What is fasting according to the Bible?

Fasting, according to the Bible, is a spiritual discipline that involves abstaining from food, and sometimes drink, for a specified period. This practice is deeply rooted in biblical tradition and has been employed by individuals and communities as a means of seeking God, expressing repentance, and intensifying prayer. While the concept of fasting may seem foreign or even daunting to some, it is a powerful tool for spiritual growth and intimacy with God.

The biblical foundation for fasting can be found throughout both the Old and New Testaments. One of the earliest references to fasting is in the book of Exodus, where Moses fasted for forty days and forty nights on Mount Sinai as he received the Ten Commandments from God (Exodus 34:28). This period of fasting was marked by a profound encounter with God, highlighting the connection between fasting and divine revelation.

In the Old Testament, fasting was often associated with mourning, repentance, and seeking God's intervention in times of crisis. For example, in the book of Esther, Queen Esther called for a three-day fast among the Jewish people as they faced the threat of annihilation (Esther 4:16). This act of communal fasting was a demonstration of their collective dependence on God and their earnest plea for His deliverance.

The prophet Joel also called for a fast in response to a devastating locust plague, urging the people to "return to the Lord with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning" (Joel 2:12). Here, fasting is portrayed as an integral part of genuine repentance and a means of seeking God's mercy and restoration.

In the New Testament, fasting continues to hold significant spiritual importance. Jesus Himself fasted for forty days and forty nights in the wilderness before beginning His public ministry (Matthew 4:1-2). This period of fasting was a time of preparation, testing, and spiritual fortification. Jesus' example underscores the value of fasting as a way to draw closer to God and to be strengthened for the work He has called us to do.

Moreover, Jesus taught about fasting in the Sermon on the Mount, emphasizing the importance of sincerity and humility in this practice. He instructed His followers, "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" (Matthew 6:16-18).

From this teaching, it is clear that fasting is not meant to be a public display of piety but a private act of devotion between the individual and God. The focus should be on the inner spiritual transformation rather than outward appearances. Jesus' words also indicate that fasting is expected of His followers, as He says, "When you fast," not "If you fast."

The early church continued the practice of fasting, often in conjunction with prayer, as they sought God's guidance and empowerment. In the book of Acts, we see examples of the church fasting before making significant decisions, such as the commissioning of Paul and Barnabas for missionary work (Acts 13:2-3) and the appointment of elders in the churches (Acts 14:23). These instances demonstrate that fasting was a regular part of the spiritual life of the early Christian community.

Fasting, therefore, is not merely an act of self-denial but a means of aligning oneself with God's will and purposes. It is a way to humble oneself before God, to seek His face, and to draw nearer to Him. The physical hunger experienced during a fast serves as a reminder of our deeper spiritual hunger for God and our dependence on Him for sustenance and strength.

In addition to abstaining from food, fasting can also involve refraining from other activities or distractions that may hinder our focus on God. This could include fasting from media, social activities, or other forms of entertainment. The goal is to create space in our lives to listen to God's voice, to pray more fervently, and to cultivate a deeper relationship with Him.

While fasting is a powerful spiritual discipline, it is important to approach it with the right heart and motives. Fasting should not be done out of a sense of obligation, to earn God's favor, or to impress others. Instead, it should be motivated by a genuine desire to seek God, to repent of sin, and to grow in holiness. As the prophet Isaiah reminds us, true fasting is not just about abstaining from food but about living a life of righteousness and justice: "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).

In summary, fasting according to the Bible is a multifaceted spiritual discipline that involves abstaining from food or other distractions as a means of seeking God, expressing repentance, and intensifying prayer. It has deep roots in biblical tradition and has been practiced by individuals and communities throughout the history of God's people. Fasting is not about outward appearances or earning God's favor but about humbling oneself before God, seeking His will, and drawing nearer to Him. As we engage in fasting with the right heart and motives, we open ourselves to experiencing God's presence, guidance, and transformative power in our lives.