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
Understanding the Purpose of Fasting
Fasting is an essential spiritual practice that draws us closer to God and helps us seek His guidance and strength. It is more than merely abstaining from food; it is an act of devotion meant to realign our priorities and create space for more profound communion with our Father. By fasting, we express our humility and reliance on Him, recognizing that spiritual nourishment is just as critical as our physical sustenance. We reflect on our deep desire to grow in faith and understand God’s will in a more profound way. It teaches us that true sustenance comes from relying on His word and presence amidst our trials.
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
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
Joel 2:12
“Even now,” declares the Lord, “return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning.” – Joel 2:12
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
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
The Attitude of Our Hearts When Fasting
As we engage in the practice of fasting, our hearts and minds must be in the right place. It’s not just about the physical act; it’s essential that our intentions are pure and focused on seeking God. We should approach this spiritually demanding practice with a mindset of admiration and respect towards God, not seeking attention or validation from those around us. Our fasting should be an act of love and devotion, revealing our sincere desire to grow in His likeness. When our hearts are aligned with God’s, we can anticipate a season of growth and transformation.
Matthew 15:8
“These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.” – Matthew 15:8
Proverbs 16:2
“All a person’s ways seem pure to them, but motives are weighed by the Lord.” – Proverbs 16:2
Psalms 139:23-24
“Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” – Psalms 139:23-24
Matthew 7:7
“Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.” – Matthew 7:7
Romans 12:2
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” – Romans 12:2
Seeking God’s Guidance Through Fasting
In our lives, we often face decisions and situations where we earnestly seek God’s direction. Fasting serves as a vital tool in these moments, allowing us to remove distractions and earnestly focus on hearing His voice. We can approach God with our questions and uncertainties, seeking His wisdom and insight. With prayer accompanying our fasting, we can find clarity and peace as we align ourselves with His purpose. It creates an intimate space where we can pour out our hearts and receive His guidance. We may feel a deep connection to God’s plans for our lives while we actively seek Him through this spiritual discipline.
James 1:5
“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.” – James 1:5
Isaiah 58:9
“Then you will call, and the Lord will answer; you will cry for help, and he will say: Here am I. If you do away with the yoke of oppression, with the pointing finger and malicious talk,” – Isaiah 58:9
Psalms 37:5
“Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this.” – Psalms 37:5
Psalm 50:15
“And call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honor me.” – Psalm 50:15
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
Fasting and Prayer: The Perfect Pair
Fasting and prayer go hand in hand as a powerful form of worship that connects us with God on a deeper level. While fasting involves abstaining from physical nourishment, it is the fervent prayers we lift during this time that turn our sacrifice into a spiritual offering. Together, fasting and prayer create a dynamic relationship where we not only express our dependence on God, but we also open our hearts to receive His promises. By dedicating ourselves completely to prayer during fasting, we can witness transformative changes in our lives and circumstances as God moves in response to our faith.
Matthew 17:21
“But this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting.” – Matthew 17:21
Mark 9:29
“He replied, ‘This kind can come out only by prayer.’” – Mark 9:29
1 Thessalonians 5:17
“Pray without ceasing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:17
Ephesians 6:18
“And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.” – Ephesians 6:18
Luke 21:36
“Be always on the watch, and pray that you may be able to escape all that is about to happen, and that you may be able to stand before the Son of Man.” – Luke 21:36
The Spiritual Benefits of Fasting
Fasting not only draws us closer to God but also offers numerous spiritual benefits. It’s a powerful way to seek His presence, clear our minds, and cultivate our spiritual growth. As we fast, we can experience breakthroughs in our faith, healing in our hearts, and a renewed perspective on our challenges. This intentional separation from daily routines allows us to reset our focus on God and strengthen our commitment to living according to His purpose. The rewards of fasting extend beyond our immediate circumstances and will help us grow in character, patience, and deeper love for those around us.
Philippians 4:19
“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:19
2 Chronicles 20:3-4
“Alarmed, Jehoshaphat resolved to inquire of the Lord, and he proclaimed a fast for all Judah. The people of Judah came together to seek help from the Lord; indeed, they came from every town in Judah to seek him.” – 2 Chronicles 20:3-4
2 Samuel 12:16
“David pleaded with God for the child. He fasted and spent the nights lying in sackcloth on the ground.” – 2 Samuel 12:16
Ezra 8:23
“So we fasted and petitioned our God about this, and he answered our prayer.” – Ezra 8:23
Galatians 6:9
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” – Galatians 6:9
Fasting as a Means of Humility
The act of fasting calls us to humbly acknowledge our dependence on God. It is an expression of our desire to surrender our plans and desires to Him, recognizing that He is in control of all things. When we fast, we wear our humility as a badge, as we intentionally sacrifice for spiritual growth. This act of humility not only allows us to draw closer to God but also helps us see our own vulnerabilities and the need for His grace daily. Our commitment to fasting reinforces our understanding that we are created by Him to live in a relationship marked by trust and reverence.
Psalms 69:10
“When I weep and fast, I must endure scorn.” – Psalms 69:10
Psalms 3513
“Yet when they were ill, I put on sackcloth and humbled myself with fasting. When my prayers returned unanswered.” – Psalms 35:13
James 4:10
“Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.” – James 4:10
Psalm 35: 15
“But when I stumbled, they gathered in glee; attackers gathered against me when I was unaware; they slandered me without ceasing.” – Psalm 35:15
Lamentations 2:19
“Arise, cry out in the night, as the watches of the night begin; pour out your heart like water in the presence of the Lord. Lift up your hands to him for the lives of your children, who faint from hunger at every street corner.” – Lamentations 2:19
Final Thoughts
Fasting is a profound and personal act of devotion that serves to deepen our relationship with God. As we reflect on the purpose of fasting, the attitude of our hearts, and the spiritual benefits that come from it, we recognize its value in our faith journey. We are reminded that it is not just about abstaining from food but about seeking God with sincerity and humility. With prayer as our companion, we can invite God’s presence to guide us and provide clarity in our lives. There is power in fasting; it is an opportunity for transformation and deeper communion with God.
If you feel inspired, continue to explore other topics related to faith and spirituality. You may want to read more about the importance of community in our lives at gathering to eat or search for additional scripture at Bible Repository.