Have you ever wondered what biblical fasting is all about?

Fasting is a biblical practice that involves abstaining from food or other activities for a specific, intentional period of time, in order to seek God, focus our attention and affections on him and experience spiritual breakthroughs.

Simply, it is going without physically to take hold of spiritually.

Through fasting, we deny ourselves hungers and physical wants to focus on feeding our souls. It's a way to humble ourselves before God and align our hearts with His will. It deepens our dependence on Him.

This can look a number of ways. Whether it is completely or partially going without food for a number of days. Intentionally going without food during specific times of the day. Consult a doctor before undertaking a fast for more than a few days, or if you have pre-existing medical conditions. If you are new to fasting or perhaps have factors that fasting food would be unwise, or if you wish to refocus certain areas of your life that are out of balance, consider a soul fast. For example, you might choose to stop using social media or watching television for the duration of the fast and then carefully bring that element back into your life in healthy doses at the conclusion of the fast.

How and what you fast is less important than your focus and dependance on God during your fast.

The purpose of biblical fasting is to draw us deeper in to the heart of God.

It is not a hunger strike that we demand God act on our terms or else, nor is it a health diet.

It hits the reset button of our soul and renews us from the inside out.

When we fast, we create space in our lives for God to move and work in ways we cannot imagine. It's a powerful act of faith that invites God's transformative power into our lives.

Biblical fasting is a sacred practice that allows us to seek God's presence, experience His power, and grow in our faith. Will you join us on this journey?

HOW TO FAST

How to Begin

Start with a clear goal. Consider why you are fasting. Do you need direction, healing, restoration of marriage or family issues? Are you facing financial difficulties? Through times of fasting, God reveals things about Himself, and things about you. In this place our faith is built up and positions us to His breakthrough power, direction and strength in our lives. Ask the Holy Spirit for guidance, and make it a habit to pray daily and read the Bible.

Preparing Spiritually

In preparation, take time to surrender to God and ask the Holy Spirit for guidance. Ask Him to reveal areas of your life that need His grace to flow into. Are there things you need to confess to God, people you need to forgive or ask for forgiveness from?

Deciding What to Fast

The type of fasting you choose is up to you. You could go on a full fast in which you only drink liquids, or you may desire to fast like Daniel, who abstained from sweets and meats, and the only liquid he drank was water. Remember to replace that time with prayer and Bible study.

Deciding How Long

You may fast as long as you like. Most can easily fast from one to three days, but you may feel the grace to go longer, even as much as 21 to 40 days. Use wisdom and pray for guidance. Consult a doctor before undertaking a fast for more than a few days, or if you have pre-existing medical conditions. Beginners are advised to start slow, with a short day or two fast.

What to Expect

When you fast your body detoxifies, eliminating toxins from your system. This can cause mild discomfort such as headaches and irritability during withdrawal from caffeine and sugars. And naturally, you will have hunger pains. Limit your activity and exercise moderately. Take time to rest. You are following Jesus’ example when you fast. Spend time listening to praise and worship. Pray as often as you can throughout the day. Get away from the normal distractions as much as possible and keep your heart and mindset on seeking God’s face.

How to End

Don’t overeat when the time comes to end your fast. Begin eating solid food gradually; eat small portions or snacks.

RESOURCES

BOOKS

Fasting: Opening the Door to a Deeper, More Intimate, More Powerful Relationship with God
Jentzen Franklin

God's Chosen Fast
Arthur Wallis