What is fasting?
In fasting, the believer voluntarily abstains in some significant way from food and/or drink for spiritual purposes. One may also abstain from something else like technology, media, etc., but the primary method we see in Scripture is mainly from food (Matt 6:16-18, 9:15, Joel 2:12, Ezra 8:23, Acts 9:9, 13:2, 14:23).
Fasting confirms our complete dependence on God by finding in Him a source of sustenance beyond food. Through the discipline of fasting, we learn that God’s Word is a life substance, that it is not simply bread alone that gives life, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God (Matt 4:4). We also learn that we too have food to eat that this world knows nothing about (John 4:32, 34).
Fasting with Jesus, then, is feasting; feasting on Him and on doing His will. When we fast, we learn how to suffer well, with joy, as we feast, because in life we all will suffer, and fasting teaches us about the peace, dependence and presence of Jesus that is so sweet and satisfying more than anything this world has to offer (Ps 34:8).
When we regularly practice fasting as a spiritual discipline, we will have a clear and constant awareness of the resources and strength available in God. This helps the believer endure trials of various kinds, knowing that we are not alone, and that our Good Father hears every prayer and cares for our every need.
Fasting confirms our complete dependence on God by finding in Him a source of sustenance beyond food. Through the discipline of fasting, we learn that God’s Word is a life substance, that it is not simply bread alone that gives life, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God (Matt 4:4). We also learn that we too have food to eat that this world knows nothing about (John 4:32, 34).
Fasting with Jesus, then, is feasting; feasting on Him and on doing His will. When we fast, we learn how to suffer well, with joy, as we feast, because in life we all will suffer, and fasting teaches us about the peace, dependence and presence of Jesus that is so sweet and satisfying more than anything this world has to offer (Ps 34:8).
When we regularly practice fasting as a spiritual discipline, we will have a clear and constant awareness of the resources and strength available in God. This helps the believer endure trials of various kinds, knowing that we are not alone, and that our Good Father hears every prayer and cares for our every need.
Where Do We see fasting in scripture?
In Scripture people would fast to strengthen their prayers (Ezra 8:23, Nehemiah 1:4, Acts 13:3), when seeking God’s guidance and His will (Judges 20:26, Acts 14:23), to express grief (Judges 20:26, 1 Sam 20:34, 31:13, 2 Sam 1:11-12, to seek deliverance or protection (2 Chronicles 20:3-4, Ezra 8:21-23, Esther 4:16, Ps 109), to express repentance and a return to God (1 Sam 7:6, Joel 2:12, Jonah 3:5-8), to overcome temptation and dedication wholly to God (Matt 4:1-11), and to express love and worship to God (Luke 2:37, John 6:51, Philippians 3:19-20).
How Do I fast?
1. Start small. Pick something to fast from.
If fasting is new for you, begin by skipping one meal and using that time to pray and seek God. For regular fasting, simply fast from all food for a specific amount of time. Fasting from sugar, meat, caffeine, social media, or TV, may be a good way to begin as well.
2. Choose a purpose.
Fast with intentionality. Ask: “God, is there something specific you desire me to seek you in while I am fasting?” When we fast, we pray.
3. Replace eating with seeking God.
When hunger comes, let it remind you to pray, read Scripture, worship, journal, or sit quietly with the Lord. Jesus says, “I am the bread of life.” John 6:35.
4. Fast humbly and privately.
Jesus teaches us not to fast for attention or appearance, but unto God, Matthew 6:16-18.
5. Consider a rhythm.
You may fast one meal, from sunrise to sunset, for 24 hours, or regularly as part of your spiritual rhythms.
6. Use wisdom.
If you have a certain medical condition, gather wisdom in community on things you can fast from.
If fasting is new for you, begin by skipping one meal and using that time to pray and seek God. For regular fasting, simply fast from all food for a specific amount of time. Fasting from sugar, meat, caffeine, social media, or TV, may be a good way to begin as well.
2. Choose a purpose.
Fast with intentionality. Ask: “God, is there something specific you desire me to seek you in while I am fasting?” When we fast, we pray.
3. Replace eating with seeking God.
When hunger comes, let it remind you to pray, read Scripture, worship, journal, or sit quietly with the Lord. Jesus says, “I am the bread of life.” John 6:35.
4. Fast humbly and privately.
Jesus teaches us not to fast for attention or appearance, but unto God, Matthew 6:16-18.
5. Consider a rhythm.
You may fast one meal, from sunrise to sunset, for 24 hours, or regularly as part of your spiritual rhythms.
6. Use wisdom.
If you have a certain medical condition, gather wisdom in community on things you can fast from.
What Can I fast for?
Guidance, wisdom, direction, God’s will, repentance over sin, grief or sorrow, protection or deliverance, to overcome temptation, to express worship and gratitude and devotion to God.
Will you prayerfully consider fasting as the Holy Spirit leads?
Will you prayerfully consider fasting as the Holy Spirit leads?
Recommended Books
The Spirit of the Disciplines — Dallas Willard
The Common Rule — Justin Earley
Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life — Donald Whitney
The Common Rule — Justin Earley
Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life — Donald Whitney