Step-by-Step Guide to Fasting as a Christian

Step 1: Understand the Purpose of Fasting

Explanation: Fasting is a spiritual discipline that involves abstaining from food (or other activities) for a period to focus on prayer, seek God’s guidance, or express repentance. It’s a way to humble ourselves before God, draw closer to Him, and demonstrate our dependence on His strength and provision.

Scripture Reference:

• Matthew 6:16-18 – “When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do… 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.”

Step 2: Prepare Spiritually and Physically

Explanation: Before starting your fast, spend time in prayer, asking God for guidance, strength, and a clear purpose for your fast. Decide the type of fast (e.g., water-only, juice fast, partial fast like Daniel fast). Physically, gradually reduce your food intake to prepare your body, especially if you plan a longer fast.

Scripture Reference:

• Ezra 8:21-23 – “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… So we fasted and petitioned our God about this, and he answered our prayer.”

Step 3: Set Clear Objectives

Explanation: Determine the reasons for your fast. Are you seeking spiritual renewal, guidance for a decision, healing, or interceding for others? Having clear objectives will help you stay focused and motivated during the fast.

Scripture Reference:

• Acts 13:2-3 – “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.”

Step 4: Plan Your Fast

Explanation: Decide the duration and type of your fast. It could be a one-day fast, a three-day fast, a week-long fast, or even longer. Choose the type of fast: complete abstention from food, partial fast (e.g., only eating fruits and vegetables), or skipping specific meals.

Scripture Reference:

• Daniel 1:12 – “Please test your servants for ten days: Give us nothing but vegetables to eat and water to drink.”

Step 5: Create a Prayer Schedule

Explanation: Fasting should be accompanied by increased prayer and meditation on God’s Word. Set specific times throughout the day to pray, read the Bible, and reflect on God’s promises and truths. This helps maintain your focus on the spiritual aspects of the fast.

Scripture Reference:

• Psalm 119:164 – “Seven times a day I praise you for your righteous laws.”

Step 6: Begin Your Fast with a Positive Attitude

Explanation: Start your fast with a positive and expectant heart. Trust that God will meet you in your time of fasting and prayer. Keep your focus on God rather than on the physical discomforts you might experience.

Scripture Reference:

• Matthew 4:2 – “After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry.”

Step 7: Stay Hydrated and Listen to Your Body

Explanation: If you are doing a complete or partial fast, ensure you drink plenty of water. Pay attention to how your body is responding. If you feel weak or dizzy, it might be wise to modify your fast. Fasting should not harm your health.

Step 8: Engage in Spiritual Activities

Explanation: Use the time you would typically spend eating to engage in spiritual activities. Pray, worship, read the Bible, journal your thoughts and prayers, and meditate on Scripture. This is the essence of fasting—drawing closer to God.

Scripture Reference:

• Isaiah 58:6-7 – “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?”

Step 9: Maintain a Spirit of Prayer and Reflection

Explanation: Throughout your fast, maintain an attitude of prayer and reflection. Be open to what God is speaking to you. Journal any insights or revelations you receive during this time.

Step 10: Break the Fast Gradually

Explanation: When ending your fast, do so gradually. Start with light foods such as fruits or soups before returning to your regular diet. This helps your body adjust and prevents any digestive issues.

Scripture Reference:

• 1 Samuel 30:12 – “They gave him a piece of pressed figs and two clusters of raisins. He ate and was revived, for he had not eaten any food or drunk any water for three days and three nights.”

Step 11: Reflect and Apply Lessons Learned

Explanation: After your fast, take time to reflect on your experience. What did God reveal to you? How have you grown spiritually? Consider how you can apply the insights and lessons learned to your daily life.

Scripture Reference:

• Isaiah 58:8-9 – “Then your light will break forth like the dawn, and your healing will quickly appear; then your righteousness will go before you, and the glory of the Lord will be your rear guard. Then you will call, and the Lord will answer; you will cry for help, and he will say: Here am I.”

Conclusion:

Fasting is a powerful spiritual discipline that can deepen your relationship with God, provide clarity and guidance, and foster spiritual growth. By following these steps, you can embark on a meaningful fast, drawing closer to God and experiencing His presence in profound ways. Remember, the focus of fasting is not on the abstention itself but on seeking God and aligning your heart with His purposes. May your fasting journey be blessed and fruitful.

Amen.