Biblical fasting is a voluntary abstinence from food (or other things) for a set time to seek God more intentionally. Throughout Scripture, fasting is tied to prayer, repentance, and deepening one's relationship with God.
Jesus Himself fasted (Matthew 4:2), and He taught that fasting should be done humbly, not for show (Matthew 6:16-18). In the Old and New Testaments, God's people fasted for guidance (Ezra 8:23), repentance (Joel 2:12), and spiritual breakthrough (Acts 13:2-3).
Fasting isn't just about going without food; it's about replacing physical dependence with spiritual hunger for God. Whether through a complete fast, a partial fast (Daniel 10:3), or abstaining from distractions, biblical fasting is a way to draw closer to God, seeking His will with a surrendered heart.
"When you fast..." (Matthew 6:16) — Jesus’ words remind us that fasting is expected, not optional, for believers seeking a deeper walk with Him. So, as you prepare for a fast there are a few things to focus on.
First, why am I fasting? We do not just fast to fit in, we fast for specific reasons. Maybe you are praying for a friend or loved one. Maybe you are struggling with a sin and are seeking a deeper level of dependency on God. Maybe you just want to be closer to God. When you fast, don't sit and think about what you no longer have or hunger, but let the desire for what you have given up remind you to stop and pray.
Second, be humble and go about your life as normal. Don't tell everyone about your fast, or sit around being sick because you did fast. Act as if nothing is happening, keep it between you and God.
Third, know when to quit. Determine a start and stop time and then fast. During the fast pray when you crave what you have put away, and when the fast is done be done.
May God Bless you as you fast this Easter Season