Scripture reveals that fasting is a spiritual discipline that humbles us before God, aligns our hearts with His purposes, and positions us to receive His power and blessing.
Scripture on Fasting
Matthew 6:16-18
New Testament
"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."
Isaiah 58:6-7
Old Testament
"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?"
Acts 13:2-3
New Testament
"While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, 'Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.' So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off."
Ezra 8:21
Old Testament
"There, by the Ahava Canal, I proclaimed a fast, so that we might humble ourselves before our God and ask him for a safe journey for us and our children, with all our possessions."
Joel 2:12-13
Old Testament
"'Even now,' declares the Lord, 'return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning.' Rend your heart and not your garments. Return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love."
The Bottom Line
Fasting is an invitation to draw near to God with our whole hearts, to find in Him the deepest satisfaction our souls crave.
Try Today
Set aside a time to fast and pray, inviting God to humble your heart, reveal His will, and empower you to serve Him more faithfully.
Prayer
As Jesus said, 'When you fast...' (Matthew 6:16),
Heavenly Father, we come to You with open hearts, longing to know You more deeply. Grant us the grace to humble ourselves before You, to turn from our selfish ways, and to seek Your will above all else. In our fasting, may we find our deepest joy and satisfaction in You alone. Fill us with Your Spirit, empower us for Your purposes, and use us to bring glory to Your name. In Jesus' name, Amen.
📚 Read the book of Daniel to see a powerful example of how fasting can unlock divine wisdom and intervention.
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