Foreword
By Drs. Mike and DeeDee Freeman
Love—real love—is more than just a feeling or a fairytale. It’s a decision, a daily pursuit, and a divine reflection. After being married for 42 years ourselves, we’ve come to learn that love God’s way is intentional, passionate, sacrificial, and anchored in truth.
The Intimacy of Love is not just another book on marriage. It’s a heart-to-heart conversation wrapped in wisdom, transparency, and the Word. Pastor Candy opens the door wide and lets us in—not into a perfect story, but into a powerful one. One built on covenant, strengthened by challenges, and centered on Christ.
We’ve had the privilege of knowing Pastors Stephen and Candy LaFlora, and their love is the real deal. It’s steady. It’s joyful. And it speaks volumes even when they say nothing at all. Their marriage is a living testimony that intimacy—spiritual, emotional, and physical—is not only possible in marriage but necessary.
Whether you’re dating, engaged, newly married, or decades in like us, this book is a gift. It will stretch you, stir you, and spark something fresh in your relationship. Pastor Candy writes like a trusted friend and teaches like a seasoned leader. Every chapter is soaked in grace, full of God, and grounded in truth.
So lean in. Let the LaFloras’ story inspire your own. And let God breathe new life into your love.
Get ready—this book is about to pull you closer to your spouse and even closer to the One who authored love in the first place.
With all our love,
Mike & DeeDee Freeman
Endorsement
The Intimacy of Love by our dear friend Candy LaFlora is a refreshing, Spirit-filled reminder of God’s original and beautiful design for intimacy within marriage.
Marriage was never meant to be merely endured; it was meant to reflect the love Christ has for His Church—faithful, passionate, selfless, and eternal. This book doesn’t shy away from the real challenges that couples face. Candy addresses each obstacle with biblical truth and practical hope.
As you read through chapters like Reigniting the Spark and Continue to Invest in Your Marriage, you’ll be reminded that love is more than a moment—it is a daily decision, a divine commitment, and a gift meant to grow deeper with time.
Whether you’re newly married, walking through a season of struggle, or simply desiring to deepen the connection with your spouse, The Intimacy of Love is for you. May it bless you, challenge you, and draw you closer—not just to one another, but to the God who created intimacy in the first place.
With love and great expectation,
Mark and Trina Hankins
