How does the Bible instruct us to fast?

Fasting is a spiritual discipline that has been practiced by believers throughout the history of the Christian faith. It is a voluntary abstinence from food, drink, or other regular activities for a period of time to seek a deeper connection with God, seek guidance, or express repentance. The Bible provides various instructions and examples of fasting, offering a comprehensive understanding of its purpose, methods, and spiritual significance.

In the Old Testament, fasting was often associated with mourning, repentance, and seeking God's favor. For example, in the book of Joel, the prophet calls the people to a sacred fast, urging them to return to God with all their hearts, with fasting, weeping, and mourning (Joel 2:12-13). This passage highlights the importance of fasting as an expression of sincere repentance and a desire to return to God.

Another notable example is found in the book of Esther. When Queen Esther learned of the plot to annihilate the Jewish people, she called for a fast among all the Jews in Susa. She and her attendants also fasted for three days and nights before she approached the king to plead for her people (Esther 4:15-17). This fast was a collective act of seeking God's intervention and favor in a time of great peril.

In the New Testament, Jesus himself fasted for forty days and forty nights in the wilderness before beginning his public ministry (Matthew 4:1-11). This period of fasting was a time of preparation and spiritual strengthening, where Jesus resisted the temptations of Satan and affirmed his reliance on God's word. Jesus' example underscores the significance of fasting as a means of spiritual preparation and empowerment.

Jesus also provided specific instructions on how to fast in the Sermon on the Mount. In Matthew 6:16-18, he said:

"When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you."

From this teaching, we learn several important principles about fasting. First, Jesus assumes that his followers will fast ("when you fast"), indicating that fasting is a normal and expected part of the Christian life. Second, he warns against fasting for the sake of outward appearance or to gain the approval of others. Instead, fasting should be a private and sincere act of devotion to God. The emphasis is on the inward spiritual condition rather than external displays.

Fasting is also mentioned in the context of seeking God's direction and guidance. In the book of Acts, we see the early church engaging in fasting and prayer when making important decisions. For example, in Acts 13:2-3, the church in Antioch fasted and prayed before commissioning Barnabas and Saul (Paul) for their missionary journey. Similarly, in Acts 14:23, Paul and Barnabas appointed elders in the churches they established, with prayer and fasting, committing them to the Lord.

The purpose of fasting is not to manipulate God or earn his favor through self-denial. Rather, it is a means of humbling ourselves before God, acknowledging our dependence on him, and seeking a deeper relationship with him. Fasting helps us to focus our hearts and minds on God, setting aside distractions and allowing us to hear his voice more clearly.

It is important to approach fasting with the right attitude and motivation. Isaiah 58 provides a powerful critique of improper fasting and highlights the kind of fasting that pleases God. The prophet Isaiah addresses the people who fasted for selfish reasons and yet continued to oppress others and engage in injustice. He declares:

"Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke? Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter—when you see the naked, to clothe them, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?" (Isaiah 58:6-7)

This passage emphasizes that true fasting is not merely about abstaining from food, but about aligning our actions with God's heart for justice, mercy, and compassion. It calls us to a holistic approach to fasting that includes caring for the needs of others and living out God's love in practical ways.

In addition to food, fasting can also involve abstaining from other activities or comforts that may distract us from our relationship with God. For example, some people choose to fast from social media, entertainment, or other forms of consumption that can become idols in their lives. The key is to identify what may be hindering our spiritual growth and to intentionally set it aside for a period of focused prayer and seeking God.

Fasting should always be accompanied by prayer and meditation on God's word. It is not merely an act of self-denial, but a time to draw near to God, listen to his voice, and align our hearts with his will. As we fast and pray, we invite the Holy Spirit to work in us, transforming our desires and renewing our minds.

It is also important to consider our physical health and limitations when fasting. Extended periods of fasting from food should be approached with caution, and it may be wise to consult with a healthcare professional, especially for those with medical conditions. Fasting is not about harming our bodies, but about disciplining ourselves for the purpose of godliness (1 Timothy 4:7-8).

In summary, the Bible instructs us to fast as a means of humbling ourselves before God, seeking his guidance, expressing repentance, and deepening our relationship with him. Fasting should be done with sincerity, humility, and a focus on God's presence and purposes. It is a powerful spiritual discipline that, when practiced with the right heart and attitude, can lead to profound spiritual growth and transformation.

As we consider incorporating fasting into our spiritual practices, let us remember the words of Jesus and the examples of the faithful throughout Scripture. Let us fast with a heart that seeks God above all else, trusting that he will reward our sincere devotion and draw us closer to himself.