Why should I fast? What is it?

“Therefore also now, saith the LORD, turn ye [even] to me with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning:” Joel 2:12 KJV Fasting is something we may hear often, but tend to know little about. In the medical community, it is often said we should fast prior to a major surgery or routine lab work. In dieting we hear about intermittent fasting to tame our cravings and lose weight. But what does it mean to go on a spiritual fast? Spiritual fasting is a discipline. It is something that as a Christian is not only needed, but also expected. In Matthew 6:16, Jesus states in his instructions, “Moreover when ye fast,..” This phrase alone, lets us know that not only is fasting important, but it is also expected of us. When we decide to go on a spiritual fast, as Christians, we are saying that we are willing to deny our flesh of the things it desires in order to get an answer from God. This is why it is important to seek the Lord in prayer and let Him show you what is important for you to focus on during your time of prayer and fasting. I always recommend that you make a list of the questions you would like to place before God before you begin the fast. Also, it is a good idea to determine the length and type of fast at the very beginning as well. This helps to keep you from wavering throughout the fast if you have a bad day, and it also helps you to focus on what is important for you. Praying, fasting and seeking God at the very start of the year will only help you set the tone for the rest of the year. When we give God our first instead of our last, he blesses us even more! He promises that when we make Him the priority in our lives he will bless us…how great is that? Making the decision to fast may be one of the best decisions you can make in your spiritual journey. May God bless you, no matter what you decide!

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