True biblical fasting requires prayer. You can pray without fasting, but you cannot fast, God’s way, without praying. If you have decided to fast, here are a couple of things to keep in mind:
1. Numerous times in the New Testament, Jesus spoke about fasting. He always said “when”, not “if” he fasts. It is something that Jesus expects of Christians. Although fasting should come from his heart’s desire, at first it may seem like a chore. It’s fine. Tithing isn’t always easy, either. But his obedience means more to God than his sacrifice. Like anything else, the more you do it, the easier it gets.
2. If you suffer from bulimia, anorexia, or any other condition where regular eating is imperative, you should never engage in a complete fast. There are other options, as listed below.
3. Fasting is not manipulation. You may be fasting to hear God more clearly or to receive an answer to a specific prayer, but you cannot fast God to do something for you. God is always more concerned with the condition of our hearts than with giving us what we want.
4. Unless you hear something different from God on this subject, don’t think you need to be on your knees for the entire period of fasting. God understands that you have a family, a job, and daily activities. Fasting and prayer can be done around these things. Again, it is a matter of the heart.
5. You will be hungry! Headaches, fatigue, and a general loss of energy are natural parts of a fast. This is your body reminding you that you are not giving it what it wants most. But, unless you have a condition like the one mentioned above, you will get over it, even if your mind tells you otherwise.
These are the four most common forms of fasting:
1. Fasting for twenty-four hours: this is the most normal and convenient fast today. It takes place from sunset to sunset the following night. The Jewish tradition was to eat a full meal in the late afternoon and then fast until dinner time the next day. You may want to eat a big dinner early and spend an hour with God after dinner, asking him to bless your fasting time. Waking up the next morning knowing that you’ll be able to eat that night makes dealing with hunger pangs a little easier to bear.
While most people drink only water while fasting, natural fruit juices are another option. Some people also choose to eat only fruits and vegetables during the fast, although this form is usually implemented during a longer fast (such as a three or more day). If caffeine is a major factor, you may choose to allow your morning coffee to wash away your headaches.
2. One meal per day: Recommended for those who are new to fasting or have a condition that does not allow for a full twenty-four hour fast. Try eliminating one meal per day and replace it with prayer time.
3. Fasting from Specific Foods – This form of fasting is traditionally practiced by Catholics during Lent. Whether it’s chocolate, sugar, chips, red meat, soda, or candy, this type of fast is a great disciplinary exercise, as well as a great way to deliver a wish to God. Use the time you would spend eating that particular food studying God’s Word and listening to his voice.
4. A complete (or radical) fast: not eating or drinking water for a period of time can be a health risk. The Bible tells of some people who abstained from both eating and drinking, including Ezra, Daniel, Esther, and Paul. But these cases were rare and extreme. If you choose to participate in a radical fast, do so only with the clear direction of the Holy Spirit.
Fasting is a form of worship and obedience. The benefits are many. Consult the following scriptures for more information on fasting:
2 Chronicles 20:3
Matthew 9:14
Matthew 6:16
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