Fasting and Prayer
Resource Page

Fasting is not eating
for spiritual focus.

- Steven Gibbs

Matthew 6:16-18

 

    1. And when you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, that your fasting may not be seen by others but by your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.
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    How to Fast

     

    1. 1. Decide when you’re going to fast and for how long and mark it on your calendar (It could be sun up to sun down for one day, it could be fasting until dinner for a week, a 21 day fast, a 40 day fast, etc, or any combination of those
    2. 2. Go about your normal life! Jesus says that fasting is done in secret for our Father who sees in secret (Matthew 6:17-18). You can still workout, go to work, go to your kids extracurricular activities – it’s just all done with increased dependence on God for strength
    3. 3. When you are tempted to eat or snack, or when you would normally eat your meals, dedicate that time to prayer and scripture and recommit your spirit to Him! Remember, fasting as a spiritual discipline is different than a diet – without prayer, scripture, or worship it becomes more about you and your body rather than your dependence on God.

     

     

     

    FAQ

     

    What if I’m pregnant/have preexisting health conditions?

     

    • If you’re worried about your health, always consult your doctor before participating in a fast. Pregnancy or preexisting health conditions are serious and need to be treated as such! If you can’t participate in a fast, consider other alternatives such as abstaining from a certain kind of food, or abstaining from caffeine, social media, etc. Remember – the point is increased dependence on God!
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    Can I drink coffee?

    • A general rule of thumb is consuming zero calories during a fast. This means that you can have coffee, tea, water as long as there are no additives that have the potential to spike your blood sugar. It is also a good idea to skip on sugar free sodas and things of that nature as they are generally a part of a normal diet!
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    What about working out?

    • Fasted workouts are safe! If you feel as though you don’t have enough energy or feel weak or dizzy, it might be a good idea to either skip your workout, lessen the intensity, or move your workout to earlier in the day rather than in the afternoon/evening.

     

    Can I drink smoothies?

    • No! Even though you’re drinking it, a smoothie is just blended food and still satiates your desire for food – even if it's just temporary.

     

    What if I’m served a meal during my fast?

    • We get it, you don’t want to be rude but you also still want to be obedient to God. This scenario will probably come up, especially if you’re going about your normal life. To avoid this kind of situation, plan your meetings so they don’t fall around meal times, but if it is unavoidable you can politely decline with as little explanation as possible. (Remember what Jesus said about fasting in secret). If they insist, you can use the opportunity then to explain the fast and share your faith with them.
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    What happens if I forget to pray during my fast?

    • God still honors your obedience and your intention. However, if you are using your hunger as an alarm for prayer, it will be hard to forget to pray.
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    How do I end my fast?

    • After you have completed your desired amount of time for your fast – whether it be intermittent or until sundown – it is a good idea to reflect on how you experienced God during the day and to thank Him for giving Him the strength. Ending your fast is a great opportunity for prayer and worship before enjoying a meal!

     

     

    Resources

     

    Moving Mountains: Praying with Passion, Confidence, and Authority by John Eldredge

     

    A Diary of Private Prayer by John Baillie 

     

    Practicing the Way: Be with Jesus. Become like him. Do as he did. by John Mark Comer

     

    Fasting 01: To offer ourselves to God

     

    Fasting 02: To grow in holiness

     

    Fasting 03: To amplify our prayers

     

    Fasting 04: To stand with the poor