Fasting

What is fasting?

• Fasting is perhaps the most misunderstood discipline.
• Christian fasting is the voluntary abstinence from food for spiritual purposes.

Why is fasting important?

• Fasting is expected.
  
  • “And when you fast…” (Matthew 6:16-17)
  • Fasting is discussed in Scripture more than baptism (77 compared to 75).
• If Jesus fasted, how much more should we?
  
  • Matthew 4:1-2

Different types of fasting

• A normal fast: abstaining from all food, but not from water or other liquids.
  
  • Matthew 4:2, Luke 4:2
• A partial fast: a limitation on the diet, but not abstention from all food.
  
  • Daniel 1:12, Matthew 3:4
• An absolute fast: the avoidance of all food and liquid, even water.
  
  • Ezra 10:6, Esther 4:16
• A congregational fast: fasting together as a congregation.
  
  • Joel 2:15-16, Acts 13:2
• An occasional fast: these occur on special occasions as the need arises.
  
  • Matthew 9:15

What is the purpose of fasting? 

• Without a clear purpose of fasting, it can easily become about a self-centered experience and a “holier than thou” moment.
• Fasting does not ensure that we will absolutely receive clear guidance from God. However, it does allow us to become more receptive to God who is willing to guide us.
• To strengthen prayer.
• To seek guidance from the Lord.
• To express grief.
• To seek deliverance.
• To repent and turn back to God.
• To humble oneself.
• To express concern for the work of God.
• To overcome temptation.
• To express love and worship to God.

How do we fast for our own spiritual growth?

• Fast as the Holy Spirit directs.
  
  • Are you willing to obey God when he prompts you to fast?
• Fast quietly.
  
  • Are you willing to allow your fast to be between you and God only?
• Fast for a purpose.
  
  • Are you willing to grow in your relationship with God as you sacrifice food for a period of time?

What is one thing you can do to improve the discipline of fasting?

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