Salt & Light 3
What is Biblical Fasting? PDF Print E-mail


Fasting is deliberately refraining from eating food for a period of time for spiritual purposes.  It may consist of total abstinence from all food and water or from certain foods as a means of drawing closer to God regarding a specific thing.  It is an outward demonstration of our inward sincerity to God.  This sincerity reflects the inner heart's desire and God responds when He sees our heart.


In the gospel of Matthew, chapter 6, Christ-followers are instructed to do three things:  give (tithe), pray & fast.  We are very acquainted with the first two - giving and praying, but in today's world not very many of us fast.  Fasting takes discipline.  It takes strength and it takes a willingness to let God be in control of our cravings and desires.


Fasting brings drastic results.  Isaiah 58:6 says, "[Is] this not the fast that I have chosen: To loose the bonds of wickedness, To undo the heavy burdens, To let the oppressed go free, And that you break every yoke?"  Fasting brings release for us.  Release that is manifested by God Himself.


You may ask "Why fast?"  If any of these apply to you then you may have your answer.

  1. Are you in need of healing or a miracle?

  2. Do you need the tender touch of God in your life?

  3. Is there a dream inside you that only He can make possible?

  4. Are you in need of a fresh encounter?

  5. Do you desire a deeper, more intimate and powerful relationship with the Lord?

  6. Are you ready to have heightened sensitivity to the desires of God?

  7. Do you need to break away from bondages that have been holding you hostage?

  8. Is there a friend or loved one that needs Salvation?

  9. Do you desire to know God's will for your life?


God is powerful and miraculous.  He can do great things in the lives of His children and fasting is one of the most powerful ways we can see Him at work as we submit ourselves to Him.

There are numerous lengths of fasts - from one meal to 40-days.  Fasting is not something to dread or fear, but rather something that will bring you closer to God and unleash His power in your life.