Jesus About Fasting — What Does Jesus Say About Fasting?

Jesus and Fasting: What Did He Say?

Fasting is one of those spiritual practices that you might’ve heard about but aren’t quite sure what it entails or why it’s significant.

In the Bible, Jesus has quite a bit to say about fasting, providing guidance on how, why, and when to fast.

Let’s delve into what Jesus says about fasting and how it can be meaningful in your spiritual journey.

What Is Fasting?

First things first, fasting is the voluntary abstinence from food, and sometimes drink, for a set period.

It’s not just about denying yourself physical nourishment but also about focusing on your spiritual growth.

Fasting creates space for prayer, meditation, and a deeper connection with God.

Jesus’ Teaching on Fasting

The Sermon on the Mount

One of the most direct teachings of Jesus on fasting comes from the Sermon on the Mount.

In Matthew 6:16-18, Jesus says:

“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.”

Here, Jesus emphasizes that fasting shouldn’t be about seeking approval or admiration from others.

Instead, it’s a private act of devotion to God.

He wants you to fast sincerely and humbly, focusing on your relationship with God rather than impressing those around you.

Fasting with the Right Intentions

Jesus also talks about the intention behind fasting.

It’s not just about going without food; it’s about why you’re doing it.

In Matthew 9:14-15, when asked why His disciples weren’t fasting like the Pharisees, Jesus replied:

“How can the guests of the bridegroom mourn while he is with them? The time will come when the bridegroom will be taken from them; then they will fast.”

Jesus highlights that fasting isn’t about ritual but about the heart’s condition.

There’s a time for everything, and fasting is appropriate when it’s a genuine response to spiritual need, not just a tick in the religious checklist.

Preparation for Major Events

Jesus Himself fasted for forty days and nights before beginning His public ministry.

This period of fasting in the wilderness, described in Matthew 4:1-2, was a time of preparation and spiritual strengthening:

“Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry.”

This shows that fasting can be a powerful tool for spiritual readiness, preparing you for significant moments and challenges in your life.

It’s not just about enduring hunger but about being spiritually equipped for what lies ahead.

How Should You Fast?

Fasting with a Purpose

When you decide to fast, it’s crucial to have a clear purpose.

Whether it’s seeking guidance, deepening your prayer life, or interceding for others, knowing why you’re fasting will help you stay focused and committed.

Ask yourself what you hope to achieve spiritually through fasting.

Keep It Between You and God

As Jesus taught, fasting is a private matter between you and God.

It’s easy to fall into the trap of seeking attention or sympathy when fasting.

Jesus’ instruction to wash your face and anoint your head underscores the importance of maintaining your usual appearance and routine so that others aren’t aware of your fast.

This keeps the act pure and focused on God.

Stay Hydrated and Safe

While fasting traditionally means abstaining from food, it’s essential to stay hydrated, especially during prolonged fasts.

Also, consider your health and consult a medical professional if you have any conditions that might be affected by fasting.

Your health is important, and fasting should not jeopardize it.

Combine Fasting with Prayer

Fasting isn’t just about what you’re giving up; it’s also about what you’re gaining.

Combining fasting with prayer can deepen your connection with God.

Use the time you would’ve spent eating to pray, read the Bible, and reflect.

This enhances the spiritual impact of your fast.

Benefits of Fasting

Spiritual Clarity

Fasting can bring a sense of spiritual clarity and focus.

By removing the distractions of daily life, you can tune into God’s voice more clearly.

This can be particularly helpful when seeking guidance or making significant decisions.

Strengthened Faith

Denying yourself physically can strengthen your faith and reliance on God.

It’s a reminder that your true sustenance comes not from food but from every word that comes from the mouth of God (Matthew 4:4).

Increased Discipline

Fasting builds discipline.

It’s not easy to go without food, and practicing self-control in this area can translate into other aspects of your life, fostering a more disciplined and intentional way of living.

Modern-Day Fasting

Types of Fasts

Today, fasting can take many forms.

While traditional fasting involves abstaining from all food, some choose to fast from specific items (like sweets or caffeine) or activities (like social media).

The key is to choose something meaningful that helps you draw closer to God.

Fasting in Community

While Jesus emphasized the personal nature of fasting, there’s also value in communal fasting.

Many churches and groups fast together, supporting each other and praying for shared intentions.

This can foster a sense of unity and collective spiritual growth.

Conclusion

Fasting, as taught by Jesus, is more than just a physical act of going without food.

It’s a deeply spiritual practice meant to draw you closer to God, purify your intentions, and prepare you for significant moments in your life.

When you fast, do it with sincerity, humility, and a focus on deepening your relationship with God.

Remember, it’s not about outward appearances or rituals but about what’s happening in your heart.

So, the next time you consider fasting, let it be a time of profound spiritual renewal and connection with God.

FAQs About Fasting: What Jesus Says

1. What is fasting according to Jesus?

Fasting, as taught by Jesus, is the voluntary abstention from food (and sometimes drink) for spiritual purposes.

It’s not just about physical denial but also about focusing on spiritual growth and drawing closer to God.

2. Why did Jesus fast?

Jesus fasted to prepare for significant events and to strengthen His spiritual focus.

For instance, He fasted for forty days in the wilderness before starting His public ministry, as described in Matthew 4:1-2.

3. What does Jesus say about how we should fast?

In Matthew 6:16-18, Jesus advises fasting privately and humbly.

He emphasizes not to seek attention or admiration from others but to focus on a sincere and personal relationship with God.

4. When should you fast according to Jesus?

Jesus indicates that fasting should be a response to specific spiritual needs or situations, not just a routine ritual.

In Matthew 9:14-15, He suggests fasting is appropriate when you’re seeking God’s guidance, preparing for significant life events, or in times of mourning and spiritual need.

5. How can you combine fasting with prayer?

While fasting, you should use the time you’d normally spend eating to pray and reflect.

This combination enhances the spiritual impact, allowing for deeper communication with God and increased spiritual clarity.

6. What are the benefits of fasting?

Fasting can bring spiritual clarity, strengthen your faith, and build discipline.

It helps you focus on God, seek His guidance, and depend more on His word for sustenance rather than physical food (Matthew 4:4).

7. Can fasting be about more than food?

Yes, modern-day fasting can include abstaining from specific foods, activities, or distractions, like sweets, social media, or caffeine.

The key is to choose something that helps you focus on your spiritual journey and relationship with God.

8. Is it safe to fast for extended periods?

While traditional fasting involves going without food, it’s crucial to stay hydrated, especially during prolonged fasts.

Always consider your health and consult with a medical professional if you have any health conditions that could be affected by fasting.

9. Can you fast with others?

While Jesus emphasizes the personal nature of fasting, there’s also value in communal fasting.

Many communities and churches fast together, supporting each other and praying for shared intentions, which can strengthen unity and collective spiritual growth.

10. How do you start fasting if you’ve never done it before?

Start with short, simple fasts, like skipping a meal and using that time for prayer and reflection.

Gradually increase the duration as you become more comfortable.

Ensure you have a clear purpose for your fast and keep it focused on your spiritual journey.

11. Does fasting guarantee spiritual results?

Fasting doesn’t guarantee specific outcomes, but it aligns your focus and intentions with God’s will.

It’s a way to seek God more earnestly and to deepen your spiritual life, but it’s important to approach it with the right heart and motives.

12. What should you do after fasting?

After fasting, take time to reflect on your experience and the insights gained.

Return to your regular routine gradually, appreciating the spiritual growth and clarity you’ve achieved.

Use what you’ve learned to enhance your ongoing spiritual practices.

13. Can fasting be done for reasons other than spiritual growth?

While Jesus emphasizes fasting for spiritual purposes, some fast for health or social reasons.

However, the biblical perspective focuses on fasting as a means to deepen your connection with God and strengthen your spiritual life.

14. What if you can’t fast from food due to health reasons?

If you can’t fast from food for health reasons, consider fasting from other things that occupy your time and attention, like certain activities or habits.

The key is to find something meaningful that allows you to focus more on your spiritual journey.

15. Does fasting make you more spiritual than others?

No, fasting doesn’t make you more spiritual than others.

It’s a personal practice that helps you grow closer to God.

Jesus warns against using fasting to seek attention or to feel superior to others.

It’s about sincere devotion and humility before God.