There is one question that many Christians find difficult to answer: How do you fast in Christianity? For many members of the faith, this practice can invoke spiritual, physical, and emotional responses, so it’s important to understand the true purpose of a fast.
Fasting is a biblical practice that has been around for hundreds and even thousands of years, as it is found in the Bible’s Old and New Testaments. In them, it is referred to as “abstaining from food or certain foods” and is used as a way to seek the Lord’s forgiveness and express humility. It is also used to seek clarity and guidance from God, to mourn a loved one, or to heal spiritual and physical ailments.
The Bible provides a few different ways to fast and no one particular method is prescribed. For example, one might choose to abstain from food and drink, or they could eat only certain foods or only one meal a day. Others might choose to refrain from certain activities, such as reading, working, watching television, or engaging in any type of entertainment.
When abstaining from food or drink, it is important to keep in mind that there are some health risks associated with extended periods of fasting. Individuals who are fasting should be sure to stay hydrated and replace calories with healthy alternatives. Additionally, those who are fasting may experience dizziness or fatigue, so it is important to take breaks from fasting if needed.
In order to make fasting more meaningful, it is important to focus on prayer and study during the fast. Focusing on thoughts and conversations with God can help to achieve the desired spiritual and emotional response. Additionally, reading passages from the Bible or Christian literature can be beneficial. It is also important to make sure that the fast is done in a safe place where one can be pure in thought and avoid any places measuring in temptation.
Being faithful to the Lord in a fast is more than just abstaining from food and drink. It is understanding the need to be humble, seeking guidance, and striving to become a more honest Christian. A fast should also be a time of personal reflection to understand what has been taken for granted, what changes need to be made, and what should be appreciated. In essence, it is a time of self-examination that uncovers areas in need of spiritual healing and personal development.
Reducing Material Pleasure
The purpose of fasting in Christianity is to eliminate material pleasure in order to experience spiritual fulfillment. Abstaining from worldly desires can bring about a greater understanding of what it means to be devoted to Christ. Additionally, giving up material comforts can bring to light how much an individual cares about the Lord’s work and message. To put it simply, fasting brings about a deeper spiritual awareness and understanding that is always greater than any physical wants or needs.
Fasting reminds us that we are subject to God. We are not capable of sustaining ourselves without his guidance and love, and so by abstaining from physical pleasure we are actively reminding ourselves of this fact. It is a reminder of the words found in 1 Corinthians 6:12, “All things are lawful for me, but not all things are helpful. All things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.”
Throughout the Bible, God encourages fasting and repentance. This means that Christians should not only give up material and worldly desires, but should also make a conscious effort to apologize for any wrongdoings, sins, or failures. A heartfelt and sincere fasting should be accompanied by a repentant attitude, seeking both forgiveness and clarity from the Lord.
Seeking Guidance and Focusing on Prayer
Fasting also helps to bring individuals closer to God through concentrated prayer. The Bible has many stories of individuals dedicating long, extended fasts to seek the Lord’s forgiveness and guidance. For example, Jonah fasted for three days and nights to find mercy from God, and Esther fasted for three days in order to muster the courage to approach the king and save her people.
Modern-day Christians can learn from this guidance by dedicating a period of time to focus on God’s will and plan. Blocking out distractions, such as television, the internet, and conversations, can help to make this practice more meaningful and powerful. Additionally, if prayer is difficult for some, setting aside a specific time for gratitude for all of the blessings in one’s life is also beneficial.
During a fast, prayer and contemplation can provide clarity, insight, and patience. Meaningful time spent with God can result in an awesome experience of peace and joy, feelings which can easily translate into every area of one’s life.
Finding Reassurance in the Bible
Christians who may be uncertain about fasting should take comfort in the fact that the Bible speaks positively of it. Isaiah 58:6-7 reads: “Is not this the fasting that I choose: to loose the bonds of wickedness, to undo the straps of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free, and to break every yoke? Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, and bring the homeless poor into your house; when you see the naked, to cover him and not to hide yourself from your own flesh?”
These verses serve as reminders that fasting can be viewed as an act of charity and goodwill. Being willing to share one’s material in order to help the less fortunate is an example of how Jesus looked after others and how He asked us to follow. Additionally, fasting does not need to be seen as a punishment or an obligation, but it can be observed for joy and for the Lord’s glory.
Abstaining from Activity
The world has become increasingly busy and it can be hard to just stop and be still, so fasting can be used as a way to hit the pause button and to turn inwards. It can act as a time to clear the mind of the dizzying noise and confusion of everyday life. By dedicating time to God and abstaining from activities that can distract one from this relationship, the true purification of the heart and soul can take place.
Different activities such as praying, reading the Bible, or even journaling can be done during a fast to bring about an experience similar to a retreat. In fact, some churches and organizations will host retreats and events specifically for fasting in order to deepen the experience and to create a safe environment for others.
Balance, Moderation, and Personal Choice
Regardless of one’s faith, all people can benefit from taking a break from their routine. However, just like any emotion or spiritual practice, it is important to keep balance and moderation in mind when fasting. It should be viewed as an individual choice and not a set expectation. Additionally, it is important to remember that fasting only works as an effective tool when it is accompanied with prayer, reflection, and repentance.
If done correctly and in the right state of mind and with intention, fasting can bring an immense peace and joy when connecting with the Lord. It can be an overwhelmingly positive experience if it is done correctly, and it should not be seen as a punishment but rather as an individual act of devotion.
