On the Issue Of Marriage, Fasting And Sex: Should You Do It While You're Fasting?

I recently read a story online about a newly-wedded lady who, in her quest to have a child embarked on a fasting journey that was set to last for weeks, and ironically refused to have sex with her husband. Well, as you can guess, her husband was far from happy to be denied access to his newly-wedded bride, and she in return felt he was being downright unreasonable. 

The story sparked a debate amongst many, with some standing firmly in support of the wife for seeking the face of the Lord, and others laughing at the irony of it all - seeking God for a child, yet abstaining from sex. One question stood out from this story: Should you have sex while you are fasting? (Referring to married couples of course). 

Well, one thing that is clear is that there is no commandment in the bible that says couples cannot have sex during a fast, nor is there any that encourages them to engage in sex. The Bible speaks more about an understanding between the two parties during the fasting period. I Corinthians 7:5 is the verse that speaks explicitly on this issue:

Do not deprive one another, except perhaps by agreement for a limited time, that you may devote yourselves to prayer; but then come together again, so that Satan may not tempt you because of your lack of self-control.

Earlier verses in this chapter state that couples should not deprive each other of sexual pleasure and in verse 5 here it says, by agreement for a limited time!

This means a couple can decide to dedicate themselves to prayer, say for three days, and both agree to abstain from sex for that period. However, going for lengthy periods such as weeks and months without sex is detrimental to the relationship. 

Sex is one of the factors that keep a relationship together; no matter how Christian you are, if you fail to excite your spouse sexually, your relationship might be at risk of falling apart. So, to answer the question if married couples can do it while fasting, the answer depends on what you and your partner agree on. If you both agree to consecrate yourselves for a short period, so be it.  

If there is no agreement, there is no indication in the bible that says you cannot have sex after breaking your fast for the day. Afterall, sex between married couples is not a sin. 

Do share your thoughts XOXO