Verses About Fasting: What the Bible Says

Welcome to PowerfulJesus.com!

Fasting in the Bible is a significant spiritual practice described across both Old and New Testaments. It involves voluntarily abstaining from food or drink to seek God’s guidance, demonstrate repentance, or prepare for spiritual missions. Key examples include Moses’ 40-day fast on Mount Sinai, Esther’s three-day fast for her people, and Jesus’ 40-day fast in the wilderness. The Bible emphasizes fasting as a sincere act of worship and spiritual discipline rather than a mere dietary choice. Keep reading below for a more in-depth cover.

Fasting isn’t just about abstaining from food; it’s a profound spiritual discipline deeply rooted in biblical tradition.

From the Old Testament to the New Testament, fasting is shown as a way to humble oneself, seek God, and gain spiritual clarity.

If you’re curious about what the Bible says on this topic, let’s explore together.

What Is Fasting in the Bible?

In its simplest form, fasting is voluntarily going without food or drink for a period of time.

But biblically, it’s much more than just a dietary choice.

It’s a deliberate act of worship and dedication to God.

Key Purposes of Fasting in the Bible:

Seeking God’s Guidance: Fasting is often linked with prayer and seeking divine guidance.
Repentance and Humility: It’s a way to humble oneself before God and repent for sins.
Spiritual Warfare: Fasting can be a weapon against spiritual challenges.
Preparation for Ministry: Many biblical figures fasted before embarking on their divine missions.

Old Testament Insights on Fasting

Moses and the Ten Commandments

One of the earliest and most significant examples of fasting in the Bible is Moses on Mount Sinai.

He fasted for 40 days and 40 nights while receiving the Ten Commandments from God.

“So he was there with the Lord forty days and forty nights; he neither ate bread nor drank water. And He wrote on the tablets the words of the covenant, the Ten Commandments.” – Exodus 34:28

This fast was not only about receiving God’s law but also about being in God’s presence and preparing to lead His people.

Esther’s Call to Fast

Queen Esther’s story is another powerful example. Facing a crisis where her people were under threat, Esther called for a three-day fast.

“Go, gather together all the Jews who are in Susa, and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my attendants will fast as you do. When this is done, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish.” – Esther 4:16

This collective fast was a plea for divine intervention and protection.

Fasting in Times of Repentance

The people of Nineveh fasted in response to Jonah’s warning from God.

Their fasting was a demonstration of their repentance.

“When Jonah’s warning reached the king of Nineveh, he rose from his throne, took off his royal robes, covered himself with sackcloth and sat down in the dust. This is the proclamation he issued in Nineveh: ‘By the decree of the king and his nobles: Do not let people or animals, herds or flocks, taste anything; do not let them eat or drink.'” – Jonah 3:6-7

Their sincere fasting and repentance led to God’s mercy.

New Testament Teachings on Fasting

Jesus’ Teachings on Fasting

Jesus taught about fasting as a private and sincere act, not a public display for praise.

“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.” – Matthew 6:16-18

Here, Jesus emphasizes the importance of the heart’s intention behind fasting.

Fasting and Spiritual Preparation

Before beginning His ministry, Jesus fasted for 40 days and nights in the wilderness.

This period was crucial for Him to prepare for His mission and overcome temptation.

“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.” – Matthew 4:1-2

This fast highlights fasting’s role in spiritual fortification and readiness.

Fasting in the Early Church

Fasting was a common practice in the early Christian community, especially when seeking God’s guidance or appointing leaders.

“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.” – Acts 13:2-3

Fasting, combined with prayer, was integral in making important decisions and seeking the Holy Spirit’s direction.

How to Approach Fasting Today

Practical Tips for Fasting:

Start Small: If you’re new to fasting, begin with shorter periods and gradually extend them.
Combine with Prayer: Fasting without prayer is just dieting. Make prayer a central part of your fast.
Be Clear About Your Purpose: Understand why you’re fasting – whether it’s for guidance, repentance, or spiritual growth.
Stay Hydrated: Unless doing a dry fast, drink water to stay hydrated.
Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to your health, especially if you have medical conditions. Consult a doctor if necessary.

Spiritual Tips for Fasting:

Seek God’s Presence: Use the time you would spend eating to pray and read the Bible.
Stay Humble: Approach fasting with a spirit of humility and sincerity.
Reflect and Repent: Use fasting as a time for personal reflection and repentance.
Trust in God’s Strength: Lean on God for the strength to sustain you during your fast.

Verses to Reflect On While Fasting

Isaiah’s Vision of True Fasting

Isaiah talks about the kind of fasting that pleases God – one that brings justice and freedom.

“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?” – Isaiah 58:6-7

This passage calls us to focus on actions that align with God’s heart.

David’s Heartfelt Fast

David fasted in deep sorrow and repentance after his sin with Bathsheba.

“I put on sackcloth and humbled myself with fasting.” – Psalm 35:13

Fasting can be a way to express genuine remorse and seek God’s forgiveness.

Conclusion

Fasting, when done with the right heart and purpose, is a powerful spiritual discipline.

It brings you closer to God, helps you seek His guidance, and strengthens your faith.

Whether you’re looking to start fasting or deepen your practice, let these biblical examples and teachings guide you on your journey.

Remember, it’s not just about what you’re giving up, but what you’re gaining spiritually.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Fasting

1. What is fasting according to the Bible?

Fasting in the Bible involves abstaining from food and sometimes drink for a spiritual purpose.

It’s often done to seek God’s guidance, show repentance, or prepare for a significant spiritual event.

Fasting is a way to humble oneself and focus more on God and prayer.

2. Why should Christians fast?

Christians fast to draw closer to God, seek His will, and gain spiritual clarity.

Fasting is also a way to show repentance, prepare for ministry, or seek God’s intervention in challenging times.

It’s a practice that helps believers focus on their relationship with God.

3. How often should one fast?

The Bible doesn’t prescribe a specific frequency for fasting.

The decision to fast and how often is a personal one, guided by individual needs and spiritual goals.

Some fast regularly, such as weekly or during significant spiritual seasons, while others fast during specific times of need or reflection.

4. Can I drink water while fasting?

Yes, unless you’re doing a dry fast, drinking water during a fast is generally encouraged to keep you hydrated.

The Bible includes various types of fasting, some involving complete abstinence from food and drink, while others may allow liquids or certain foods.

5. Are there different types of fasting in the Bible?

Yes, the Bible mentions several types of fasting, including:

Normal Fast: Abstaining from all food but drinking water, as Jesus did in the wilderness.
Partial Fast: Restricting certain foods, like Daniel’s diet of vegetables and water.
Absolute Fast: Abstaining from all food and drink for a short period, like Esther’s three-day fast.

6. What should I pray for while fasting?

You can pray for various things while fasting, such as:

Seeking God’s guidance or direction.
Personal repentance and spiritual renewal.
Interceding for others in need.
Spiritual strength and protection.
Expressing gratitude and worship to God.

7. How can I start fasting if I’ve never done it before?

If you’re new to fasting, start small:

Begin with skipping one meal and spending that time in prayer.
Gradually extend the fasting period as you become more comfortable.
Ensure you’re well-hydrated unless doing a dry fast.
Combine your fasting with prayer and Bible reading for a deeper spiritual experience.

8. What are the benefits of fasting?

Fasting offers numerous spiritual benefits, including:

Deepening your relationship with God.
Increasing your spiritual sensitivity and clarity.
Demonstrating humility and dependence on God.
Strengthening your prayer life.
Enhancing self-discipline and focus.

9. Is fasting required for Christians?

Fasting isn’t a mandatory practice for Christians, but it is highly encouraged as a spiritual discipline.

Jesus mentioned “when you fast,” implying that He expected His followers to practice it, but it’s not a requirement for salvation or righteousness.

10. Can I fast if I have health issues?

If you have health issues, it’s important to consult with a doctor before starting a fast.

There are many ways to participate in fasting without compromising your health.

You can consider fasting from specific types of food, engaging in a partial fast, or even fasting from activities or habits instead of food.

11. What’s the difference between fasting and dieting?

Fasting is a spiritual discipline aimed at seeking God and deepening one’s faith, while dieting is primarily focused on health and weight management.

The intention behind fasting is to draw closer to God and often involves prayer and reflection, whereas dieting is centered on physical well-being.

12. How do I break a fast properly?

Breaking a fast should be done gradually to avoid shocking your system:

Start with small, light meals like fruits or soups.
Slowly reintroduce heavier foods over the next day or two.
Drink plenty of water and avoid overeating immediately after a fast.

13. Can I fast from things other than food?

Yes, fasting isn’t limited to food.

You can fast from anything that distracts you from your relationship with God, such as social media, entertainment, or certain activities.

The key is to use the time and focus gained from the fast to draw nearer to God.

14. Where can I find more examples of fasting in the Bible?

You can find examples of fasting throughout the Bible, including:

Moses on Mount Sinai (Exodus 34:28)
Daniel’s fast (Daniel 1:12, 10:3)
Esther and the Jews (Esther 4:16)
Jesus’ 40-day fast (Matthew 4:1-2)
The early church (Acts 13:2-3)

15. What’s the most important thing to remember about fasting?

The most important thing about fasting is the intention behind it.

It’s not just about abstaining from food but about seeking a deeper connection with God.

Approach fasting with a sincere heart, combine it with prayer, and focus on spiritual growth and renewal.