There are many methods to establish a connection with God, methods that foster a deeper bond and open your heart to allow Him to communicate with you and for you to share your thoughts with Him.
Prayer is a form of communion with the Lord, a time when you come before the Creator of the Universe to understand Him and to share your heart with Him. In return, you seek to understand His heart for you and to listen for His voice.
Fasting is another method to achieve this, the practice of not engaging in a particular action. While most fasting involves not eating, it can also mean not using electronics, media, or engaging in any other activity of your choosing.
RELATED: Bible Verses Against Spiritual Husband
The combination of prayer and fasting creates a space in your life that is free from distractions or actions, allowing you to spend time in communion with the Lord God.
The Heart of Fasting Is the Position of the Heart
Whether it’s giving up Facebook or fried foods for God, it’s the heart’s stance that truly matters to Him.
As the verse in 1 Samuel 15:22 says, “The Lord looks into a person’s heart, not their outward looks,” and this principle applies to fasting as well.
Matthew 6:17-18 also says, “But when you fast, apply oil to your head and cleanse your face, so that your fasting is not apparent to others, but only to your father, who is beyond sight; and your father, who observes in secret, will reward you.”
Fasting isn’t about impressing others; it’s about the closeness and heart stance of the individual fasting before God Almighty. In His timing and methods, He will respond.
Our Lord Jesus Also Fasted
While He was away in the wild, Jesus went without food for 40 days.
RELATED: How To Remember Your Dreams When You Wake Up
Luke 4 says, “Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, left the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, where for 40 days he was tempted by the devil. He ate nothing during those days, and at the end of them he was hungry.”
It’s important to understand that right after this period of fasting, Jesus started His work among people.
Luke 5 opens with Jesus gathering his followers. This period of fasting and prayer in the wild set the stage for everything that was about to unfold.
The wild and fast were confronted with challenges from the adversary, Satan, yet it was through these challenges and fast that Jesus was prepared for His work.
How To Fast And Pray According To The Bible
Let’s take a quick look at how to fast and pray according to the Bible:
1. Fasting from 12 Midnight to 12 noon:
Practical Tips:
- Prepare Mentally and Spiritually: Set aside time for prayer and reflection the night before to align your intentions with God’s will for your fast.
- Stay Spiritually Engaged: Use the morning hours to engage in prayer, meditation, and studying scripture to deepen your spiritual connection.
RELATED: Prayers To Remember Dreams
Biblical Inspiration
- Moses’ Forty-Day Fast (Exodus 34:28): Moses fasted for forty days and nights in the presence of God on Mount Sinai, receiving the Ten Commandments. His fasting exemplifies the power of seeking God’s guidance through extended periods of prayer and fasting.
- Jesus’ Temptation in the Wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11): Before beginning His public ministry, Jesus fasted for forty days and nights in the wilderness, where He was tempted by the devil. His fasting prepared Him for spiritual battle and fortified His resolve to fulfill God’s purpose.
2. Fasting from 12 Midnight to 3 PM:
Practical Tips:
- You Must Eat Nothing: In this type of fasting, you must not drink or eat any food between 12 Midnight to 3 PM.
- Break Your Fast Mindfully: When breaking your fast at 3 PM, choose nutrient-rich foods to nourish your body and sustain your energy levels.
Biblical Inspiration:
Esther’s Fast (Esther 4:16): Esther and her people fasted for three days and nights as they faced impending danger. Their fasting, coupled with prayer, led to divine intervention and the salvation of their people.
RELATED: Why Do I Forget My Dreams When I Wake Up
The Widow at Zarephath (1 Kings 17:8-16): During a time of drought and famine, the widow at Zarephath fasted with her son, offering the little food they had to the prophet Elijah.
Their sacrificial act of faith resulted in God’s miraculous provision of an abundance of flour and oil, sustaining them throughout the famine.
3. Fasting from 12 Midnight to 6 PM:
Practical Tips:
- Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to your body’s signals during the fasting period and adjust your activities accordingly Note that, from 12 Midnight to 6 PM, you must not eat or drink any food.
- Break Your Fast with Gratitude: When breaking your fast at 6 PM, pray and express gratitude to God for His provision and sustenance throughout the day.
Biblical Inspiration:
Daniel’s Fast (Daniel 1:8-16): Daniel and his friends chose to abstain from the king’s rich food and wine, opting for a diet of vegetables and water. Their commitment to God’s dietary laws resulted in greater health and vitality.
RELATED: Spirit Spouse Deliverance
Jesus’ Teaching on Prayer and Fasting (Matthew 6:16-18): Jesus instructed His disciples on the importance of fasting with sincerity and humility, emphasizing the need for private devotion and genuine repentance.
Prayer Is the Most Important Part of a Proper Fast
Prayer serves as the foundation of an important fast, grounding followers in the presence of God and fostering a deep connection. It promotes modesty, ensuring that one’s desires are in harmony with God’s plan, and encourages a deep understanding and rejuvenation of the spirit.
Through prayer, fasting goes beyond just refraining from certain foods, evolving into a deep spiritual quest and a closer bond with the divine.
It creates opportunities for conversation, asking for favors, and expressing thanks, enriching the bond with God. In prayer, people give up their worries, looking for insight, courage, and moments of revelation.
Therefore, while fasting is a way to discipline the physical self, prayer is the important element that feeds the spirit, making it the true essence of a meaningful fast.
A Word From GetMe Treated
By adopting the practice of fasting and looking to the Bible for inspiration, you can undergo a spiritual rejuvenation, receive God’s assistance, and achieve important progress in your life.
RELATED: What If You Pray And Nothing Happens
As you begin your fasting path, may you be fortified by the strength of prayer, belief, and God’s constant affection. Amen!
How To Fast And Pray According To The Bible FAQs
How long should I fast according to the Bible?
The length of time spent fasting is different in the Bible, going from just one day to up to forty days. Look to the Bible for advice and talk to spiritual guides for individual insight.
What should I abstain from during a fast?
Religiously, fasting typically means not eating, but it can also encompass other types of self-restraints, like avoiding movies or social media, to concentrate on prayer and spiritual development.
Can I drink water while fasting?
Yes, it’s okay to consume water while fasting to keep the body hydrated and help with its various processes. Nonetheless, it’s advisable to seek advice from a medical expert if you have any health issues.
How do I prepare for a fast?
Prepare for a fast by setting aside time for prayer, repentance, and seeking God’s guidance. Gradually reduce food intake before the fast to ease the transition.
Should I announce my fast to others?
The Bible advises discretion when fasting, encouraging humility and sincerity. While sharing with a trusted spiritual mentor or community can provide support, avoid seeking attention or recognition.
What should I pray for during a fast?
Pray for spiritual growth, guidance, healing, repentance, and breakthroughs in areas of need. Use the fasting period to deepen your relationship with God and seek His will.
How do I break a fast according to biblical principles?
Break a fast gradually with simple, nourishing foods to avoid overwhelming the digestive system. Use the opportunity to express gratitude and continue in prayer.