“The wife does not have authority over her own body but the husband does. In the same way, the husband does not have authority over his own body but the wife does.” – 1 Corinthians 7:4
Understanding Fasting and Commitment
As we engage in fasting, it’s essential for us to understand the commitment we make not just spiritually but also relationally. Fasting often serves a purpose of deepening our relationship with God through prayer and self-control. However, it’s also a time to respect the commitments we have to our spouses. While fasting, we remember that our bodies belong to one another. It calls us to have open conversations about how we want to approach fasting together, ensuring that both spiritual needs and physical needs are balanced. As partners, we should support each other and understand the sanctity of our marital relationships even during fasting periods.
1 Corinthians 7:5
“Do not deprive each other except perhaps 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.” – 1 Corinthians 7:5
Matthew 6:16
“When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full.” – Matthew 6:16
Isaiah 58:3
“Why have we fasted, and you see it not? Why have we humbled ourselves, and you take no knowledge of it? Behold, in the day of your fast you seek your own pleasure, and oppress all your workers.” – Isaiah 58:3
Luke 18:12
“I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I get.” – Luke 18:12
Acts 13:3
“So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off.” – Acts 13:3
Intimacy During Fasting
Fasting can sometimes create confusion within a marriage, especially regarding intimacy. We must remember that intimacy is an essential part of our relationships, even while we are spiritually focused. In times of fasting, we should communicate with our spouse about our needs and intentions. Just because we are fasting does not mean we should ignore our emotional and physical connections. Intimacy can serve as an encouragement and support system for both partners during a spiritually demanding time. It is vital for us to come together and discuss our desires and boundaries clearly, ensuring a united front in both our spiritual and physical commitments.
1 Corinthians 7:3
“The husband should fulfill his marital duty to his wife, and likewise the wife to her husband.” – 1 Corinthians 7:3
Songs of Solomon 7:10
“I belong to my beloved, and his desire is for me.” – Songs of Solomon 7:10
Genesis 2:24
“That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh.” – Genesis 2:24
1 Thessalonians 4:3
“It is God’s will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality.” – 1 Thessalonians 4:3
1 Peter 3:7
“Husbands, in the same way be considerate as you live with your wives, and treat them with respect as the weaker partner and as heirs with you of the gracious gift of life, so that nothing will hinder your prayers.” – 1 Peter 3:7
Prayer and Fasting Together
When we choose to fast, it’s an opportunity for us to grow closer to God and one another. We pray, seeking God’s guidance, and fasting helps clarify our intentions. During our fasting, it is a great time to corporately pray with our spouse, enhancing our spiritual connection. Together, we can seek divine understanding and strength. Praying as a couple during fasting not only strengthens our relationship with God but also solidifies our bond with each other. We engage in fasting and prayer not just individually but collectively, fostering unity and deepening our connection both spiritually and relationally.
Matthew 18:20
“For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” – Matthew 18:20
Philippians 4:6
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” – Philippians 4:6
James 5:16
“Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” – James 5:16
Acts 14:23
“Paul and Barnabas appointed elders for them in each church and, with prayer and fasting, committed them to the Lord, in whom they had put their trust.” – Acts 14:23
Colossians 4:2
“Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.” – Colossians 4:2
Balancing Spiritual and Physical Needs
In our decision to fast, we must strive to balance both our spiritual and physical needs. It’s easy to become overly focused on the spiritual aspect and neglect the physical realities within our marriages. That’s why it’s essential for us to maintain a balance, where praying and seeking God doesn’t limit our physical intimacy with our spouse. We can focus on our spiritual growth while also meeting each other’s needs in a Godly manner. We remember that both our spiritual and physical needs are valid and deserve attention and care.
Matthew 6:33
“But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” – Matthew 6:33
Proverbs 31:10
“A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies.” – Proverbs 31:10
Romans 12:1
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.” – Romans 12:1
1 Corinthians 10:31
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” – 1 Corinthians 10:31
Ephesians 5:25
“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” – Ephesians 5:25
Respecting Each Other’s Boundaries
When we choose to fast, it’s crucial for us to respect each other’s boundaries. Every individual approaches fasting differently, and we need to communicate openly about our limitations and expectations. Fasting should not become a pressure point in our relationship, but rather a time for growth and unity. Understanding and respecting our partner’s boundaries ensures that we aren’t inadvertently causing discomfort. This encourages us to create an environment of trust, where both partners feel valued and understood during the fast.
Proverbs 20:19
“A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid anyone who talks too much.” – Proverbs 20:19
Proverbs 4:23
“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” – Proverbs 4:23
Philippians 2:4
“Not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” – Philippians 2:4
Galatians 5:13
“You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.” – Galatians 5:13
Mark 10:9
“Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.” – Mark 10:9
Spiritual Growth Through Fasting
Fasting leads to spiritual growth, and this is a process we can embrace together as couples. When we fast, it allows us to refocus our priorities and grows us closer to God and to each other. This time shouldn’t feel like a burden but a chance to strengthen our faith and relationships. Through prayer, communication, and joint decisions on how to handle fasting, we can achieve greater spiritual growth. Let’s take this time to truly reflect on our lives, aligning our hearts and thoughts with God’s will while encouraging each other along the way.
2 Chronicles 7:14
“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” – 2 Chronicles 7:14
Matthew 5:6
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.” – Matthew 5:6
Psalms 35:13
“But when they were ill, I put on sackcloth and humbled myself with fasting.” – Psalms 35:13
Isaiah 58:6
“Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke?” – Isaiah 58:6
Matthew 4:4
“Jesus answered, ‘It is written: Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” – Matthew 4:4
Final Thoughts
Our journey with fasting provides an incredible opportunity to bond both spiritually and physically with our partners. We learned that while fasting can draw us closer to God, it does not have to separate us from our physical intimacy. As we study the verses, we see the need for communication and respect for one another’s boundaries during this time. It is crucial for us to strike a balance between our spiritual and physical needs, ensuring our relationships thrive while we grow in faith. Let us remember to support one another, pray together, and cherish our commitments, as our love reflects God’s intentions.
We encourage you to continue exploring God’s word and the teachings surrounding intimacy and relationships. There is much to learn about maintaining a strong bond with our partners during all seasons of life, including times of fasting. For more insights, check out articles on fornication and adultery.