Fasting is the voluntary abstaining from food (or sometimes other things) for a spiritual purpose. Throughout the Bible, fasting is connected with prayer, repentance, seeking God's guidance, and expressing dependence on Him rather than on physical sustenance.

Fasting in the Old Testament

Moses fasted for 40 days on Mount Sinai (Exodus 34:28). The people of Nineveh fasted in response to Jonah's preaching (Jonah 3:5). King Jehoshaphat called a national fast when Judah faced a great army (2 Chronicles 20:3).

Jesus and Fasting

Jesus fasted 40 days in the wilderness before beginning His public ministry (Matthew 4:1-2). Importantly, when He taught about fasting in Matthew 6:16-18, He said "when you fast," not "if you fast," implying that fasting would be a normal part of His followers' spiritual lives. The early church practiced fasting as well. The believers in Antioch fasted and prayed before sending out Paul and Barnabas on their missionary journey (Acts 13:2-3). Paul and Barnabas appointed elders in each church with prayer and fasting (Acts 14:23).

Purposes of Fasting

Intensifying prayer. Fasting demonstrates earnestness and focuses the heart and mind on seeking God. Expressing repentance. In times of conviction, fasting accompanies turning back to God with a humble heart. Seeking guidance. When facing major decisions, fasting helps quiet distractions and sharpen spiritual sensitivity. Declaring dependence on God. By setting aside physical nourishment, we declare that God alone is our ultimate source of strength.

A Warning About Empty Ritual

Fasting should always be paired with genuine heart devotion. Isaiah 58:3-7 warns against fasting as an empty ritual while neglecting justice and compassion. God desires fasting that flows from sincere love for Him and others. There is no command mandating specific fasting schedules for Christians today, but the practice remains a powerful and biblical discipline for those who wish to deepen their walk with God.