FASTING
Introduction
Fasting is a time when you abstain from something (usually food) for a period of time in order to focus on seeking the Lord. Fasting sounds scary! I mean, why would anyone choose to not eat? And what does that have to do with our relationship with God? Fasting can be so intimidating that we think it’s only something for “super Christians” or “really spiritual people.” Even if we are interested or ready to try fasting, we don’t always know where to start. Let’s break it down a little bit. When you fast, you are removing something from your daily routine, so that you can focus more intently on God. In Scripture, this always involves fasting from food for a time. However, we don’t have to limit fasting to food.
We can experience spiritual significance by fasting from things like social media, television, or smartphones. With fasting, the why is more important than the what. Why should you fast? Fasting should always be about focusing on God. Maybe you want to pray, ask for something specific, maybe you want to hear from God more clearly, or maybe you want to experience a deeper communion with your Heavenly Father. These are just a few good reasons to fast. In the end, the most important part of fasting is to remove something for a period of time to help you spend more intentional time with God.
Main Scriptures
Questions
- What does Matthew 6:16-18 teach us about fasting?
- Read Luke 2:36-38. How do you think fasting, prayer, and worship are connected?
- Read Acts 13:1-3 and Acts 14:21-25. How do you think fasting is connected to ministry?
- What do these passages teach us about fasting?
- When should we fast? How can we fast? What can it look like?
- Have you ever fasted before? Why? What was your experience like?