InterVarsity-Fasting

Fasting

Fasting is a common spiritual discipline for several religions. Different religions fast for different reasons, and fasting does not always mean the same thing for everyone. So as Christians, what does fasting look like? Why do we fast? When should we fast?

What is Fasting?

Broadly speaking, fasting is the intentional self-denial of something for a purpose. One of the most common ways people fast is to give up food for a time. Lent is another common example of fasting; many people fast by choosing to give up something in preparation for Easter. Because fasting is self-denying, we should choose to fast from something that is a part of our normal routine. For example, if someone does not check Facebook more than once per month, fasting from Facebook for a day would not be self-denying for that person.

What is the Purpose of Fasting?

We fast so that we can focus on God. Selecting one or more things to go without for a time can be a picture of our constant surrender to God; we place Him above our needs and desires. Fasting can also remind us to be humble and recognize our dependence on God. If you choose to give up food, consider meditating on Isaiah 40:28-31(NIV): Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Additionally, fasting is an incredible reminder to pray, especially for a specific topic. Because fasting involves giving something up that is part of our routine, every time we would normally engage with what we are fasting from, we are reminded that we are fasting. We should take that moment to pray.

When Should We Fast?

Just as there are many reasons to fast, there are many times we can choose to fast. In the Old Testament, fasting was often a sign of repentance from sins. Throughout scripture, people would fast before significant events and decisions. Ester and all the Jews in the area fasted before she approached the King (Esther 4). Paul and Barnabas fasted before appointing leaders in the new churches they had begun (Acts 14). There are also examples of people fasting for a specific prayer request. David spent several days fasting while in prayer for his son to be healed (2 Samuel 12). Additionally, we see fasting as part of early church leaders’ spiritual lives in Acts 13. We can fast at any time, but we primarily fast as a part of earnest prayer.

How Should We Fast?

Prayerfully consider what to fast from and how long to fast. It is helpful to be specific in both decisions before beginning in order to reduce temptation to find loopholes while fasting. Some examples might include: fasting from food during the daylight, fasting from Facebook for a week, fasting from television for a weekend. Remember that your fast should consistently remind you to pray. Additionally, while fasting can be an individual discipline, most times we see fasting in the Bible, we see people fasting and praying in community. Just as we pray individually and in community, we should fast individually and in community.