1 Corinthians 7:5

“Defraud ye not one the other, except it be with consent for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency”

Context:Before diving into the specific verse, it’s essential to understand the context of the passage. The Apostle Paul is addressing various issues related to marriage, singleness, and the Christian’s conduct in relationships. In 1 Corinthians 7, he offers guidance to the Corinthian believers regarding marriage and sexual relations.

Verse:“Defraud ye not one the other, except it be with consent for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency” (1 Corinthians 7:5, KJV).

“Defraud ye not one the other”:The word “defraud” here means to deprive or withhold. Paul is instructing husbands and wives not to deprive each other of their conjugal rights within the marriage.

“Except it be with consent for a time”:Paul acknowledges that there may be times when a temporary abstinence from sexual intimacy may be appropriate. However, he emphasizes that this should only be done by mutual agreement between the spouses.

“That ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer”:The purpose of temporarily abstaining from sexual relations is to devote oneself to prayer and fasting. This indicates that the reason for the abstinence is to engage in spiritual disciplines rather than to punish or manipulate one’s spouse.

“And come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency”:Paul advises that after a period of agreed-upon abstinence, the couple should resume their sexual relationship. He warns against prolonged periods of abstinence, as it can lead to temptations and sexual immorality.

Key principles:a. Mutual consent: Husbands and wives should communicate and agree on matters of sexual intimacy, including temporary periods of abstinence.

b. Spiritual disciplines: There may be times when a couple decides to abstain from sexual relations to focus on prayer and fasting, but this should be temporary and with a shared understanding.

c. Guard against temptation: Prolonged abstinence can potentially lead to sexual temptation. Resuming sexual relations within marriage helps safeguard against such temptations.

Application:

• Communication:Discuss openly and honestly with your spouse about your needs, desires, and expectations regarding sexual intimacy in marriage.
• Mutual agreement:If you feel the need for a temporary period of abstinence for spiritual purposes, seek agreement and understanding from your spouse.
• Balance:Maintain a healthy balance between physical intimacy and spiritual disciplines, ensuring that both aspects are prioritized and nurtured within your marriage.

Remember, this passage should be understood within the broader context of biblical teachings on marriage and sexual purity. Seek guidance from your pastor or spiritual mentor for a more comprehensive understanding of biblical principles regarding marriage and relationships.