Fasting

“But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen.”

MATTHEW 6:17-18 (NIV)

●  LOVE GOD

What if going without made more room for God?

Fasting has been a regular practice of God’s people for thousands of years. In the Old Testament, fasting would occur as an act of repentance or of mourning over wickedness. In the New Testament, we see fasting appear as a means of discerning God’s will, or as worship. We even see in the life of Jesus that he fasted. Within the biblical narrative, fasting is almost always centered around going without food to focus on God.

There are many reasons we might choose to fast. We may need strength to overcome a sin or temptation, or we may fast on behalf of another. We may even choose to fast simply to express the depth of our devotion to God.

THE PRACTICE

Start slowly

Whatever our reasoning behind fasting, we want to ensure we practice this form of prayer in a life-giving and healthy way. Fasting should not be seen as a fast track to weight loss or a means to get God to do what I want. Fasting is a form of prayer that centers around our body. Fasting may also need to be adjusted to fit a current season and stage of life. Those who are pregnant, sick, or have existing medical conditions should avoid fasting or consult a doctor before choosing to fast. Those who are unable to fast from food may consider giving up something else for a time, such as social media, specific foods or drinks, or other things.

Fasting can reorient our priorities, teach us to trust in God for our sustaining, and create space in our souls for God’s Spirit to work and move in us in powerful ways. To begin practicing fasting, start slowly. Begin by skipping a meal and using that time to pray and seek God.

RESOURCES

Companions for the journey

A Hunger for God
Book by John Piper. Desiring God through fasting and prayer.

Celebration of Discipline
Book by Richard Foster. Includes a chapter on the discipline of fasting.