FASTING GUIDE

Hitting the reset button

The goal of fasting is to draw nearer to God. Biblical fasting is about eliminating distractions for a spiritual purpose; it hits the reset button of our soul and renews us from the inside out. Fasting allows us to celebrate the goodness and mercy of God and prepares our hearts for the blessings He desires to bring into our lives.

Preparing for your fast

Before you begin your fast, take some time to seek God in prayer. Reflect on what you hope to gain from this experience and ask the Holy Spirit to guide you in your fasting journey. Remember, your personal fast should present a level of challenge, but it’s important to know your body, consider your options, and follow what the Holy Spirit leads you to do.

The Bible is full of examples of people who have abstained from food to seek God:

Jesus fasted before He began His public ministry (Luke 4:1,2). Nehemiah fasted to help him confess his sins to God and turn away from them and to ask God for favor in the sight of the king of Persia to get permission to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem (Nehemiah 1:4). David fasted to ask God to intervene because of injustice (Psalm 35:13). In 2 Samuel 12:17, 23, he fasted to ask for a miraculous healing.

Mordecai and the Jews fasted upon hearing news of Haman’s wicked plot for their extermination (Esther 4:3).
The early church fasted while worshiping and committing their ministry to the Lord. They also sought the Lord through fasting for guidance when they appointed leaders (Acts 13:2; 14:23).

Fasting is a biblical way to truly humble yourself in the sight of God. King David said, “I humbled myself with fasting” (Psalm 35:13).

Fasting enables the Holy Spirit to reveal your true spiritual condition, resulting in brokenness, repentance and a transformed life.

Your confidence and faith in God will be strengthened. You will feel mentally, spiritually and physically refreshed.

It’s important to understand that fasting is not a way to get a better response to prayer. Rather, true fasting is a means of fostering a better (humbler) approach to prayer.

There are may types of fasting - here are 3 suggestions;

Full Fast

In a full fast, you consume only liquids, typically water, with light juices as an option. This method can be intense, so it's crucial to prepare both physically and spiritually.

Daniel Fast

The Daniel Fast involves removing certain elements from your diet for a determined period. During the Daniel Fast, you eliminate meat, sweets, and bread, consuming only water and juices for liquids, along with fruits and vegetables for food. This type of fast is a great way to nourish your body while focusing your heart on God.

Partial Fast or Intermittent Fast

This type of fast allows you to skip certain meals or specific types of foods. For example, you might choose to fast from breakfast or dinner or eliminate specific items like caffeine or processed foods during the fasting period.

Fasting Tips

Start with a Plan:
Determine the type of fast you will undertake, the duration, and any specific goals you have in mind. Write these down to keep you accountable.

Stay Hydrated:
Ensure you drink plenty of water, especially if you're doing a full fast. Staying hydrated is essential for your health and well-being.

Create a Prayer Schedule:
Set aside dedicated time each day for prayer and Bible reading. Focus on seeking God and engaging with Him throughout your fast.

Journal Your Experience:
Keep a journal to record your thoughts, feelings, and any revelations you receive from God during your fast. This will help you reflect on your journey.

Listen to Your Body:
Pay attention to how your body responds to fasting. If you feel unwell, consider modifying your fast, and consult a medical professional if necessary.

End Your Fast Gradually:
When concluding your fast, especially if it’s a full fast, give your body time to adjust. Start with light meals, such as fruit or broth, before returning to your regular diet.

Fasting is a spiritual discipline that can lead to profound growth and intimacy with God. As you embark on this journey, remember to stay connected with others who are fasting, and share testimonies as you witness God working in your life.

Philippians 4:6-7

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."