What Does the Bible Say About Fasting?

If you’re wondering “what does the Bible say about fasting,” you’ll find it emphasizes spiritual discipline, prayer, and repentance.

The Bible provides guidance on fasting as a way to grow closer to God and seek His guidance and forgiveness.

Fasting is a spiritual discipline that has been practiced for centuries by various religious traditions, including Christianity.

While the Bible does not command fasting, it provides numerous examples and teachings that highlight its importance and benefits.

This article explores what the Bible says about fasting, its purpose, examples from both the Old and New Testaments, guidelines for practicing it, and its relevance in modern Christian practice.

What Does the Bible Say About Fasting: Key Takeaways

• Fasting is a spiritual practice mentioned over 70 times in the Bible and is seen as a way to focus on prayer and seeking God’s will.
• Both the Old and New Testaments provide examples of fasting, including notable figures like Moses, Daniel, and Jesus, who fasted for spiritual growth and revelation.
• The Bible emphasizes the importance of fasting with the right motives and warns against doing it for show or as a mere ritual.
• Fasting is not commanded in Scripture, but it is presented as a beneficial practice that can deepen one’s relationship with God.
• Modern Christian practice of fasting can include various forms, not just abstaining from food, to accommodate different health considerations and personal circumstances.

The Purpose of Fasting in the Bible

Spiritual Benefits

Fasting is a practice deeply rooted in the Bible, mentioned over 70 times throughout Scripture. It is not merely about abstaining from food or drink but is a means to focus on prayer and seeking God’s will. The spiritual benefits are numerous: it quiets your inner self, helps you gain power over physical desires, and fosters gratitude. When you fast, you redirect your attention to God, which can lead to a deeper fellowship with Him.

Fasting and Prayer

In the Bible, fasting is often coupled with prayer. This combination is powerful, as it prepares you for the works God has ordained for you to do. Jesus, in Matthew 6:16, begins His teaching on fasting with “When you fast,” not “If you fast,” indicating that fasting is an expected practice for His followers. Through fasting and prayer, believers can seek God’s guidance and align themselves more closely with His will.

Fasting as Worship

Fasting is also a form of worship. It is not about punishing the flesh but about redirecting attention to God. By giving up something temporarily, whether it be food or another comfort, believers can draw closer to God. This act of sacrifice is a way to honor God and show devotion. Fasting should not be seen as a dieting method or a way to earn favor but as a spiritual discipline that enhances one’s relationship with God.

Examples of Fasting in the Old Testament

Fasting was a significant spiritual discipline in the Old Testament, practiced by many key biblical figures. These fasts were often undertaken during times of seeking divine guidance or expressing deep repentance. Here are some notable examples:

Moses’ 40-Day Fast

Moses fasted for 40 days and nights on two separate occasions. During these periods, he neither ate bread nor drank water while he was on Mount Sinai, receiving the Ten Commandments from God (Deuteronomy 9:18-19, Exodus 34:28).

Daniel’s Partial Fast

Daniel engaged in a partial fast, abstaining from choice foods, meat, and wine for three weeks. This fast was a time of mourning and seeking understanding from God (Daniel 10:3).

Public and Private Fasts

In the Old Testament, there were both public and private fasts. Public fasts were often called during times of national crisis or repentance, such as the fast proclaimed by Esther for the Jews in Susa (Esther 4:16). Private fasts, on the other hand, were personal acts of devotion and seeking God’s will, as seen in the examples of Ezra and others (Ezra 8:23).

Examples of Fasting in the New Testament

Jesus’ 40-Day Fast

Jesus’ fast of 40 days and nights in the wilderness is one of the most well-known instances of fasting in the New Testament. This period of fasting was a time of preparation for His ministry and a demonstration of His reliance on God. This kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting.

Early Church Practices

The early church incorporated fasting into their spiritual practices, often combining it with prayer. This was done to seek guidance from God, especially during significant decisions like appointing elders. Fasting was seen as a way to humble oneself and seek divine direction.

Paul’s Fasting

Paul also practiced fasting, particularly during times of intense spiritual need or decision-making. His fasting was a means to focus on God’s will and to seek clarity and strength in his mission.

Fasting in the New Testament is portrayed as a powerful spiritual discipline that brings believers closer to God and aligns them with His purposes.

Guidelines for Fasting According to Scripture

Right Motives for Fasting

Fasting should be undertaken with the right motives. It is not about showing off one’s piety but about seeking a deeper connection with God. The focus should be on spiritual growth and humility, not on gaining approval from others.

Warnings Against Hypocrisy

Jesus warned against fasting with a hypocritical attitude. He emphasized that fasting should be done in secret, not to gain praise from people. The true reward comes from God, who sees what is done in private.

Physical and Spiritual Preparation

Proper preparation is essential for a meaningful fast. This includes both physical and spiritual readiness. Physically, one should ensure they are healthy enough to fast, especially when abstaining from food. Spiritually, it involves prayer and setting clear intentions for the fast.

Fasting is a time to focus all our attention on God, setting aside distractions to seek His will and guidance.

Fasting and Modern Christian Practice

Fasting in Contemporary Christianity

In today’s Christian community, fasting is often seen as an ancient practice, yet it remains relevant. Fasting is a much-needed discipline in the life of a believer. It allows Christians to deepen their relationship with God and become more sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s guidance. Many churches encourage fasting during specific seasons, such as Lent, to foster spiritual growth and reflection.

Health Considerations

While fasting can be spiritually enriching, it is essential to consider health implications. Extended periods without food can be harmful, so it’s crucial to approach fasting with wisdom. Here are some health tips for fasting:

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
• Consult with a healthcare professional before starting a fast, especially if you have underlying health conditions.
• Listen to your body and break the fast if you feel unwell.

Alternative Forms of Fasting

Although traditional fasting involves abstaining from food, there are other ways to fast. Anything given up temporarily to focus on God can be considered a fast. Some alternative forms of fasting include:

• Media fast: Abstaining from television, social media, or other forms of entertainment.
• Activity fast: Giving up certain activities, such as shopping or hobbies, to spend more time in prayer and reflection.
• Partial fast: Limiting certain types of food or meals rather than complete abstention.

Fasting prepares you for the works God has ordained for you to do. It is a powerful way to humble yourself before God and seek His will in your life.

Common Misconceptions About Fasting

Fasting as a Diet

One common misconception is that fasting is merely a form of dieting. While fasting can lead to weight loss, its primary purpose in the Bible is spiritual growth and deepening one’s relationship with God. Fasting should not be confused with modern diet trends.

Fasting to Earn Favor

Another misunderstanding is that fasting can be used to earn favor from God. A prayer about something weighing heavily on you isn’t a bad thing by any means, but there’s nothing scriptural that suggests fasting makes YHWH respond more favorably. Instead, fasting is about aligning oneself with God’s will and seeking spiritual clarity.

Fasting as Punishment

Some people mistakenly view fasting as a form of self-punishment. However, biblical fasting is not about inflicting pain or suffering on oneself. It is a voluntary act of worship and devotion, meant to draw the believer closer to God.

Fasting prepares you for the works God has ordained for you to do. It is a spiritual discipline that should be approached with the right motives and a sincere heart.

What Does the Bible Say About Fasting: Conclusion

The Bible presents fasting as a spiritually enriching practice when done with the right motives.

While it is not commanded or forbidden, fasting is depicted as a means to draw closer to God, seek His will, and gain spiritual insight. Both the Old and New Testaments provide numerous examples of fasting, demonstrating its value and significance.

Whether through public or private fasting, the ultimate goal is to deepen one’s relationship with God and focus on spiritual growth.

Therefore, fasting remains a valuable practice for believers who wish to enhance their spiritual journey.

FAQs: What Does the Bible Say About Fasting

What does the Bible say about fasting?

In Bible times, fasting was acceptable to God when it was done with the right motive. However, the Bible neither commands nor forbids fasting for people today.

What are the spiritual benefits of fasting?

Fasting helps believers grow a more intimate relationship with Christ and opens their eyes to what He wants to teach them.

Are there different types of fasting mentioned in the Bible?

Yes, both the Old Testament and New Testament mention public and private fasts, each offering great spiritual benefits.

What did Jesus say about fasting?

In Matthew 6:16-18, Jesus instructed His followers not to fast like hypocrites who seek attention, but to fast in secret, so that only God knows.

Is fasting required for Christians today?

Scripture does not command Christians to fast. While God does not require or demand it, fasting is presented as something that is good, profitable, and beneficial.

Can fasting be harmful?

Fasting should not be used as a dieting method or to punish the flesh. It is important to consider health conditions and consult a doctor if necessary before fasting.