Fasting As A Practice
Why do we fast?
Biblical fasting is a willing abstinence from food (sometimes even water) for a period of time for a spiritual purpose. Regular fasting should be part of a normal Christian lifestyle, as a practice that breaks the power of disordered desires and strengthens our Godward affections. In fasting, we respond to God’s invitation and we make room in our lives in order that we may:
Seek God in repentance
(Leviticus 23:27-29; Joel 2:12-13)
We become more aware of our sin and
the grief it causes to God and others.
Stand in solidarity with the poor
(Isaiah 58:5-7)
Fasting ties our hearts to the pain of the broken
and enables us to be kind to those in need.
Starve the flesh
(Matthew 6:16-18; Luke 4:1-4)
When we deny flesh and allow God to reorder our desires,
He empowers us with His strength.
Strengthen prayer
(Jeremiah 29:13)
Prayer with fasting allows integrity of body and speech.
We are more able to hear God’s voice.
Preparing For Your Fast
(adapted from Your Personal Guide to Fasting and Prayer by Bill Bright from www.cru.org)
While fasting is a spiritual discipline, it has to do with the physical aspect of our being. You need to prepare your body before a fast. It is advisable to ease into the rhythm, and build it over time. (Note: Do consult your physician, especially for people who are suffering weakness, any eating disorder, diabetes or other medical complications, or are taking medication(s), or are pregnant.)
For your fast, you may want to fast either (1) Breakfast and Lunch; or (2) Lunch. Some may choose to do (1) absolute fast (no solids or liquids, including water) while some may choose (2) water-only fast (no solids or other liquids). There is no fixed formula; the condition and motivation of our heart are key. Whichever you feel the Holy Spirit is leading you to undertake, do it in faith and trust.
Don’t try to have that “last big meal” before your fast. Cutting down on meals before your fast will signal your body that less food is acceptable. You might find it helpful to eat more raw/soft foods prior to fasting. Weaning off sugar and caffeine can ease the discomfort you might experience. Then, to break your fast, be sure to take in liquids and solids slowly.
Adjust your day’s schedule, for example your workout for the day, with this fast in mind. Times of prayer and reading God’s Word will be essential for your communion with God as you fast. You may also want to have a fixed time of prayer with a buddy, your care group or someone in your household.
As we fast, may the Holy Spirit transform us through biblical teaching, purposeful practices and healthy community.