If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.
2 CHRONICLES 7:14
What is a Fast?
The goal of fasting is to draw near to God. Biblical fasting always has to do with eliminating distractions for a spiritual purpose. Fasting is a way to express our desire for God and our holy discontent in a fallen world.
Remember, a personal fast should present a level of challenge, but it is very important to know your body, your options, and most importantly, to seek God in prayer and follow what the Holy Spirit leads you to do.
Why Should I Fast?
Simply put, fasting is choosing to say ‘no’ to something we love in order to create space for something we love evening more.
Below are scriptural reasons why fasting is a vital discipline in a Christian’s life.
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1. To humble ourselves to God. (Psalm 35:13, 1 Samuel 7:6, Ezra 9)
2. To draw closer to God. (James 4:8)
3. To understand God’s Word. (Ephesians 1:17-22)
4. To know God’s will or direction. (Acts 13:1-2)
5. To seek healing and freedom. (Isaiah 58, Matthew 17:21)
6. To seek God’s intervention. (2 Samuel 12:16-23, 2 Chronicles 20:3)
7. To intercede for others. (Daniel 9:3)
Different Types of Fasts.
There are many different kinds of fasts. The most important part of fasting is the time we spend with God in prayer. If we deny ourselves food and do not pray then we will accomplish nothing. The following types of fasts are simply references to what we can abstain from while we seek the Lord in prayer.
1. Full Fast
A full fast is going completely without food for the allotted time. There are at least four references in the Bible when people fasted food and water. However, we are only referencing food as a full fast for obvious reasons. If you choose to do a full fast then we recommend you consult with others prior to doing so, especially if you take any kind of medication.
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2. Partial Fast
A partial fast is to simply go without a meal or two the day of your fast. For example, you could fast from dinner or lunch and spend an extended amount of time in prayer in place of that meal. There are no rules to this kind of fasting but you should decide beforehand what you will do and stick to it, as with all fasts.
3. Selective Fast
This kind of fast comes from Daniel chapter 10, where Daniel had a terrifying vision that caused him to abstain from all pleasant food and drink. If you choose to do this kind of fast then essentially you will be abstaining from all “meats, sweets and treats.” Most people stick to fruits, vegetables, and nuts or similar kinds of protein. There are many resources online that provide healthy options for this fast.
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4. Soul Fast
This fast is a great option if you do not have much experience with fasting food, have health issues that prevent you from fasting food, or if you wish to refocus certain areas of your life that are out of balance. For example, you might choose to stop using social media or watching television for the duration of the fast and then carefully bring that element back into your life in healthy doses at the conclusion of the fast.
PRACTICAL STEPS OF FASTING
1. Plan your fast.
What kind of fast? How long? Write your plan out!
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2. Be specific with your fasting.
Know why you’re fasting. What are your objectives?
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3. Plan your prayer time for each day.
When will you pray? Where will you pray?
4. Follow our daily prayer guide.
Pray along with our church using our guide.
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5. Seek Accountability.
It’s good to share what you’re doing with a trusted friend.
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6. Stay hydrated.
Drink lots of water.