Sexual warfare

Is it against God and his word to Masturabate? Is it normal to struggle with sexual intamcy? My boyfriend and I have never had sex but we've done other sexual acts. We believe sex should be held for marriage and that it isn't just a bodily transaction but a spiritual change. Since we've started going to church together we've both felt guilty about those things and we haven't done anything like that sense. I've been struggling with wanting sexual acts but know that it is wrong. I pray about it everyday. Everytime I loose the battle with myself I break down. I don't know if this is something I need to talk to my boyfriend with or keep private. I don't know if he is struggling with it as well but I feel alone and weak.