Fasting

FASTING is a tool that from time to time helps Christians to strengthen their focus on right priorities in Christ.  It is abstaining from food for a period of time.  There is no specific length of time required.  It could be for one or more meals, or for one or more days.

A purpose of FASTING is to assist in clearing our thoughts of distractions that interfere, even so slightly, from the important issues at hand.  It is to be done personally, without making a show to others.  It is to be done willingly, not out of compulsion from others.  It is ALWAYS to be accompanied by personal attentive prayer.

Generally, FASTING does not involve more than just oneself.  However, a husband and wife may choose to fast and pray together seeking God’s will over a difficult issue.  The key to effective FASTING when joined by others is for all to stay focused on the concern at hand while diligently praying for insight from God.  FASTING seems to produce a special supernatural blessing for a Christian and draws him or her closer to God.

16Moreover, when you FAST, do not be like the hypocrites, with a sad countenance . For they disfigure their faces that they may appear to men to be FASTING. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward.  17But you, when you FAST, anoint your head and wash your face, 18so that you do not appear to men to be FASTING, but to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.(Matt 6:16-18).