Have you heard of fasting and wondered how to do it? Do you know someone who speaks highly of how it has impacted them? Do you want to feel closer to and more empowered by God? Are you trying to discern how to make a decision?
Are you thinking about trying to fast but need help with how to do it?
Fasting involves abstaining from food or another pleasure (i.e., electronics) for a period of time in order to focus on prayer and spiritual growth.
This 5-step guide will help you learn what the Bible says about fasting and understand how to go about trying this spiritual discipline.
The Bible offers several examples of fasting and teaches about the benefits of this discipline.
In the Old Testament, fasting is often mentioned as a way to humble oneself before God, seek his guidance, and repent of sin.
We read in the book of Joel that the prophet calls all God’s people to fast and repent, saying "rend your heart and not your garments."
Later, in the book of Jonah, we see that the city of Nineveh fasts and repents in response to God’s message through the prophet to repent from their evil ways and turn back to God so they can be saved from destruction. Seeking the Lord with their open and contrite hearts led to God's forgiveness and salvation.
Fasting is also mentioned as a way to seek God's protection and guidance, as seen in the story of Esther, where the Jews fasted and prayed for deliverance from their enemies.
The Psalms display fasting as a way to seek God's presence and find strength in times of trouble.
In Psalm 35 and Psalm 69 we read that David was being mocked and pursued by enemies seeking his destruction. He was discouraged amid this ongoing turmoil. His response was to humble himself in fasting and praying, entrusting himself to our sovereign God, and seeking the Lord’s encouragement.
In the New Testament, we see the discipline of fasting used to prepare one’s heart to know and follow God’s will. Jesus fasted: after being baptized, Jesus went into the wilderness where he fasted for forty days and nights as preparation for his ministry to the world.
The early church leaders followed Jesus’ example when they fasted and prayed as they appointed and dedicated elders to the Lord.
Overall, through repenting and humbling oneself before the Lord, fasting is a way to draw closer to God, seek his will, and prepare one’s heart to follow him.
By following these steps and focusing on prayer and meditation, you can make the most of this spiritual discipline leading to a deeper sense of God's presence, clearer vision of his will, and more courage to follow him. We will cover:
The Bible teaches that fasting is not just about denying ourselves simply for the sake of denying ourselves; but rather, it should be done with a specific purpose in mind.
Determine what you are hoping to gain through your fast
Are you trying to make a big life decision? Is there something you know you need to do but need courage to do it? Are you dealing with difficulties that feel too intense to withstand?
Make that the focus of your prayers during this time.
The Bible tells of people fasting for different lengths of time, from one day to 40 days. Here are a few examples:
Consider what you feel capable of and what aligns with your purpose for fasting. It is also important to consult with a medical professional before undertaking a long fast, as extended periods of food deprivation can be risky.
Decide what to abstain from during your fast. The most common form of fasting involves abstaining from food, but the Bible also mentions other things that people have fasted from, such as drink (Isaiah 58:3), pleasure (Amos 8:10), and social activities (Nehemiah 1:4).
When one fasts from food, hunger pangs serve as physical reminders to pray.
Choose what you will abstain from during your fast based on your purpose and what will help you focus on your spiritual goals. Perhaps you are distracted by watching tv and fasting from that will open up a window of time in which you could pray and meditate on his Word.
Use your time for prayer and meditation in the same way the Bible teaches how to focus on the Lord (Psalm 119:15; Matthew 4:4). Fasting is not just about denying ourselves, but rather it is a time to draw closer to God and seek his will.
The Bible teaches that we should end our fasts with thanksgiving and celebration (Nehemiah 8:9-12).
Reflect on the Lord’s provision - for strengthening you to endure the fast and for making his presence and guidance clearer. Take time to thank God specifically for what he did during your fast.
Fasting is a powerful way to draw closer to God and seek his will for your life. By following the examples set forth in the Bible and focusing on prayer and meditation, you can make the most of this spiritual discipline.
Read: 5 Spiritual Benefits of Fasting
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