In the Bible we see that Fasting is intentionally abstaining from food for spiritual purposes; it is humbling your soul (Psalm 35:13, Matthew 23:12). Fasting brings you into a deeper, more intimate and powerful relationship with the Lord. Fasting is an act of humility before God to seek His divine intervention in the events of our physical world, it brings revelation by the Holy Spirit of our true spiritual condition, leading to brokenness, repentance, and change, and allows the Holy Spirit to work in a powerful way.
Fasting transforms prayer into a richer, more personal experience and draws you closer to God (James 4:8)
There is also value in fasting from things such as social media, television, music, etc. A way you can do this is by determining your distractions, detriments, or delights and limit or eliminate them for a specified amount of time. Fill the empty spaces/hunger pains with things that build you up spiritually (read scripture, pray, meditate, stillness, or engage in soul & mind nourishing content). No matter what kind of fast you choose if it doesn’t involve prayer or intentional communion with God is a diet.
SCRIPTURES
Learn more about Fasting in Scripture
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Jesus fasting (Matthew 4:1-4)
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Moses fasting (Exodus 34:28)
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Esther and the Jews fasting (Esther 4)
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Jesus Questioned About Fasting (Mark 2:18-22)
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Jesus teaching on Fasting (Matthew 6:16-18)
PRACTICES
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Reflect: What has been your personal experience with fasting? What could a fast look like for you this month?
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Pray: Ask God to give you wisdom and clarity on what He could be inviting you to abstain from to more intentionally be present with Him. Think about the things that delight or distract you.
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Fast: If you have a specific type of fast you want to try, do it. If you are still uncertain, try giving up something you really enjoy for a few days and use that space to connect with God.
RESOURCES
Devotional Plans:
Podcast:
Books:
