“And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was afterward an hungred.” – Matthew 4:2
bible verses about 3 days fasting
Understanding the Purpose of Our Fast
When we set aside time for fasting, especially for three days, we may wonder about its purpose. Fasting is not just about abstaining from food; it is a spiritual discipline aimed at drawing us closer to God. It allows us to turn our focus away from daily distractions and to seek His will with sincerity and devotion. We fast to humble ourselves before the Lord, acknowledging our dependence on Him. In doing so, we can open our hearts to receive His guidance and strength. Through prayer and seeking the Holy Spirit, we become more sensitive to God’s voice and teachings during our time of fasting.
Matthew 6:16
“Moreover when you fast, do not be like the hypocrites, with a sad countenance: for they disfigure their faces, that they may appear unto men to fast. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.” – Matthew 6:16
Isaiah 58:6
“Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that you break every yoke?” – Isaiah 58:6
Joel 2:12
“Therefore also now, saith the LORD, turn ye even to me with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning.” – Joel 2:12
Acts 13:3
“And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.” – Acts 13:3
Ezra 8:23
“So we fasted and besought our God for this: and he was entreated of us.” – Ezra 8:23
Spiritual Cleanliness through Fasting
As we look into three days of fasting, we find that it is a way for us to cleanse our spirits and minds. This act of refraining from food allows us to internally detoxify while opening ourselves to God. During these days, we intentionally seek the presence of Spirit. We become more aware of both our weaknesses and God’s grace. This period not only revitalizes our spirits but also helps us focus on personal growth in our relationship with Christ. With each passing day, our hearts become lighter, and we are reminded of His mercy and unending love.
Psalms 69:10
“When I wept, and chastened my soul with fasting, that was to my reproach.” – Psalms 69:10
1 Corinthians 9:27
“But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.” – 1 Corinthians 9:27
Matthew 4:4
“But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God.” – Matthew 4:4
Luke 4:2
“Being forty days tempted of the devil. And in those days he did eat nothing: and when they were ended, he afterward hungered.” – Luke 4:2
Ezekiel 18:30
“Therefore I will judge you, O house of Israel, every one according to his ways, saith the Lord GOD. Repent, and turn yourselves from all your offenses; so sin will not be your downfall.” – Ezekiel 18:30
Fasting for Clarity and Direction
During our three days of fasting, we often seek clarity and direction from God. Fasting enhances our spiritual focus, allowing us to hear God’s still small voice more clearly. This can be a transformative time when we bring our questions, struggles, and aspirations before Him. We come to Him with open hearts, trusting that He will lead us on the right path. It is a divine opportunity for us to surrender our worries and uncertainties and receive fresh insight and wisdom from His Word.
James 1:5
“If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.” – James 1:5
Psalms 25:4-5
“Show me thy ways, O LORD; teach me thy paths. Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day.” – Psalms 25:4-5
Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thy own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” – Proverbs 3:5-6
Jeremiah 33:3
“Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and show thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not.” – Jeremiah 33:3
Romans 12:2
“And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” – Romans 12:2
Strength in Our Weakness During Fasting
Three days of fasting may come with its challenges, and it is during these moments that we realize our innate weaknesses. Yet, this is not a time to feel defeated. Instead, we can find our strength in God. When we fast, we have the opportunity to depend on Him more than before. We realize that our spirit can overcome our flesh. By surrendering our weaknesses, we allow Him to fill our lives with His power and grace. In our darkest moments, we find hope and renewal through our reliance on Him.
2 Corinthians 12:9
“And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” – 2 Corinthians 12:9
Philippians 4:13
“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” – Philippians 4:13
Psalms 119:28
“My soul melteth for heaviness: strengthen thou me according unto thy word.” – Psalms 119:28
Isaiah 40:31
“But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.” – Isaiah 40:31
Ephesians 6:10
“Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.” – Ephesians 6:10
Fasting as an Act of Worship
Fasting for three days can be a beautiful way to express our worship to God. By setting aside meals, we can devote that time to prayer and reflection. This time can draw us closer to Him and deepen our relationship with the Father. It is our way of saying, “Lord, You are more important than food.” Worship is not confined to singing; it can take many forms. Our hearts become attuned to His presence when we offer Him our sacrifices and devotion through fasting.
John 4:24
“God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.” – John 4:24
Psalms 95:6
“O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the LORD our maker.” – Psalms 95:6
Colossians 3:16
“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.” – Colossians 3:16
Romans 12:1
“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.” – Romans 12:1
Psalms 100:2
“Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing.” – Psalms 100:2
God’s Promises During Fasting
As we engage in three days of fasting, we can hold onto the promises that God gives us throughout Scripture. These promises remind us that our fasting is not in vain and that God is always present. Our prayers do not go unheard, and He is faithful to respond when we come to Him with sincere hearts. By fasting, we align ourselves with His plans, trusting that better things are ahead. We embark on a path of faith, leaning into the assurance of His love and faithfulness during our time of seeking Him.
Psalms 34:17
“The righteous cry, and the LORD heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles.” – Psalms 34:17
Matthew 7:7
“Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” – Matthew 7:7
2 Chronicles 7:14
“If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.” – 2 Chronicles 7:14
1 John 5:14
“And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us.” – 1 John 5:14
Philippians 4:19
“But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:19
Final Thoughts
Through our exploration of fasting for three days, we have recognized its significance as a spiritual tool to deepen our relationship with God. Fasting allows us to focus on His promises, seek His guidance, and worship Him more freely. It provides clarity, strength, and a way to cleanse our spirits. Fasting features the beauty of surrendering our weaknesses and turning our hearts towards Him.
As we finish this reflection, let us remember that fasting is an invitation from God to draw nearer to Him. It is encouragement for us to embrace His presence, trust His guidance, and celebrate His love. Through perseverance, intention, and faith, we know that He will be with us each step of the way.
We invite you to continue exploring topics that uplift your spirit. Consider reading about the resurrection in the Bible verses about Jesus’ resurrection or learn more about His rising in the Bible verses about Jesus rising. May your journey of faith be enriched and blessed.