Understanding the Discipline of FASTING
Dr. Rudy Bropleh | March 12, 2021
Last week I wrote about the deadly duo (for the Devil) of Fasting and Praying. Today I want to take a deeper dive into the spiritual discipline of Fasting. It is important to understand the depth and dimensions of the discipline of Fasting. Here are some important truths about Fasting.
1. Fasting is a sign of devotion to God; and Jesus followers are expected to fast (Matthew 6:16-18).
2. Fasting should have a focus on God, and not on yourself (Zechariah 7:4-5)
3. Fasting complements worship. Make time for worship during your fast. (Luke 2:37; Acts 13:2)
4. Fasting is a way of asking God for the things you really need (Ezra 8:21-23).
5. Fasting reminds you that it is God who sustains you (Matthew 4:4).
6. Fasting helps you to create some balance in your life (1 Corinthians 6:12-13).
7. Fasting and faithful action will get God’s attention (Isaiah 58:3-9).
One of the best ways to increase the value and power of your fast is to engage in prayer, worship, and service to others. Complement your fasting with faithful actions and good deeds.
In the Bible there are examples of different types of Fast. I have grouped the various types of biblical fast into four major categories:
a) Partial Fast (Daniel 10:3). This is when you eat some foods but not others.
b) Normal Fast (Luke 4:2). Abstaining from all foods except water for a period of time. Jesus fasted for 40 days. Today, this fast would normally be for a day or a week.
c) Absolute Fast (Esther 4:16). This kind of fast is not popular today; your body needs water after a while. But with God (as it was with Esther), anything is possible.
d) Group Fast (Leviticus 23:27). This is usually a short fast, for a day or a few days, and the entire “assembly” (or church) is asked to participate.
Fasting is a powerful spiritual discipline that draws us closer to God, strengthens our walk with God, and helps us develop the discipline needed to focus on the things that really matter in life.
Wisdom for Your Week
If you want a little extra from God, then do a little extra for God.
