But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. – Matthew 6:17-18
The Purpose of Fasting
When we think about fasting, it’s essential to understand that it goes beyond simply abstaining from food. Fasting is a means to draw closer to God and seek His guidance in our lives. In the New Testament, we find encouragement to focus our hearts and minds on the Lord, allowing our physical need for food to serve as a reminder of our spiritual need for Him. It isn’t merely a ritual but an opportunity to experience a deeper intimacy with God as we humbly approach Him in prayer and supplication.
Matthew 6:16
When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. – Matthew 6:16
Acts 13:2
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.” – Acts 13:2
Luke 18:12
I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get. – Luke 18:12
1 Corinthians 7:5
Do not deprive each other except perhaps by mutual consent and for a time, so that you may devote yourselves to prayer. Then come together again so that Satan will not tempt you because of your lack of self-control. – 1 Corinthians 7:5
Matthew 4:2
After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. – Matthew 4:2
How to Fast
Fasting isn’t just about what we give up but how it impacts our hearts and minds. Jesus teaches us not to showcase our fasting to gain attention from others but to approach fasting with a humble heart. When we fast, we should focus on our connection to God rather than merely the act itself. This means spending time in prayer, reading Scripture, and reflecting on our spiritual needs. Rather than making a show of our self-denial, we are called to do so quietly and sincerely before our Father. Fasting becomes a personal and private communication with God.
Matthew 6:18
So that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. – Matthew 6:18
Acts 14:23
Paul and Barnabas appointed elders for them in each church and, with prayer and fasting, committed them to the Lord, in whom they had put their trust. – Acts 14:23
Matthew 17:21
But this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting. – Matthew 17:21
1 Timothy 4:3-4
They forbid people to marry and order them to abstain from certain foods, which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and who know the truth. – 1 Timothy 4:3-4
Luke 2:37
And then was a widow of about 84 years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. – Luke 2:37
Benefits of Fasting
As we engage in fasting, we may start to see the various benefits that come from this spiritual discipline. Fasting can help us gain clarity and direction as we seek God’s will in our lives. It allows us to establish an honest dialogue with the Lord, helping to identify areas of our lives that require healing and growth. We may find ourselves becoming more attuned to the needs of others, fostering a spirit of compassion and charity. Moreover, fasting can empower us to overcome temptations and strengthen our resolve.
Matthew 6:33
But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. – Matthew 6:33
Isaiah 58:6
Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke? – Isaiah 58:6
Matthew 9:15
Jesus answered, “How can the guests of the bridegroom mourn while he is with them? The time will come when the bridegroom will be taken from them; then they will fast.” – Matthew 9:15
James 4:8
Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. – James 4:8
Luke 5:33
They said to him, “John’s disciples often fast and pray, and so do the disciples of the Pharisees, but yours go on eating and drinking.” – Luke 5:33
Fasting and Prayer
Fasting is inextricably linked to prayer in the New Testament. Both acts serve as an opportunity for us to express our dependence on God. When we combine fasting with prayer, we open our hearts to receive direction and strength from the Holy Spirit. It allows us to seek wisdom in our decisions and intercede on behalf of others. The intimacy we develop through fasting is enhanced when we bring our requests and praises to God in prayer, creating a powerful experience where we can hear from Him more clearly.
Mark 9:29
He replied, “This kind can come out only by prayer and fasting.” – Mark 9:29
Acts 1:14
They all joined together constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers. – Acts 1:14
Colossians 4:2
Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. – Colossians 4:2
Luke 11:2
He said to them, “When you pray, say: ‘Father, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come.'” – Luke 11:2
1 Thessalonians 5:17
Pray continually. – 1 Thessalonians 5:17
Examples of Fasting in the Early Church
The early church set excellent examples of fasting as they sought the Lord’s guidance. They were obedient in their pursuit of holiness and spiritual growth. By observing and participating in fasting, they gained direction and empowered their leaders to spread the Gospel further. They understood that fasting wasn’t an isolated act but a communal experience that brought them closer together and to God. We can learn from their examples as we strive to imitate their dedication to seeking the Lord through fasting.
Acts 9:9
For three days he was blind, and did not eat or drink anything. – Acts 9:9
Acts 10:30
Four days ago I was in my house praying at this hour, at three in the afternoon. Suddenly a man in shining clothes stood before me. – Acts 10:30
Acts 13:3
So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off. – Acts 13:3
Acts 20:6
We boarded a ship from Philippi after the Festival of Unleavened Bread, and five days later joined the others at Troas, where we stayed seven days. – Acts 20:6
1 Corinthians 11:27
So then, whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sinning against the body and blood of the Lord. – 1 Corinthians 11:27
Personal Reflection and Growth through Fasting
When we embark on a fasting journey, we often find ourselves reflecting on our relationship with God. It becomes a time for personal growth as we confront our desires and dependencies. Through fasting, we may uncover areas in our lives that need to be realigned with God’s will. It can create space for healing and restoration, drawing us back to our first love. The act of fasting compels us to be more aware of our need for God and invites us into deeper fellowship with Him.
Matthew 6:21
For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. – Matthew 6:21
Philippians 3:19
Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is set on earthly things. – Philippians 3:19
James 1:22
Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. – James 1:22
2 Corinthians 5:17
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! – 2 Corinthians 5:17
Hebrews 12:1
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. – Hebrews 12:1
Final Thoughts
The practice of fasting in the New Testament is an important aspect of our faith. As we learn about its purpose, methods, and benefits, we find that it draws us closer to God. Fasting and prayer go hand in hand, allowing us to gain clarity and direction in our lives. By looking to the examples set by the early church, we can cultivate our fasting practices for personal growth and reflection, aligning our hearts with God’s will.
As we move forward, let us embrace fasting with humility and sincerity, seeking the Lord’s guidance and support. This discipline can transform our spiritual journey, leading to deeper connections with God and others. Together, let’s commit to seeking His presence and glory in everything we do.
If you’re interested in discovering more inspiring content, check out our articles on Bible Repository or read about Jesus’ suffering.