top of page
fasting_101-title-2-Wide 16x9_edited.jpg

What is Fasting?

Fasting is a time that we can slow down and sacrifice different things in our life to devote more time to spend with God. We see Jesus fasting in Matthew 4, and Jesus expected His followers to fast in Matthew 6:16-18. We also see other characters in the Bible fasting (Moses in Exodus 34, Daniel in Daniel 1&10, Nehemiah in Nehemiah 1, etc). Fasting can take various forms and be practiced for varying lengths of time. Fasting is intended to be difficult and helps an individual to become more dependent upon God. â€‹

​

​

Different Types of Fasting

1.png

Partial Fasting

Giving up certain foods or fasting during designated meal times. Examples can be found below:

  • Daniel Fast - This is the biblical model from Daniel 1:8-14 and 10:2-3.

  • Juice Fast - Fruit and Vegetable juice only.

  • Other examples: Giving up sweets, caffeine, etc. 

2.png

Absolute Fast

Fasting from food completely. Drinking only water. A couple of models can be found below. 

  • Jewish Fast: Fasting from 6pm-6pm.

  • Daylight Fasting: Fasting from sunrise to sunset. 

  •  7 Days - 1 Samuel 31:13

  • 14 Days - Acts 27:33-34

3.png

Technology Fast

This is a more modern day version of fasting. While there are no biblical models, it is a great tool for creating intentional time with God. 

  • Social Media Fast - Giving up social media for a designated period of time. 

  • Television Fast - Giving up television and spending that time instead reading God's Word. 

Tips for Fasting 

​
  • Spend the time to plan out the fast. Do not expect to jump in with no prep and be able to succeed. ​​
  • Have a reason for fasting. What's going on in your life? Where do you need to grow spiritually? What situation or who in your life right now needs your attention and intentional prayer? 
  • If you have health concerns, be sure to check with a doctor before a dietary fast. 
  • Have accountability partner(s) fasting with you and walking through scripture together.
  • Although our church fasts for 21 days before Easter, fasting does not have to be that length or at that time. Strive for it to become a regularly practiced spiritual discipline in your life?
  • You might lose weight while fasting, but this should not be the motive for your fast. The fast should be focused upon your relationship with God, not a number on a scale. 
  • When breaking the fast, slowly ease back into your normal diet. Especially after an absolute fast. The longer you fast, the more slowly you will want to ease back into your normal eating habits.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

    • Benefits of Fasting

    Resources for Fasting

    Resources for Fasting

    bottom of page