Let’s Talk Fasting
Verses Used:
- Matthew 6:16-18
- Joel 2:12
- Isaiah 58:6-9
- Matthew 4:1-2
- Psalm 63:1
- 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
Devotional
Fasting is something many Christians know about, but few actually practice. As I write this, I am currently on day five of an extended fast. For this fast, I am consuming only water and electrolytes.
Fasting isn’t only healthy—it is biblical.
Before beginning this fast, I unknowingly prepared my body for it. I had already been eating a low-carb keto diet and spent the last few days before the fast eating carnivore and OMAD (One Meal A Day). That helped my body become more efficient at burning fat for fuel. Because of that preparation, this fast has gone surprisingly well. My energy has been good, and I haven’t experienced much hunger. Thankfully, I have plenty of stored fuel for my body to use—LOL.
But this fast is about much more than food.
This time I intentionally gave this fast to God.
I prayed before I started and continue to pray throughout the day.
“Lord, I give this fasting time to You. I want to eat, but I am fasting for You. Draw me closer to You. Sustain me through this fast and teach me what You want me to learn.”
Every day I thank God for carrying me through it.
One thing Scripture makes clear is that fasting is not about earning God’s favor. It is about humbling ourselves before Him, seeking Him more deeply, and removing distractions so we can focus on His presence. We see examples throughout the Bible of people fasting as they sought God’s guidance, repentance, wisdom, and strength. Jesus Himself fasted in the wilderness before beginning His earthly ministry (Matthew 4:1-2).
There are also many forms of fasting. Not everyone is called to a multi-day food fast. Some people may choose to fast a meal, a day, certain foods, social media, television, desserts, alcohol, smoking, or another habit that has gained too much control over their attention. The goal is not simply giving something up—the goal is giving that time, desire, and focus to God.
One thing this experience has taught me is how attached many of us have become to food. Food is a wonderful gift from God, but sometimes it can become more important to us than it should be. Fasting has a way of revealing what controls us. When we willingly step away from something we enjoy, we often discover how much we depended on it.
Our culture constantly tells us to eat more, snack more, and consume more. Fasting reminds us that our deepest need is not food—it is God. As David wrote in Psalm 63, our souls thirst for Him.
There may also be physical benefits to fasting. Many people report improvements in areas of health, and researchers continue to study the effects of fasting on the body. While I won’t go into the health side here, there are many resources available if you want to learn more. Perhaps one reason God calls us to periods of fasting is because He designed our bodies in ways that can benefit from seasons of rest as well.
If you’ve never fasted before, don’t feel like you need to start with five days. Consider starting with 16 hours, then perhaps 24 hours, and gradually work your way up if appropriate. If you’re fasting something other than food, maybe commit to 21 or 30 days and dedicate that time to prayer and Scripture.
Most importantly, make it about God.
I am not a doctor, and I am simply sharing my personal journey. If you have medical conditions, take medications, are pregnant, or have health concerns, consult your doctor before attempting any extended fast.
Whether you fast from food, social media, or another distraction, give it to God. Seek Him often. Pray continually. You may be surprised by what He teaches you.
Have an amazing day, and God bless.
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for being our true source of strength and provision. Help us learn to depend on You more than the things of this world. As we fast, whether from food or other distractions, draw us closer to Your heart. Teach us to seek You first, trust You completely, and listen for Your voice.
Give us wisdom, self-control, and perseverance. Reveal anything in our lives that has taken Your place and help us surrender it to You. Thank You for sustaining us each day and for Your faithfulness through every season.
May our fasting not be about appearances but about growing closer to You.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen.
This is an acceptable day to the LORD. It is for your health and there is a rereward.
I think I’d cry good tears to finally see people doing this.
This is 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 ye break every yoke; to deal thy bread to the hungry, and bring the poor that are cast out to thy house; that when thou seest the naked, thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh. Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily: and thy righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the LORD shall be thy rereward. Isaiah 58:5-8