Guide

New to Fasting?

Why Fast?

Fasting is a spiritual tool or discipline that The Lord uses to draw us closer to Him.

Again, here’s what we know: what we eat will not bring us closer to God – we gain nothing in feasting and lose nothing by fasting. I Corinthians 8:8 (The Voice)

Jesus answered, “It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.” Matthew 4:3 (ESV)

Jesus Fasted

Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. And after fasting forty days and forty nights, He was hungry.  Matthew 4:1-2 (ESV)

Can I Fast?

With that announcement, the people of Nineveh started to trust in Jonah’s God! Every person- whether young or old, rich or poor, male or female – fasted and wore a sack as a sign of remorse for his past wickedness.  Jonah 3:5 (The Voice)

The google generation

According to google

  • Fasting was an expected discipline in both the Old and New Testament eras
  • Fasting is a biblical way to truly humble yourself in the sight of God.
  • Fasting enables the Holy Spirit to reveal your true spiritual condition, resulting in brokenness, repentance and a transformed life.

Even now – this is the Lord’s declaration – turn to Me with all your heart, with fasting, weeping and mourning. Joel 2:12 (HCSB)

Fasting helps us becomes sensitive to the Holy Spirit

When we deny ourselves of natural cravings and worldly distractions, we become more sensitive to the Holy Spirit.  We intentionally choose to focus on God, His Word and become submissive to His will.

As they were ministering to The Lord as fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for Me Barnabas and Saul for the work I have called them to.” Then after they had fasted, prayed and laid hands on them, they sent them off.  Acts 13:2-3 (HCSB)

Fasting is healthy

Fasting cleanses your digestive systems from toxins.  The discipline of fasting helps break unhealthy addictions in our lives.

Disclaimer: Fasting is a personal decision that should be made at the discretion of the individual. If you have health concerns, or are under the care of a physician, we encourage you to consult with your medical professional prior to committing to fast.

Types of Fasting

  • Complete/Absolute Fast: no food or water
  • Water Fast: Intake water only
  • Daniel/Plant-Based Fast
  • Partial Fast
  • Intermittent Fast
  • Other: Technology, Social Media, Distractions

What can I expect from fasting?

Physically

  • Tears/Emotions
  • Withdrawal Headaches (sugar/caffeine)

Emotionally

  • Hearing more clearly from The Spirit
  • Fresh/Clear revelation from The Word
  • Maybe some Spiritual Warfare