You’re probably like most Christians who hardly ever fast. It’s not because we haven’t read our Bibles, listened to good sermons, or learned about the benefits of fasting.
It’s not even that we don’t want to give it a try. It’s just that, well, we never quite get around to putting down the fork.
It could be because we’re surrounded by food all the time in our society. We eat not only when we’re hungry, but sometimes even when we’re not.
We eat to connect with others over a meal, which is a great thing, or to bond and strengthen relationships. And sometimes, let’s be honest, we eat just to avoid dealing with our responsibilities.
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Plus, there are also our cravings and the desire for comfort that make it hard to endure the discomfort of fasting.
Not So Fast
Fasting is when we choose to go without food or any other good thing from God, all for a spiritual reason. It’s pretty against the norm in our society, kind of like saving intercourse for marriage.
If we want to understand fasting and its benefits, we won’t find it by following society’s trends. Instead, we need to dig into our Bibles.
Then, it’s not a question of “if” we fast, but “when.” Jesus expects his followers to fast, and he even guarantees it. He doesn’t say, “Maybe you’ll fast,” but “You will fast.”
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We fast now because we believe in what’s to come. We don’t have to grasp everything in this life because we’re promised it all in the future.
We give up what we can see and taste because we’ve already experienced the goodness of God, and we’re longing for more of him.
Radical, Temporary Measure
Fasting serves a purpose in this life. It helps us expand our hearts beyond the struggles and difficulties we face.
It’s also a tool in our fight against our own weaknesses and sinful tendencies. Through fasting, we show our dissatisfaction with our sinful nature and our desire for a deeper connection with Christ.
In a world where consumerism reigns, fasting stands out as something quite different. It’s akin to choosing to wait until marriage for sex, going against the cultural norm.
When Jesus comes back, fasting won’t be necessary anymore. It’s just a temporary thing for this life, meant to make our joy in Jesus even deeper and get us ready to see him in person someday.
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When he does come back, there won’t be any need for fasting. Instead, it’ll be time to celebrate with a big feast. Then, everyone will see how fasting was a wonderful gift that helped us prepare for that amazing moment.
Until then, we will fast…
How To Fast And Pray For A Breakthrough
Fasting can be tough. It seems straightforward, but when we try it, we often realize how challenging it can be.
Skipping a meal can leave us feeling uneasy, and many times, our hunger drives us to eat more before the next mealtime arrives.
Despite its simplicity in theory, fasting is often thwarted by obstacles from the world around us, our desires, and even spiritual influences.
To help you ease into the practice of fasting, here are six straightforward tips. While they may seem basic, they’re meant to assist those who are new to fasting or haven’t given it much thought before.
1. Start small
If you’re not used to fasting, it’s best not to dive straight into a weeklong fast. Begin by skipping just one meal; maybe try fasting from one meal a week for a few weeks.
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Then, gradually increase to skipping two meals, and eventually, aim for a full day without eating. If you feel ready, you could even consider attempting a two-day juice fast down the road.
During a juice fast, you only consume juice and water, avoiding all other foods and beverages.
Drinking juice provides your body with essential nutrients and sugars to keep you going, while still allowing you to experience the effects of fasting from solid foods.
Remember, it’s important to stay hydrated, so make sure to drink plenty of water throughout your fast. It’s never recommended to abstain from water during any length of fasting.
2. Think about what you’ll do instead of eating
Fasting isn’t just about giving something up; it’s a way to deepen our connection with God. That means we should think about how to use the time we’d normally spend eating in a meaningful way.
Since we spend a good chunk of our day around food, fasting gives us a unique opportunity to dedicate that time to prayer, reflecting on God’s word, or doing something kind for others.
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Before you start fasting, take a moment to create a simple plan. Connect it to why you’re fasting in the first place. Each fast should have a specific spiritual goal.
Figure out what yours is, and then come up with a focus to fill the time you’d usually spend eating. Without a clear purpose and plan, it’s not Christian fasting; it’s just going hungry.
3. Think about how your fasting might affect other people
When you’re fasting, it’s important to remember to still be loving and considerate towards others. It would be unfortunate if we became so focused on our spiritual journey that we neglected to show care and concern for those around us. Loving God and loving our neighbors go hand in hand.
A good fast balances our devotion to God with our relationships with others. If anything, our fasting should make others feel even more loved and cared for.
As you plan your fast, think about how it might affect the people in your life. If you usually have meals with colleagues, family, or roommates, consider how your decision to abstain will impact them.
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It’s better to let them know ahead of time rather than surprising them by not showing up or suddenly announcing that you won’t be eating.
Here’s another perspective on fasting: If you normally eat with a specific group of friends or family regularly and those plans get disrupted due to someone’s absence, like travel or other circumstances, see it as an opportunity to fast instead of eating alone.
4. Experiment with various types of fasting
Fasting comes in many shapes and sizes. While the typical form is often personal, and private, and involves abstaining from certain foods, the Bible shows us a range of fasting practices.
Some are personal or communal, private or public, and they can happen regularly or on special occasions. They might involve giving up all food or just certain types.
Consider fasting alongside your family, small group, or church community. Are you facing a particular challenge where you need God’s wisdom and guidance? Is there a pressing issue in your church or society that requires divine intervention?
Or maybe you want to focus on the second coming of Christ? By fasting together with other believers, you can join forces in earnest prayer and seek God’s help for these concerns.
5. Try abstaining from something other than food for some time
Going without food for a while isn’t suitable for everyone. Some health problems can make it impossible for even the most committed people to stick to that usual routine.
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But fasting isn’t just about skipping meals. As Martyn Lloyd-Jones said, it’s also about giving up anything that’s normally OKAY to focus on a specific spiritual aim.
If it’s not wise for you, given your health condition, to go without food, you might want to try fasting from other things like TV, computer, social media, or any other usual pleasure that could help you focus more on Jesus.
In the book of 1 Corinthians 7:5 “Defraud ye, not one the other, except it be with consent for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency”
6. Don’t think of white elephants
When hunger strikes and your stomach starts demanding food, don’t just focus on the fact that you haven’t eaten.
Even if you resist the urge to eat with sheer determination, if you don’t redirect your thoughts elsewhere, it reveals more about your attachment to food than your devotion to God.
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In Christian fasting, the focus shifts to Jesus or some important cause related to Him. Instead of fixating on the hunger pangs, Christian fasting aims to channel them towards a greater purpose, whether it’s combating sin, praying for someone’s salvation, advocating for the unborn, or simply craving a deeper connection with Jesus.
How To Fast And Pray For A Breakthrough FAQs
How long should I fast for a breakthrough?
The duration of a fast can vary based on personal preference and health factors but commonly ranges from one day to 40 days.
What should I pray for during a fast?
Pray for guidance, clarity, strength, and the specific breakthrough you’re seeking, whether it’s in relationships, finances, health, or spiritual growth.
Can I drink water during a fast?
Yes, staying hydrated is important. Water, herbal tea, and clear broth are allowed during a fast.
How do I prepare for a fast?
Start by setting your intention and seeking God’s guidance. Gradually reduce caffeine, sugar, and processed foods leading up to the fast.
What should I do during the fast?
Spend extra time in prayer, meditation, reading the words of God, and any spiritual texts or books. Reflect on your goals and ask for God’s strength to persevere.
How do I break a fast safely?
Break your fast gradually with light, easily digestible foods like fruits, vegetables, and soups. Avoid heavy meals to prevent stomach upset.
What if I struggle during the fast?
It’s normal to face challenges during a fast. Stay focused on your purpose, lean on your faith for strength, and don’t hesitate to seek support from fellow believers or spiritual leaders.