Fasting, according to the Bible, means voluntarily reducing or eliminating your intake of food for a specific time and purpose. It is a spiritual discipline that is taught throughout the Bible. During Jesus’s time on earth, fasting was a normal part of His rhythm of prayer. In Matthew 6:16–18, we read:
16 “And when you fast, don’t make it obvious, as the hypocrites do, for they try to look miserable and dishevelled so people will admire them for their fasting. I tell you the truth, that is the only reward they will ever get. 17 But when you fast, comb your hair[a] and wash your face. 18 Then no one will notice that you are fasting, except your Father, who knows what you do in private. And your Father, who sees everything, will reward you.
Why Fast?
- Fasting gives you more time for prayer.
You can use the time you’d normally spend eating as time in prayer, seeking what God wants to do among us. In the Bible, fasting is always connected with prayer. In Acts 13:2–3, we read: “While they were worshipping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.’ So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off.” (NIV)
- Fasting demonstrates the depth of your desire when praying.
It shows that you are serious enough about your prayer request to make a personal sacrifice. God honours sincere desire and prayers made in faith.
- Fasting releases God’s supernatural power.
It is a spiritual tool we can use when facing opposition to God’s will. Satan would like nothing more than to cause division, discouragement, defeat, depression, and doubt among us. United prayer and fasting has often been used by God to strike a decisive blow against the enemy.
Two Cautions
- Fasting is not a way to “earn” an answer to prayer.
God cannot be manipulated by human effort. He desires to answer our prayers and does so by His grace. Fasting simply prepares our hearts to receive His answer.
- Fast only if your health allows it.
If a complete fast is not suitable for you, consider a partial fast. Do what you can in faith, and God will honour your intention.
Types of Fasting
- Partial Fast (recommended for most)
Typically involves fasting for part of the day – such as the morning, afternoon, or evening – or abstaining from a one meal a day such as breakfast, lunch, or tea.
- Complete Fast
Abstaining from all food and drinking only water. (Note: If you are new to fasting, you may wish to begin with a partial or liquid fast.)
- Liquid Fast
Abstain from all solid food, but allow liquids such as smoothies, fresh juices, and puréed soups.
- Partial Fast (recommended for most)
Typically involves fasting for part of the day – such as the morning, afternoon, or evening – or abstaining from a one meal a day such as breakfast, lunch, or tea.
If fasting is new to you, we encourage you to give it a try—perhaps starting with a partial fast. Fasting is not a requirement, but it is a valuable spiritual discipline that can deepen your relationship with God.
