Questions and Answers About Fasting

Is fasting for everyone? Fasting is beneficial for anyone who desires to draw closer to Christ. The Apostle Paul fasted often.

What if I don't feel called to fasting? Fasting is a spiritual discipline, just like prayer and reading the Bible. It is not something we are called to do, rather we choose to obey Christ and sacrifice some of the pleasures of this life in order to please God. Fasting trains us in self-control and produces fruits of peace and righteousness.

Why is fasting so important? It reduces our appetite for carnal pleasures and creates a hunger for God's treasures. We are commanded to walk in the Spirit so we won't fulfill the desires of the flesh. Fasting helps us to resist the flesh and walk uprightly before the Lord - to live a life which is pleasing to Him.

How do I get started? Begin with a one meal fast and go from there. Some of the most powerful fasts can be one or two meals if you enter into it with pure motives and a desire to spend time with the Lord Jesus.

What should I do while fasting? Spend as much time with Jesus as possible. This is how we become more and more like Him. Read your Bible, worship with song and thanksgiving, be silent and listen. Silent reverence with repentance is powerful!

Should I fast if I have dietary restrictions or am on medication? You should consult your physician if you have any concerns. Medical science has known for some time that our bodies purge toxins while we fast. Chapter 58 of Isaiah mentions healing as one of the many benefits of fasting. However, use discretion when doing a food fast and consider an alternate fast if you are medically restricted in any way. I really enjoy eating; do I have to do a food fast or are there other types of fasts? The most beneficial fast for your body and spirit is water only. However, God will honor any type of fast if you have a sincere desire for personal revival and holiness. Here are some alternatives to a food fast.

1. Daniel Fast -fruit, vegetables and water

2. Juice Fast - fruit and vegetable juices only. If you are hypoglycemic, you might want to use a 50% water mix with the juice, especially if using bottled or canned juices. Fresh juices, however, are best. They may be purchased from a health food store or use a juicer.

3. Media/Entertainment Fast - God will bless you mightily if you'll shut off the various media outlets and entertainment devices to seek Him. Set aside newspapers, talk radio and video games. Instead, spend time with your family and the Lord. The purpose is to focus on God and avoid distractions.

Why do I get headaches when I try to fast? Your body is purging toxins which have accumulated from years of a poor diet, prescription drugs and bad habits. Headaches are one of the results of this cleansing process (usually the second day). Prepare your system prior to a fast by eating healthier. Avoid red meat, sugar, caffeine and bread. Eat lots of fruit and vegetables three or four days before going on a fast of more than one day.

How will I benefit from fasting? The benefits of fasting are many for those who continue faithfully in this discipline. Here are just a few.

1. A significant increase of understanding and revelation from the Word of God Addictions and strongholds are broken--permanent changes take place.

2. Recognition of sinful attitudes or conditions of your heart that you haven't noticed before.

3. Decrease of self-indulgence and self-righteousness.

4. An increase of faith; Fear and doubt diminish because of confidence in God rather than your flesh.

5. Supernatural release from bitterness and an ability to forgive others.

6. A much greater sensitivity to God's presence.

7. The ability to hear God is greatly enhanced.

8. You increasingly become more like Jesus with a notable increase of love, humility and wisdom.

Will all of my prayers be answered if I fast and pray the right way? No, probably not. Fasting does not force God to do something He otherwise wouldn't do. Your circumstances may actually worsen at first. If you're fasting for God to change a particular person, it may not happen. However, there is no wasted time or energy when seeking God through fasting, prayer and worship. He will change YOU! He will soften your heart and give you a healthy perspective of your circumstances and relationships.

I don't hear many sermons on fasting. Does the Bible have much to say on the subject? Yes! The Old and New Testament alike speak volumes on fasting. Study these references and ask God for the grace to implement fasting into your life.

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