Fasting: A Spiritual Discipline for Getting Closer to God
Healthy forms of fasting are known to bring loads of physical benefits to those who push away their plate on a regular basis. But this ancient practice is not just good for physical health – it’s a spiritual reset that works to bring us closer to God. When habits of distractions take all of our attention, God lends this habit of grace as a practice for those he loves.
So, what exactly is fasting?
Fasting is a spiritual discipline practiced by both Old and New Testament believers. Traditionally, it involves denying food while seeking God in prayer. This can sometimes happen naturally when we’re hurt or distraught, or experiencing a need that drives out all the rest. Choosing to fast helps to focus our attention, whether it be in worship, repentance, or on God’s power to intervene.
Why should we fast?
While fasting is not a command, it does help center ourselves and refocus our dependence rightly and squarely on God. The bible encourages us to fast, and Jesus expects that His followers will do so (Matthew 6:16-18). Just like prayer, baptism, or any other spiritual practice, fasting can help to activate our faith in a powerful way.
What does fasting look like?
The bible offers examples of both partial fasting – only fasting from certain foods, such as the Daniel fast (Daniel 1:11-14), or full fasting – avoiding all food for a designated amount of time. In our modern world of endless distraction, fasting doesn’t have to be limited to food! We can fast from other indulgences such as entertainment or certain activities - things that, while positive in moderation, can sometimes get in the way of seeking God fully.
Whether fasting corporately or on your own, these quick tips will help you get the most out of your dedicated time of fasting:
Receive what God offers you during this time.
While we should come to God expectant, remember that this is a time to respond to His presence. Stay open to receive whatever He offers and trust that He always knows best.
Let your hunger for what’s missing point you toward prayer.
When you find yourself desiring the very thing you’re fasting from, take a moment to pray. Meditate on the reason for your fasting in the first place. This is an easy and powerful way to pair your fasting with prayer!
Journal your journey.
Make note of what God is doing and all that He speaks to you during this time. Your notes will be a resource you can always come back to. Recount the ways He moved, met your needs, or changed your perspective on important situations.
Give yourself grace.
Fasting is not easy, if it was, everyone would jump to do it! Remember that while your heart may be willing, you’re still human. So if you slip up during your fast –it’s OK, don’t beat yourself up. Simply regroup, refocus and move and try again the next day. The purpose of fasting is to bring you closer to God and how that journey happens is between you and Him. Give yourself grace, and go at your own pace.
