Fasting and Prayer

Seeking God with Humility, Dependence, and Focus

Throughout Scripture, God’s people often combined prayer with fasting during times of worship, repentance, important decisions, and deep spiritual need. Fasting was never intended to earn God’s favor or force Him to answer prayers. Instead, it was a way of setting aside something important for a time in order to give greater attention to seeking Him.

Jesus expected that His followers would fast, just as they would pray and give generously. He taught that fasting should be done quietly, humbly, and with the right motives—not to impress others, but to draw closer to God.

Fasting reminds us that our deepest need is not found in food, comfort, or possessions.

Our deepest need is found in God alone.

When fasting is joined with sincere prayer, it becomes a meaningful spiritual discipline that helps us focus our hearts on His presence, His will, and His purposes.

What Is Biblical Fasting?

Biblical fasting is the voluntary setting aside of food—or sometimes another legitimate activity—for a period of time in order to devote yourself more fully to prayer and seeking God.

The emphasis is not on what you are giving up.

The emphasis is on giving more of yourself to God.

Fasting should always deepen your relationship with Him rather than become an empty religious practice.

Why Do Christians Fast?

Believers fast for many different reasons.

To seek God’s guidance.

To focus during important decisions.

To express repentance.

To pray for others.

To grow spiritually.

To deepen worship.

To renew dependence upon God.

The goal is never to manipulate God.

The goal is to seek Him with an undivided heart.

Fast with the Right Attitude

Jesus warned against fasting to gain attention or admiration.

Fasting is an act of worship between you and God.

Approach it with humility.

Joy.

Sincerity.

Gratitude.

Remember that God looks at the heart rather than outward appearances.

Spend the Time with God

The time normally spent eating or enjoying the activity you have set aside should become time for prayer.

Read Scripture.

Meditate on God’s Word.

Listen quietly.

Pray for your family.

Your church.

Your community.

Your nation.

Allow your fast to draw you into a deeper awareness of God’s presence.

Consider Your Health

Not everyone should fast from food.

Children.

Older adults.

Pregnant women.

People with diabetes or other medical conditions.

Anyone taking certain medications.

These individuals should seek medical advice before fasting from food.

Some Christians choose to fast from television, social media, entertainment, or another activity instead, using that time to focus on prayer and Scripture.

The purpose is not the type of fast.

The purpose is drawing closer to God.