Spiritual fasting is a powerful way to draw closer to God, but staying hydrated during a fast can raise important questions. This article breaks down what drinks are acceptable during a fast from both a biblical and practical perspective. From water and herbal tea to more debated options like black coffee or juice, you’ll get a clear understanding of which drinks support the spirit of fasting—and which ones may unintentionally disrupt it.
We explore each option through Scripture, tradition, and common sense to help you fast with both wisdom and intention. Whether you’re new to fasting or seeking a deeper, more disciplined approach, this guide gives you the clarity and confidence to honor God with your choices. Keep reading for a deeper dive into the drinks that nourish your body without compromising your spirit.
Spiritual fasting is more than just skipping meals. It’s about drawing closer to God, seeking His guidance, humbling yourself, and intentionally setting aside distractions. But when you’re fasting, especially for longer periods, hydration becomes a real concern. You may wonder: What can I drink while still honoring God in my fast?
Let’s break it down simply, using Scripture, practical wisdom, and centuries of spiritual tradition.
What Is Spiritual Fasting?
In the Bible, fasting is the practice of denying the body food for a spiritual purpose. Jesus fasted (Matthew 4:2), Moses fasted (Exodus 34:28), and so did many others.
Fasting usually comes with prayer, repentance, and seeking God’s will.
It’s not about impressing God or punishing yourself. It’s about aligning your heart with Him.
Types of biblical fasts:
- Absolute fast: No food or water (e.g., Esther 4:16, Acts 9:9)
- Normal fast: No food, but water is allowed (most common)
- Partial fast: Restricting certain foods (like Daniel in Daniel 10:2–3)
Should You Drink Anything While Fasting?
Yes—unless God specifically leads you to an absolute fast, hydration is generally accepted and even encouraged during most fasts.
There’s no command in the Bible that says you must avoid water or certain drinks. In fact, most biblical fasts assume people are still drinking water. The human body can survive for weeks without food but only a few days without water.
What Does God Consider Acceptable?
While the Bible doesn’t give a list of “approved drinks,” we can use Scripture, common sense, and Christian tradition to answer this.
The goal is to honor God with your body (1 Corinthians 6:19-20) and keep your focus on Him—not on what’s in your cup.
Here’s a simple rule:
If a drink supports your health and keeps your fast spiritually centered, it’s likely acceptable to God.
Now let’s look at common drinks during fasting and whether they fit into spiritual discipline.
1. Water — Always Acceptable
Water is pure, natural, and essential. Almost every fast includes water unless it’s an absolute fast led by the Holy Spirit.
- Why it’s acceptable: It sustains life and doesn’t distract.
- Biblical backing: Jesus likely drank water during His 40-day fast in the wilderness (Matthew 4:2), since it was a long period and He returned in strength.
Drink plenty of water during your fast unless you feel specifically led otherwise. Staying hydrated helps you focus on prayer and avoid headaches, fatigue, and dizziness.
2. Herbal Teas — Usually Acceptable
Unsweetened herbal teas (like peppermint, chamomile, or ginger) can help with digestion, calm your mind, and support your health without breaking the spirit of fasting.
- Why they’re acceptable: No calories, no sugar, just natural herbs and water.
- Tip: Avoid caffeinated teas or any tea with sweeteners or milk.
Check your heart: Are you drinking tea for health or to indulge your cravings?
3. Black Coffee — Sometimes Acceptable
Coffee is a bit controversial. It has no calories when taken black, but it’s a stimulant.
- Why it may be acceptable: It doesn’t technically break a food fast.
- Why it may not be: It can become a crutch or take your focus off God. If you “need” it to function, it might be a sign it’s an idol (Exodus 20:3).
Some believers allow black coffee, especially during longer fasts. But check your motives. Is it helping or distracting your spirit?
4. Juices — Depends on the Fast
Natural fruit and vegetable juices are often used in extended fasts (like 3+ days) for energy and nutrients.
- Why they may be acceptable: They’re part of a “liquid fast” and not meant for pleasure.
- Why you should be careful: Some juices are high in sugar and can spike energy or cravings. Avoid added sugars.
Daniel-style fasts (Daniel 1:12) may include things like juice or broth, but always within limits.
5. Bone Broth or Vegetable Broth — Context Matters
Some spiritual fasts, especially 3-day or longer fasts, include clear broths to maintain strength.
- Why they can be acceptable: They provide electrolytes and keep the body functioning during longer periods without solid food.
- Why you need to watch out: Don’t turn it into a meal replacement. Avoid anything heavy or fatty.
Broth can help you complete the fast if your body is weak but shouldn’t become the focus.
6. Milk, Smoothies, Protein Shakes — Not Spiritually Appropriate
These are full of calories and usually consumed for satisfaction, not survival.
- Why they’re not acceptable: They move the fast into “eating” territory.
- Biblical principle: Fasting is about denying the flesh, not feeding it differently.
If your drink feels more like a meal, it’s best to avoid it.
What About the Heart?
God always looks at the heart first.
“Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” —1 Samuel 16:7
If you’re trying to find loopholes or tricks to feel full while fasting, that’s a red flag. Fasting isn’t about what you can get away with—it’s about surrender.
Your motives matter more than the ingredients.
Tips for Staying Hydrated and Focused
Here are some practical tips that honor your fast:
- Drink 8–10 glasses of water daily – Especially if your fast is longer than one day.
- Add lemon to your water – Helps detox, adds flavor, and won’t break a fast.
- Limit caffeine – It dehydrates you and can affect your mood or focus.
- Avoid sugary drinks – They create cravings and energy crashes.
- Keep it simple – The fewer ingredients, the better.
Final Thoughts: What Would Please God?
Fasting is a sacred offering. It’s not about rules, but reverence.
Ask yourself:
- Am I drinking this to get closer to God or avoid discomfort?
- Would this drink help or hinder my spiritual focus?
- Am I letting the Holy Spirit lead, or am I managing this on my own?
When in doubt, go back to the basics: Water, prayer, and a humble heart.
Summary: Acceptable Drinks During a Spiritual Fast
| Drink | Acceptable? | Notes |
| Water | ✅ Yes | Always safe and recommended |
| Herbal Tea | ✅ Yes | Unsweetened, no milk |
| Black Coffee | ⚠️ Maybe | Use with discernment, not for addiction |
| Fruit/Vegetable Juice | ⚠️ Maybe | Only if part of a liquid fast; no added sugars |
| Broth | ⚠️ Maybe | Best for extended fasts |
| Milk/Smoothies | ❌ No | Too filling; not in line with fasting spirit |
| Soda/Energy Drinks | ❌ No | Artificial, sugary, distracting |
One Last Verse
“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… will reward you.” —Matthew 6:16–18
Fasting isn’t about what people see. It’s about what God sees in your heart.
Drink wisely. Fast faithfully. Stay focused.
FAQs: Spiritual Fasting and Hydration – What Drinks Are Acceptable to God?
1. Can I drink water during spiritual fasting?
Yes. In the context of Spiritual Fasting and Hydration: What Drinks Are Acceptable to God?, water is not only acceptable—it’s encouraged. Staying hydrated supports your health and helps you stay focused on prayer.
2. Is coffee acceptable to God during a fast?
Black coffee may be acceptable during spiritual fasting, but it depends on your motives. If you’re relying on it for energy or comfort, it may not align with the purpose of the fast. The goal is to remove distractions and focus on God.
3. Are fruit juices okay to drink while fasting for God?
Juices can be acceptable in certain types of fasts (like a liquid or Daniel fast), but they should be natural with no added sugars. In Spiritual Fasting and Hydration: What Drinks Are Acceptable to God?, we caution against anything consumed for pleasure rather than spiritual discipline.
4. Can I have herbal tea while fasting spiritually?
Yes, unsweetened herbal teas are generally fine. In this guide on Spiritual Fasting and Hydration: What Drinks Are Acceptable to God?, we recommend herbal teas for their calming and digestive benefits—just avoid sweeteners and milk.
5. Is broth considered acceptable to God during a fast?
Clear vegetable or bone broth may be acceptable, especially in longer fasts for physical support. The key is intent: in Spiritual Fasting and Hydration: What Drinks Are Acceptable to God?, broth is only appropriate when it helps you maintain focus, not replace meals.
6. Are smoothies or protein shakes okay in a spiritual fast?
No. In this guide on Spiritual Fasting and Hydration: What Drinks Are Acceptable to God?, we explain that smoothies and shakes are too filling and usually meant to satisfy appetite, which goes against the heart of fasting.
7. What does the Bible say about what to drink during a fast?
While the Bible doesn’t list specific acceptable drinks, it emphasizes humility, discipline, and focus on God. Spiritual Fasting and Hydration: What Drinks Are Acceptable to God? uses Scripture to guide choices that align with biblical values.
8. Can I drink flavored water while spiritually fasting?
It depends. If the flavoring is natural and has no sugar or calories, it may be acceptable. But in Spiritual Fasting and Hydration: What Drinks Are Acceptable to God?, we stress keeping your drinks simple and distraction-free.
9. What’s the best drink for long-term spiritual fasting?
Plain water is always the best, but some may include herbal teas or broth in longer fasts. In Spiritual Fasting and Hydration: What Drinks Are Acceptable to God?, we offer a breakdown of drink options based on fast duration and spiritual focus.
10. How do I know if a drink is pleasing to God during a fast?
Ask yourself: “Is this drink helping me seek God, or is it serving my comfort?” In Spiritual Fasting and Hydration: What Drinks Are Acceptable to God?, we teach that motives matter more than the drink itself. Keep it simple, sincere, and God-focused.
