Fasting

OVERVIEW. Fasting is abstaining from eating food for a set period of time in order to build hunger for and intimacy with the Lord. In the past, we’ve talked about “fasting” from things other than food. While a helpful practice of abstinence, that is not biblical fasting. Also, it’s important to remember that spiritual disciplines, like fasting, are not a sign of spiritual maturity but a means to increased maturity.

PRACTICE. 
Consider different ways you can engage with fasting. A regular rhythm might look like: 

• Fasting one day a week 
• Fasting two days a week (historically, Christians fasted Wednesdays and Fridays) 
• Fasting a single meal 
• Sun-up fast: fasting food while the sun is up

Before starting your fast, take some time to ask the Holy Spirit what He is inviting you into. Some helpful questions to help get envisioned for fasting might be:

• What’s an area of my life that I would love to get more freedom in? Or an area that I would like increased intimacy with the Lord?
• Do I know anyone that fasts on a regular basis? Do they have any encouraging stories of fasting and the role it’s played in their apprenticeship to Jesus?
• What objections have I had toward spiritual disciplines like fasting? How do those keep me from the good that God has for me?

Before fasting, take some time to pray through the following questions: 

• How have my past experiences with fasting helped or hindered my relationship with Jesus?
• How is God leading me to approach fasting in this season of life?
• What are my concerns or objections that come up around fasting?
• What is the Lord speaking in response to those concerns?

If you would like some guidance on planning your fast, practical tips, and advice for breaking well, take a look at our fasting guide.