Christian Fasting
What is it?
What is Christian fasting? Biblically, fasting is abstaining from food, drink, sleep or sex to focus on a period of
spiritual growth. Specifically, we humbly deny something of the flesh to glorify God, enhance our spirit, and go
deeper in our prayer life.
Christian Fasting - Focus Deeper on God
Christian fasting isn't some kind of a "work" that's commanded by Christ or required by Scripture. However,
that doesn't mean that fasting isn't recommended as a part of our spiritual growth. The Book of Acts records
believers fasting before they made important decisions (Acts 13:4; 14:23). Fasting and prayer are often linked
together (Luke 2:37; 5:33). Too often, the focus of fasting is on the lack of food. However, the purpose of fasting
is to take our eyes off the things of this world and instead focus on God. Fasting is a way to demonstrate to God
and to ourselves that we are serious about our relationship with Him. Although fasting in Scripture is almost
always a fasting from food, there are other ways to fast. Anything you can temporarily give up in order to better
focus on God can be considered a fast (1Corinthinas 7:1-5). Fasting should be limited to a set time, especially
when the fasting is from food. Extended periods of time without eating are harmful to the body. Fasting is not
intended to punish our flesh, but to focus on God.
Fasting should not be considered a "dieting method" either. We shouldn't fast to lose weight, but rather to gain
deeper fellowship with God. Yes, anyone can fast. Some may not be able to fast from food (diabetics, for
example), but everyone can temporarily give up something in order to focus on God. Even unplugging the
television for a period of time can be an effective fast.
Yes, it's a good idea for believers to fast from time to time. Fasting is not required in Scripture, but it's highly
recommended. The only Biblical reason to fast is to develop a closer walk with God. By taking our eyes off the
things of this world, we can focus better on Christ. "When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for
they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full.
But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to men that you are
fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward
you" (Matthew 6:16-18).
Christian Fasting - A Lifestyle of Servant Living
Christian fasting is more than denying ourselves food or something else of the flesh - it's a sacrificial lifestyle
before God. In Isaiah 58, we learn what a "true fast" is. It's not just a one-time act of humility and denial before
God, it's a lifestyle of servant ministry to others. As Isaiah tells us, fasting encourages humility, loosens the
chains of injustice, unties the chords of the yoke, frees the oppressed, feeds the hungry, provides for the poor,
and clothes the naked. This concept of fasting isn't a one day thing - it's a lifestyle of servant living for God and
others.
"Then your light shall break forth like the morning, your healing shall spring forth speedily, and your
righteousness shall go before you; the glory of the Lord shall be your rear guard. Then you shall call, and the
Lord will answer; you shall cry, and He will say, 'Here I am.' (Isaiah 58:8-9)