Types of Fasts

There are several types of fasts, but in this post I am specifically talking about spiritual or biblical fasting. A simple search for “fast or fasting” on the internet will provide a multitude of results with mixed information. It is important to note that spiritual/biblical fasting is a discipline that is between you and God. When you are first starting out, it is easy to think that the more intense your fast is, the more spiritual you will be. Unfortunately, that is not the case. At the end of the day God will honor whatever sacrifice you make, just be sure to make it your best sacrifice! In the Old Testament, fasting was considered as a way of humbling yourself before the Lord. In the New Testament it was a way to focus more on God and grow closer to Him. Today, some choose to fast from “things” such as social media and/or television. While that is a good approach when you are learning to fast, the truth is as we fast we should begin cutting those things out in order to consecrate ourselves for God. (Consecration is the practice of setting oneself apart, to make holy/ dedicate yourself to worshipping God. More on this in another post..) I have learned that when I pair fasting from food with fasting from television, social media, news etc.. it helps to cut out distractions and allows me to focus on hearing from God. Below is a list of the different types of fasts and a little more information about them. Each of the fasts have been taken directly from the bible. Full Fast – You drink only liquids (the length of time is determined by you and God).Partial Fast – A Partial Fast is done from sunup to sundown or a specific time frame, i.e. 6am to 6pm. This can be done as a full fast, Daniel fast or you give up at least one food item.Daniel Fast – You only eat fruit, vegetables, and anything that comes from a seed, as well as you drink only water and 100% juice (no sugar added). See More.3 Day Fast – This can be a full fast, a Daniel fast or you can choose to give up one food item. The decision as to what type of fast you should do is between you and God. Choosing a fast should be based off of your personal circumstances and convictions. As I said earlier, it does not matter what you choose, God will honor your sacrifice! This is a personal decision and you should prayerfully consider it based on your own circumstances.

Related posts:
Why should I fast? What is it?
The Daniel Fast: Food List
Cultivating Spiritual Hunger