Biblical Fasting: A Guide

Biblical Fasting: A Guide to Spiritual Growth and Renewal

Fasting has long been a spiritual discipline practiced by Christians to draw closer to God. Rooted in the Bible, fasting is more than abstaining from food; it’s about humbling ourselves before the Lord, seeking His will, and aligning our hearts with His purposes. This ancient practice, when approached with the right attitude, can lead to profound spiritual breakthroughs and a deeper intimacy with God.

What Is Biblical Fasting?

Biblical fasting is a voluntary act of abstaining from food, drink, or other comforts for a period of time to focus on prayer, repentance, and spiritual growth. Unlike dieting or self-improvement trends, fasting in the Christian faith is always centered on God. It’s an act of worship, humility, and dependence on Him.

Key Scripture:

• “But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, that your fasting may not be seen by others but by your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.” – Matthew 6:17-18

Jesus’ teaching in Matthew reminds us that fasting is a private act between us and God. It’s not for show or to earn favor with others but to seek God’s face with sincerity.

Biblical Examples of Fasting

Fasting appears throughout the Bible as a powerful tool for spiritual renewal and intercession. Here are a few notable examples:

1. Moses (Exodus 34:28): Moses fasted for 40 days and nights on Mount Sinai as he received the Ten Commandments. This fast was a time of divine encounter and revelation.
2. Esther (Esther 4:16): Queen Esther called for a three-day fast among the Jews before approaching King Xerxes to save her people. This fast was marked by intercession and courage.
3. Daniel (Daniel 10:3): Daniel’s partial fast, where he abstained from rich food, meat, and wine, focused on seeking understanding and mourning.
4. Jesus (Matthew 4:2): Before beginning His public ministry, Jesus fasted for 40 days and nights in the wilderness, preparing for His mission and overcoming temptation.

These examples demonstrate that fasting is often connected to significant moments of spiritual breakthrough, guidance, and deliverance.

The Purpose of Fasting

Fasting serves multiple purposes in a believer’s life:

1. To Seek God’s Guidance: When faced with major decisions or challenges, fasting helps us tune our hearts to God’s voice. Acts 13:2-3 shows how the early church fasted and prayed before sending out Paul and Barnabas.
2. To Draw Closer to God: Fasting creates space for prayer and intimacy with the Lord. James 4:8 says, “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.”
3. To Break Spiritual Strongholds: In Matthew 17:21, Jesus explains that some spiritual battles require both prayer and fasting to overcome.
4. To Express Repentance: Fasting is a way to humble ourselves before God, confess sin, and seek forgiveness. Joel 2:12 says, “Even now,” declares the Lord, “return to Me with all your heart, with fasting, weeping, and mourning.”

Practical Steps for Biblical Fasting

If you’re considering a fast, here are some practical steps to help you prepare and stay focused:

1. Start Small: If you’re new to fasting, begin with a one-meal fast or a partial fast, such as abstaining from sweets or media.
2. Set a Purpose: Determine your spiritual goal for the fast. Are you seeking guidance, interceding for others, or growing closer to God?
3. Prepare Spiritually and Physically: Spend time in prayer and the Word before starting your fast. If fasting from food, consult a doctor if you have health concerns.
4. Replace with Prayer: Use the time you’d normally spend eating or engaging in other activities to pray, meditate, and worship.
5. Stay Hydrated: If you’re abstaining from food, drink plenty of water unless you’re on an absolute fast (like Moses or Jesus) for a very short period.
6. End Gradually: Break your fast slowly with small, simple meals to avoid physical discomfort.

Famous Quotes on Fasting

• “Fasting is the soul’s hunger for God.” – John Piper
• “More than any other discipline, fasting reveals the things that control us.” – Richard Foster
• “When we give up physical food, we feast on spiritual food.” – Unknown

Recommended Reading

To deepen your understanding of fasting, consider these books:

1. “A Hunger for God” by John Piper: This book explores fasting as a way to deepen your desire for God.
2. “Celebration of Discipline” by Richard Foster: A classic that examines spiritual disciplines, including fasting.
3. “The Fasting Edge” by Jentezen Franklin: A practical guide to experiencing the power of fasting in your life.

Conclusion

Biblical fasting is a powerful discipline that aligns our hearts with God, breaks strongholds, and opens doors for spiritual transformation. As you embark on this journey, remember to keep your focus on Him and rely on His strength. Whether it’s a day-long fast or an extended period, God honors the sacrifices made with a sincere heart.

As Isaiah 58:6 reminds us: “Is not this the fast that I choose: to loose the bonds of wickedness, to undo the straps of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free, and to break every yoke?” Let your fasting lead to spiritual freedom and greater intimacy with the Lord.