Fasting is a spiritual practice that has been part of the Christian tradition for centuries. While some may view it as an outdated ritual, fasting remains a powerful tool for spiritual growth and intimacy with God. Whether new to fasting or looking to deepen your understanding, this post will provide biblical support, practical insights, and encouragement to embrace this transformative discipline.
What Is Fasting?
Fasting, in a biblical sense, is voluntarily abstaining from food or certain types of food for a spiritual purpose. It’s not simply skipping meals; it’s a focused time to seek God, aligning your heart with His will, and deepening your relationship with Him. While food fasting is the most common, some people choose to fast from other things, such as media or specific habits, to eliminate distractions and draw closer to God.
Biblical Foundations of Fasting
Fasting is woven throughout the Bible as an integral part of the believer’s walk with God. Here are a few key passages:
Jesus’ Example: Before beginning His public ministry, Jesus fasted for 40 days and nights in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11). This time of fasting prepared Him for the trials and temptations He would face, modeling dependence on God.
Guidance and Wisdom: In Acts 13:2-3, the early church fasted and prayed before sending out Paul and Barnabas as missionaries. Fasting was a way to seek God’s guidance for major decisions.
Repentance and Revival: In the Old Testament, fasting often accompanied repentance. For example, Jonah 3:5 records the people of Nineveh fasting and wearing sackcloth as they turned away from their sins.
Intimacy with God: Psalm 35:13 describes David humbling himself through fasting. It’s a means of expressing humility and dependence on God.
Corporate Fasting: There are instances in Scripture where groups of people were called to fast together. In Joel 2:15-16, God’s people were instructed to call a sacred assembly and fast as a community in repentance and to seek God’s intervention. Similarly, in Esther 4:16, Queen Esther asked the Jewish people to fast with her before she approached the king to save her people. Corporate fasting can unite believers in purpose and prayer, often during times of crisis or seeking God’s direction.
Why Should Christians Fast?
To Seek God’s Presence: Fasting creates space for focused prayer and worship, helping us tune out distractions and hear God more clearly.
To Align Our Hearts with God’s Will: As we fast, we surrender our desires and ask God to align our priorities with His purposes.
To Experience Breakthrough: Fasting is often paired with prayer to seek breakthrough in difficult circumstances, whether in health, relationships, or spiritual struggles (Isaiah 58:6).
To Strengthen Spiritual Discipline: Fasting helps us develop self-control and reliance on God rather than on worldly comforts.
Practical Tips for Fasting
Start Small: If you’ve never fasted before, begin with a partial fast, such as skipping one meal or abstaining from certain foods like sweets or coffee.
Prepare Your Heart: Spend time in prayer and Scripture before starting a fast. Ask God to reveal what He wants to teach you during this time.
Stay Hydrated: If you’re doing a food fast, drink plenty of water. Listen to your body, especially if you have health conditions.
Combine Fasting with Prayer: Fasting without prayer is merely dieting. Use the time you would spend eating to pray, meditate on Scripture, or worship.
Set a Purpose: Define your reason for fasting. Are you seeking clarity, interceding for someone, or drawing closer to God? Having a clear focus will keep you motivated.
End Gradually: Don’t overindulge immediately after a fast. Break your fast with something light and healthy.
What Fasting Is Not
A Way to Manipulate God: Fasting doesn’t twist God’s arm to give us what we want. Instead, it’s about changing us, not Him.
A Replacement for Obedience: Isaiah 58 warns against fasting while neglecting justice and righteousness. God desires a heart entirely devoted to Him, not empty rituals.
A Public Display: Jesus cautioned against fasting for the sake of appearances (Matthew 6:16-18). Fasting should be done with humility, not to impress others.
Encouragement for Those New to Fasting
If fasting feels intimidating, remember that it’s not about perfection but about seeking God with a sincere heart. Start where you are, and trust the Holy Spirit to guide you. As you fast, you’ll discover a deeper dependence on God and experience His presence in new ways.
Final Thoughts
Fasting is a gift, not a burden. It’s a way to quiet the noise of life and draw closer to God. Whether you’re fasting for guidance, breakthrough, or deeper intimacy with the Lord, know that God honors your sacrifice and meets you in the midst of your hunger.
If you’d like more resources on fasting or need prayer as you begin this journey, feel free to reach out through our church website or visit us during one of our services. Let’s seek God together with hearts fully surrendered to Him.
Dig Deeper
For more information about fasting, we recommend the following articles by Jentzen Franklin:
How to Fast - https://jentezenfranklin.org/how-to-fast
Fasting Basics - https://jentezenfranklin.org/fastingbasics
Why Fast - https://jentezenfranklin.org/why-fast
About New Faith Church:Â At New Faith Church, we are committed to connecting with people, helping them grow in grace while they discover their purpose and a place to serve Him and Others. We believe in the power of God's Word to transform lives and are dedicated to creating a welcoming environment where everyone can experience God's love. Visit our website, follow us on social media, and join us for our next service. For more information, visit our website, www.NewFaithCW.org.
About the Author: Tony Simpkins is the Strategic Operations & Growth Leader at New Faith Church. With over 30 years of business leadership experience, Tony applies his organizational expertise to ministry. He holds a BA in Business Administration from Mount Vernon Nazarene University and an Associate in Computer Science from Columbus State. Tony has served in various church leadership positions and is passionate about helping others grow in faith. He lives in Canal Winchester with his wife, Susie.
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