Fasting

What place does fasting hold in your life?

Fasting can be approached in different ways. At its core, it’s about intentionally setting something aside in order to give focused attention to God. In the Bible, fasting most often involves food. It is the voluntary choice to stop eating for a period of time.

Jesus models this clearly. In Matthew 4, He fasts for forty days and nights. At the end of that fast, He is tempted and overcomes with God’s Word.

Fasting. Fighting. Overcoming.

The early church also fasted. In Acts 13, the church fasts and worships together. During that time, the Holy Spirit speaks, and Barnabas and Saul are appointed for a specific mission.

Fasting. Hearing, Sending.

These moments show that fasting is not about religious performance. Fasting creates space. Space to listen. Space to discern. Space to respond to what God is doing.

So what about you?

Do you fast when a struggle feels heavy, or when you sense one coming? Do you fast when a decision is in front of you and clarity feels hard to find? When you fast, are you listening for the guidance of the Holy Spirit?

Fasting sharpens your awareness.. It helps you notice what needs to change and gives you courage to face it. Discernment and boldness often grow together in that space.

One simple definition captures this well: Fasting is praying with your body.

Your rumbling stomach becomes a prayer that says, “Lord, I am hungry to hear Your voice.” Your feeling of emptiness says, “Nothing truly satisfies apart from You. Fill me, Lord.”

Reflection Questions

• What place does fasting hold in your life?
• How can you practice fasting in the coming week?

Prayer

Lord Jesus, You fasted, and throughout history, Your people have fasted to seek You more fully. Teach me how to fast with humility and purpose. Give me clarity and courage to set things aside and honor You with my whole self. Speak, Lord. I am listening. Amen.

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