Fasting With OthersSample

Banding Together

We do not always have to fast alone. Fasting with others gives us opportunities to encourage one another during times of opposition.

A phrase that is often used for those who fight a battle or have a common goal is to "band together." The mutual support of others can be an encouragement to push through opposition. This theme comes out in Ecclesiastes where it talks about the strength of a braided cord. Jesus' teaching also covered this when He talks about the power of praying with others. Yet when it comes to fasting, we are hesitant about sharing the experience as a group. Marie Dell talks about a way to approach fasting with others.

Jesus made it clear that we are not to make it obvious that we are fasting. We are not to call attention to the sacrifice that we are making. Is that why we hesitate to do a group fast? As Marie said, there can be a great benefit to fasting as a shared experience. You can use the lessons you learn as a way to give glory to God. As the days and months pass, you will have a common point of reflection that you use to offer praise to God.

Apply

• How can you fast with others in a way that you encourage one another?
• Who are some people with whom you could do a group fast?