There are all kinds of reasons why people fast. Some do it to lose weight, others to make a statement. But in the Bible, fasting has a much deeper meaning: it's a way to draw closer to God, to focus your heart on Him and to experience spiritual growth. In this blog, we'll tell you what fasting means, how it can help you as a Christian and which method to choose.
Why fast?
In the Bible we read that people fasted in times of sorrow, preparation, repentance and devotion to God. Fasting is more than just refraining from food. It's a time when you consciously make space for God and acknowledge your dependence on Him. It helps us fully surrender and trust that He will provide what we need. As Jesus said:
“It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.” - Matthew 4:4
Jesus fasting in the desert
Jesus Himself fasted for forty days in the desert. He did so before He began His ministry.
“After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry.” - Matthew 4:2
From this, we can learn that fasting can prepare us for the calling God has for us. By resisting worldly distractions, you give Him more room to work with you. You surrender to Jesus, deepening your relationship with Him.
How fasting helps you grow spiritually
Fasting helps you put your focus entirely on God, rather than on the things of the world. When you give up something - whether it's food, social media or anything else - more space is created to focus your heart and thoughts on Him.
Bible verses on the spiritual effect of fasting
- “Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.” - James 4:8
- “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.” - Isaiah 40:31
Different types of fasting
Okay, you want to start fasting! But how exactly do you do that? There is no one right way. In fact, you can fast in a variety of ways. Here are a few options:
- Complete fast - No food and only drink water. This is the most common biblical way of fasting, as we see with Jesus, among others.
- Fasting from specific things - For example: no meat, sugar or social media. While not specifically mentioned in the Bible, this method can help you abstain from worldly distractions.
- Daniel fast - Only simple, unprocessed foods such as vegetables and water. Daniel chose this form of fasting to focus on God and seek His guidance.
How long should I fast?
Have you chosen what you want to fast from? Good job! Now it's important to decide how long you will abstain from that. The Bible shows different lengths of fasting, depending on the situation and purpose:
- 40 days: Jesus fasted for 40 days in the desert (Matthew 4:2).
- 21 days: Daniel fasted 21 days with a partial fast (Daniel 10:3).
- 3 days: Esther and the people of Israel fasted for three days without eating or drinking (Esther 4:16).
- 1 day: In the Old Testament, people sometimes fasted for one day, such as on the Day of Atonement (Leviticus 23:27).
There is no set rule for how long to fast. The important thing is that you listen to God's guidance and fast in a way that helps you draw closer to Him.
Fasting with the right intent
The purpose of fasting is not to impress others, but to draw closer to God. Fasting without prayer and (quiet) time with God makes little spiritual sense.
Bible verses about your intention for fasting
- “But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” - Matthew 6:17-18
- “Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke?” - Isaiah 58:6
When you fast, don't just focus on what you can't eat, but mostly on how your heart goes out to God. Use the time you normally spend on food or social media to pray, read the Bible and deepen your relationship with Jesus.
Starting a fast? These are our tips!
- Start with a clear purpose: Why do you want to fast? What do you want God to do in your life?
- Choose the type of fasting that suits you and build it up slowly.
- Take extra time for prayer and Bible reading during this time.
- Expect change! God often speaks powerfully during times of fasting.
Fasting is a powerful way to deepen your faith, cleanse your heart and allow God into your life in a new way. During Lent - the 40 days before Easter - many Christians engage in fasting. Perhaps this is the perfect time to start it! 🙏🏽
Check out our collection of Christian prints and cards to remind you daily of God's word and share the gospel with others!
