The Blessings of Fasting

Today's question is: What do we give up when we fast? Some debate that spiritual fasting, as God intended, is only from food. We see Moses and Jesus abstain completely from food for 40 days (Ex. 34:28, Matt. 4:2). Daniel completed a partial fast for 21 days, giving up certain types of food for the sake of health and spiritual clarity (Dan. 10:2-3). The dictionary defines fasting as abstinence from food or drink or both for health, ritualistic, religious, or ethical purposes. However, this notion inadvertently excludes those who require food for medical reasons. So, can we fast from things other than food? Yes, depending on how the fast is conducted.

The significance of fasting lies in making a sacrifice for the Lord. We must deny our physical desires and humble ourselves to allow our spirit to flourish. We can choose to fast from other activities such as social media, television, going out, spending extra money, video games, music, etc. Nevertheless, it is the intention and manner in which we conduct these fasts that truly define them. 

Let's take an example to understand this better. If I decide to give up social media for seven days but replace my scrolling time with binge-watching television, I’ve essentially filled one fleshly desire with another. In this case, it’s not a fast but merely a good intention. When we fast from nonfood items, it’s important that we give the time we would’ve spent doing those things to the Lord. We must be extremely careful not to replace something we’re supposed to sacrifice with its equivalent.

When we devote our time to the Lord during fasting, He can speak directly to our hearts, as our focus is entirely on Him. When and how we fast is up to the individual. Remember, Jesus said, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, take up his cross, and follow Me.” When we deny ourselves, our flesh or physical desires become less and less in charge of our decisions and choices. For this reason, our spiritual strength grows more and more in the Lord. Our clarity becomes sharper and the life path God has chosen for us illuminates like neon lights.

Matthew 6:16-18 NLT teaches, “And when you fast, don’t make it obvious, as the hypocrites do, for they try to look miserable and disheveled so people will admire them for their fasting. I tell you the truth, that is the only reward they will ever get. But when you fast, comb your hair and wash your face. Then, no one will notice that you are fasting except your Father, who knows what you do in private. And your Father, who sees everything, will reward you.” 

Allow the promised rewards of fasting to rejuvenate every aspect of your life. I pray many blessings over everyone to enjoy a fasted life, whether from food or something else.

Happy fasting!