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SCRIPTURE ON FASTING:
Matthew 6:16-18
“And when you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, that your fasting may not be seen by others but by your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.”
Daniel 10:3
3 I ate no choice food; no meat or wine touched my lips; and I used no lotions at all until the three weeks were over.
Joel 2:12
“Yet even now,” declares the Lord, “return to me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning;
TYPES OF BIBLICAL FASTS:
TOTAL FAST
A total fast is abstaining from all solid food for a certain period of time. We see this done throughout the Bible for different increments of time.
PARTIAL FAST
A partial fast is abstaining from certain types of food. The Daniel Fast is an example of this, which comes from the book of Daniel 10 when Daniel went three weeks with "no choice food." Daniel had no meat for the 21 days - he only ate Fruits, Vegetables, and Nuts, and drank water.
Another example of a partial fast would be eliminating one or two meals from your day. Some only eat dinner, some only eat lunch.
MEDIA FAST?
Let's go ahead and get this one out of the way. While giving up social media and turning off the TV for a period of time is absolutely important, it's not Biblical fasting. It's consecration! Giving up social media is, however, a great thing to do alongside a fast as you give your total focus to the Lord.
PRACTICAL TIPS:
Prepare beforehand.
Take time before the fast begins to be with the Lord. Oftentimes, the Lord will bring up an area that you need to pray towards while you're fasting. He will reveal any sin that's hidden in your heart that needs to be repented of.
Pray.
This one is a given, right? Still gotta be sure to mention it! If you're going to fast, but not spend time in prayer, then you're merely starving yourself. That sounds pretty miserable. But, when you fast and pray, buckle up and get ready! God's gonna do something amazing.
Involve your kids!
In the evenings or at night, sit down with your family and talk about what God is doing. Parents, teach your kids the discipline of fasting and God's heart for it. Spend time in prayer with your family each day of the fast. You'll be amazed at what God does in your home!
Drink lots of Water.
When going without food for a period of time, drinking water is super important to help flush toxins out of your body. Drink lots of it!
Remember the why.
In the time of fasting, don't become too focused on the food aspect. Many talk about how hungry they are the whole time, and how they can't wait to eat again. In this time, remember why you're doing it and cherish each second. God is moving!
Begin your day with the Lord.
This sets the tone for the day and is starts it off right. Beginning each day in the Word of God also gives you Scripture to meditate on throughout the day.
Get your rest.
Resting well will also help as your body undergoes the fast.
FASTING FAQ's:
Do I tell people I'm fasting?
It's about the heart. If you're wanting approval, affirmation, and praise, then you should re-evaluate and shift your perspective before beginning. However, it's natural that some people should know you're fasting - for example, your spouse. However, when out and about, it's Biblical (Matthew 6:16) to keep your fasting as secret as you can. You're fasting unto the Lord, not anyone else. Don't draw attention to yourself by talking about your hunger, grumbling about how you wish you could eat, etc. You get the point.
Why should I fast?
well, number one, it's Biblical. It's a discipline that must be a part of the Christian life (Matthew 6:16). Second, fasting puts your flesh under submission (which often tries to rise up and take charge) and then you're able to be led by the Spirit of God.
Here are some other reasons we fast:
1. to Know God more.
2. For direction.
3. To humble oneself.
4. To separate from the hold that the world gains on you.
5. For deliverance.
FINAL ENCOURAGEMENT:
We are praying for you! This time is going to be so special throughout this entire year. We're so thankful you're on the journey with us. The best is ahead!