s powerful. It’s vulnerable. And it invites God in.
4. Speak Life Daily
Look them in the eye and say, “I’m proud of you.” “I see you.” “I’m with you.” In-person words of affirmation can soften hearts and strengthen connection.
Final Thoughts: Be Present Like Jesus
Presence is a gift. And like any gift, it requires intentionality, vulnerability, and love. Whether you're waiting for love, fighting for it, or working to strengthen it—never underestimate the power of simply showing up.
Let’s be people who don’t hide behind screens, who risk the awkward, who lean in rather than pull away. Let’s love like Jesus—fully present, unconditionally invested, and deeply real.
Because when we show up in person, we don’t just build relationships—we reflect the heart of God.
Contact me at https://www.wivesintraining.com/couples-consultation
With faith in God for your love story,
Emmanuela Rodenberg
Author of How to Attract a Godly Husband
Minister of the Gospel
Certified Christian Marriage Coach
Christian Dating & Relationship Coach
Founder & CEO, Wives in Training International
P.S. Hit reply and tell me — what’s one thing you're praying for in your marriage? I’d love to pray with you! 🙏 or what’s your biggest challenge with dating
If you’ve been wanting an easy, natural way to cover grays and feel refreshed, I highly recommend the Instant Dye Shampoo from Polar Haircare. It covers grays in just 10 minutes, has no ammonia, and leaves your hair looking radiant—like the queen you are. 👑
💌 Got a Question for Emmanuela?
Have a question about love, dating, or marriage that’s been on your heart?
You’re not alone—and you don’t have to walk through it alone either. That’s what Dear Emmanuela is here for: to offer wisdom, truth, and grace for your real-life relationship questions.
Ask anonymously or leave your name—it’s completely up to you. Your question may be featured (anonymously) in a future blog post to help other women who may be going through the same thing.
Fill out the form below or email me directly at E@DearEmmanuela.com
