Why do we fast? It’s all about putting aside our fleshly desires and staying connected with God year-round, not just for a short season. Below, I’ve listed the main reasons and key facts about fasting, highlighting its purpose and significance. I hope this brings more clarity to your spiritual life.
1. Denying the Flesh
Fasting is not a trend or about losing weight. The act of fasting often begins with the intention of denying our fleshly desires. In Galatians 5:17, we learn that “the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh.” By fasting, we actively resist the pull of our worldly appetites, allowing our spiritual lives to flourish instead.
2. An Intimate Relationship with God
Fasting is not about starving ourselves in hopes that’s sufficient, and God hears us; fasting is combined with prayer. It’s building and maintaining a deeper relationship with God. In James 4:8, we are encouraged, “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” When we set aside time for fasting, we create space for prayer, meditation, and reflection, allowing our hearts to align with God’s will.
– Consider the example of Daniel
In Daniel 9:3, where he says, “So I turned to the Lord God and pleaded with him in prayer and petition, in fasting, and in sackcloth and ashes.” Daniel’s fasting was a response not only to his desire for God’s intervention but also a sincere expression of humility and dedication. Through fasting, he sought a deeper understanding of God’s purpose and guidance for his people.
3. Seeking God’s Guidance
Fasting is also a powerful way to seek God’s guidance in our lives. Acts 13:2 tells us, “While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.’” Through prayer and fasting, the early church received clear direction and was empowered to fulfill its mission. When we fast, we align ourselves with God’s plans and open our hearts to receive His instructions.
4. The Purpose of fasting is often
While many people think of fasting as a practice to observe during Lent or at other specific times of the year, it is important to understand that fasting is a year-round commitment. As Romans 12:1 urges us, “And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him.”
– How to fast
Set a specific day during the week or month for fasting and present it to God. When the day approaches, make sure it is kept between you and God, unless it is a public fast done with your church, as in Matthew 6:16, it says, “And when you fast, don’t make it obvious, as the hypocrites do, for they try to look miserable and disheveled so people will admire them for their fasting. I tell you the truth, that is the only reward they will ever get.” Fasting is set to be an intimate event with God. The day of your fast should begin at 12:00 am, and you should set a time to end. For example, I start at 12 am, and I aim for more than 6 hours after I wake up. During the fast, I study the Bible and pray constantly throughout the day. Each and every single time I feel closer to God, and I feel realigned, and I encourage you to do the same in Jesus’ name, amen.
