FASTING

Isaiah 58: 1-8

Fasting is not what I would call fun, but it is a private discipline that brings public reward.  It is not enjoyable to the flesh, but Jesus our example fasted.  Many others in the bible fasted.  Moses, Elijah, Elisha, Peter, and Paul all fasted.  Fasting is supposed to be part of our Christian lifestyle just like prayer and reading the bible. 

When we fast at the beginning of the year I believe it is just like tithing.  We give God the first portion of our income and He blesses the rest of it.  When we give God the first part of the year it sets the tone for the rest of the year.  I believe that we will receive blessings and answer to prayer late in the year that will be directly connected to this 21 day fast starting today.  The fact is that if you will get serious about God and join in on this fast over the next 21 days it will change your life.  

What is fasting?  Biblical fasting is deliberately abstaining from food for a specific period of time for the purpose of communication and a deeper relationship with God.  During this fast, you need to focus on intimacy with God.  Develop a relationship with God.  Remember, prayer is a dialogue. 

Why should I fast?  Jesus commanded us to fast in Matthew 6 and Luke 5.  In Matthew 6 Jesus said when you pray, when you give, and when you fast.  He did not say if you pray, give, and fast.  Jesus was asked in Luke 5 why his disciples did not fast.  He told them that while he was with them there was no need to fast, but when he would be taken away they would need to fast.  Jesus fasted as our example.  If the son of God fasted then we too should fast. 

Fasting puts things in the right perspective.  Fasting puts things in the right order.  We have a tendency as Christians to get things out of order when we do not set aside time to fast and pray and seek the kingdom of God.  Fasting weakens the flesh, and strengthens our Spirit in Jesus Christ.  Our relationship with God becomes more important than food and the things of the world. 

Fasting is not just going without food.  If fasting is not connected with prayer and reading God’s word then all you are doing is starving.  You need to understand that headaches are normal.  You are no different than anyone else.  Some people think that because they have a headache and feel weak that they are somehow different.  You are no different.  Every person that is fasting will have headaches and feel weak.  It is part of fasting.  Don’t give up.  There will come a point in the fast that you will start feeling really good. 

There are different types of fasts:

Make sure that if you have any physical conditions that you consult a doctor.  Just do something that will be a sacrifice and whatever you sacrifice God will take notice.

Scripture References for Fasting: Matthew 6:16-18, Matthew 9:14-15, Luke 18:9-14

Relation to Prayer and Reading of the Word: 1 Samuel 1:6-8, 17-18, Nehemiah 1:4, Daniel 9:3, 20, Joel 2:12, Luke 2:37, Acts 10:30, Acts 13:2

Corporate Fasting: 1 Samuel 7:5-6, Ezra 8:21-23, Nehemiah 9:1-3, Joel 2:15-16, Jonah 3:5-10, Acts 27:33-37

Remember that it is the attitude of a heart sincerely seeking Him to which God responds with a blessing (Isaiah 58, Jeremiah 14:12, 1 Corinthians 8:8). May God greatly bless you as you fast!

Full Fast Drink only liquids (you establish the number of days).

The Daniel Fast Eat no meat, no sweets and no bread. Drink water and juice. Eat fruits and vegetables. Learn More

3-Day Fast This fast can be a Full Fast, Daniel Fast or give up at least one item of food.

Partial Fast A partial fast is from 6:00 am to 3:00 pm or from sun up to sundown. This fast can be a Full Fast, Daniel Fast or give up at least one item of food.

Scripture References for Fasting: Matthew 6:16-18, Matthew 9:14-15, Luke 18:9-14

Relation to Prayer and Reading of the Word: 1 Samuel 1:6-8, 17-18, Nehemiah 1:4, Daniel 9:3, 20, Joel 2:12, Luke 2:37, Acts 10:30, Acts 13:2

Corporate Fasting: 1 Samuel 7:5-6, Ezra 8:21-23, Nehemiah 9:1-3, Joel 2:15-16, Jonah 3:5-10, Acts 27:33-37

Remember that it is the attitude of a heart sincerely seeking Him to which God responds with a blessing (Isaiah 58, Jeremiah 14:12, 1 Corinthians 8:8). May God greatly bless you as you fast!