Fasting is a time when people stop eating or doing some things to focus on prayer and God. Many Christians fast to become closer to God. But one question many married people ask is this: Can we have sex during fasting? Is it right or wrong?
The Bible does not give a direct yes or no answer. But there are verses in the Bible that can help us understand. In this article, we will explain what fasting is, what the Bible says about sex in marriage, and if married couples should have sex during fasting.
What is Fasting?
Fasting means stopping yourself from eating food or doing some things for a period of time. It is a way of focusing on God. Many people in the Bible fasted. Some fasted for one day, while others fasted for many days.
Here are some examples of fasting in the Bible:
- Moses fasted for 40 days when he was on the mountain with God (Exodus 34:28).
- Jesus fasted for 40 days before he started His ministry (Matthew 4:2).
- Daniel fasted when he wanted to hear from God (Daniel 10:3).
When people fast, they usually pray and seek God more. Some people also stop watching TV, using social media, or doing other activities that take their time away from God.
What the Bible Says About Sex in Marriage
The Bible teaches that sex is a good thing, but it is only for married people. God made sex as a way for a husband and wife to be close and to have children.
Here are some Bible verses about sex in marriage:
- Hebrews 13:4 – “Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure.”
- Genesis 2:24 – “A man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh.”
- 1 Corinthians 7:3-4 – “The husband should give to his wife her rights, and the wife should give to her husband his rights.”
This means that sex is important in marriage. It helps a husband and wife love each other more. But what happens when they are fasting? Can they continue to have sex?
Can Married Couples Have Sex During Fasting?
The Bible does not say “yes” or “no” directly. But 1 Corinthians 7:5 gives a clue. It says:
“Do not deprive each other except by mutual consent and for a time, so that you may devote yourselves to prayer. Then come together again so that Satan will not tempt you because of your lack of self-control.”
This verse means that a husband and wife can decide to stop having sex for some time if they want to pray. But it must be something both of them agree on. Also, after fasting, they should come together again so they do not get tempted to sin.
So, can couples have sex during fasting? It depends. If both the husband and wife agree to stop sex during fasting, that is fine. If they do not agree, then they should not force each other.
Fasting is a Time to Focus on God
Fasting is a special time to seek God. When people fast, they pray, read the Bible, and listen to God more. That is why some people choose to stay away from sex during fasting. They believe it helps them focus more on God.
Here are some reasons why people avoid sex during fasting:
- They want to use the time to pray more.
- They want to humble themselves before God.
- They want to avoid distractions.
But this does not mean that sex is bad. It only means that some people believe stopping sex for a short time helps them focus better on God.
What Should You Do?
If you are married and fasting, here are some things to consider:
- Talk to Your Spouse
- Do you both agree to stop sex during fasting? If yes, that is good.
- If one person does not agree, do not force them.
- Pray and Ask God for Wisdom
- God will guide you on what to do.
- Every couple is different. What works for one may not work for another.
- Understand That Fasting is Personal
- Some people stop eating. Some stop watching TV. Some stop sex.
- Do what will help you grow closer to God.
Conclusion
Sex in marriage is good. It is not a sin. But fasting is a special time to focus on God. The Bible does not say that couples must stop sex during fasting. It only says that if they want to stop, they must both agree.
If you and your spouse agree to stop sex during fasting, that is good. If you do not agree, that is also okay. The most important thing is to seek God and grow in your faith.
Remember:
- Fasting is about prayer and drawing close to God.
- Sex is a good and holy thing in marriage.
- Always talk to your spouse and agree on what to do.
- Pray and ask God to guide you.
May God bless your fasting and your marriage.
