What Kind of Fasting Pleases God?

Fasting is a powerful spiritual discipline practiced by many believers throughout history.

But what kind of fasting truly pleases God?

You might be wondering if it’s about abstaining from food, giving up something you love, or perhaps dedicating more time to prayer.

In this article, we’ll explore the essence of fasting that delights God’s heart, supported by biblical insights and practical guidance.

Understanding Biblical Fasting

Fasting, in a biblical sense, is more than just skipping meals.

It’s a deliberate act of humility, seeking to draw closer to God.

In the Bible, fasting is often paired with prayer, repentance, and a desire for spiritual renewal.

Key Bible Verses on Fasting

Isaiah 58:6-7 (NIV):

“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?”

Matthew 6:16-18 (NIV):

“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.”

Different Types of Fasting

Partial Fast: Restricting certain foods or meals.
Complete Fast: Abstaining from all food and sometimes drink for a period.
Intermittent Fast: Cycling between periods of eating and fasting.
Daniel Fast: Consuming only vegetables and water, based on Daniel 1:12.

The Heart Behind Fasting

God is more interested in the intentions behind your fast than the act itself.

Let’s dive into what makes fasting truly pleasing to God:

Genuine Repentance

Fasting should be coupled with genuine repentance.

It’s not about showing others how pious you are but about sincerely seeking God’s forgiveness and guidance.

Joel 2:12 (NIV) says, “Even now, declares the Lord, return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning.”

Compassionate Actions

Isaiah 58 highlights that fasting God desires includes actions that reflect His love and justice.

When you fast, consider how you can help others:

Feed the hungry.
Shelter the homeless.
Clothe the naked.
Set free those oppressed.

This isn’t just about giving up something but about giving out more love and support to those in need.

Sincere Humility

God isn’t impressed by outward displays of fasting. Instead, He looks for a humble heart.

Jesus taught that when you fast, it should be a private matter between you and God, free from the need for public acknowledgment (Matthew 6:16-18).

Fasting with Purpose

Fasting should have a clear spiritual purpose.

Whether you’re seeking guidance, expressing sorrow for sin, or desiring a closer relationship with God, your fast should be directed towards achieving these spiritual goals.

Practical Steps for a God-Pleasing Fast

Ready to embark on a fast that aligns with God’s heart?

Here’s how you can start:

#1. Define Your Purpose

Ask yourself why you’re fasting.

Are you seeking clarity, repenting, or praying for a breakthrough? Having a clear purpose helps keep your focus on God.

#2. Prepare Spiritually and Physically

Pray: Spend time in prayer before you begin your fast.
Meditate on Scripture: Reflect on verses that align with your fasting goals.
Plan Your Fast: Decide how long and what type of fast you’ll undertake.

#3. Fast with Humility

Maintain a humble attitude. Avoid drawing attention to your fast, and keep your focus on your spiritual growth and connection with God.

#4. Engage in Acts of Kindness

Use the time and resources you save from fasting to help others.

This could mean donating to a charity, volunteering your time, or simply being more mindful of those in need around you.

#5. Seek God in Prayer

Increase your prayer time during the fast.

Use this time to listen to God’s voice and seek His guidance.

#6. Reflect and Adjust

After your fast, reflect on the experience. What did you learn? How did it bring you closer to God? Use these insights to inform your future fasting practices.

Examples of God-Pleasing Fasts in the Bible

The Fast of Esther

In Esther 4:16, Queen Esther called for a fast among the Jews for three days before approaching the king to save her people.

This fast was marked by urgency, humility, and a deep trust in God’s deliverance.

Jesus’ 40-Day Fast

Jesus’ fast in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-2) was a time of preparation for His ministry.

It was marked by prayer, meditation on God’s word, and resisting temptation.

Daniel’s Fast

Daniel’s fast (Daniel 10:2-3) was characterized by mourning and seeking understanding from God.

He abstained from rich foods and focused on humble prayer and reflection.

Conclusion

Fasting that pleases God is more about the heart than the hunger.

It’s about aligning your will with God’s, showing compassion to others, and seeking genuine transformation.

When you fast with these principles in mind, you’re not just denying yourself but dedicating yourself to a deeper, more meaningful relationship with God.

Remember, the fast that pleases God isn’t just about what you give up but how you give out His love to those around you.

So, as you consider fasting, focus on these aspects and watch how it enriches your spiritual journey.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is fasting according to the Bible?

Fasting in the Bible involves abstaining from food or certain activities for a spiritual purpose.

It’s a way to humble yourself before God, seek His guidance, and deepen your relationship with Him.

Fasting often includes prayer, repentance, and acts of compassion.

2. Why should I fast?

Fasting can help you:

Draw closer to God.
Seek clarity and direction.
Express repentance and humility.
Enhance your prayer life.
Demonstrate compassion and support for others.

3. How do I know if my fasting pleases God?

Your fasting pleases God when it’s:

Done with a sincere heart.
Accompanied by genuine repentance.
Paired with compassionate actions toward others.
Focused on spiritual growth rather than outward appearances.

4. Can I fast from things other than food?

Yes, you can fast from other activities or habits, like social media, entertainment, or certain luxuries.

The key is to give up something significant to you and use that time or resources to focus on God and help others.

5. How long should I fast?

The duration of a fast can vary. It could be as short as a meal or as long as several days.

Decide based on your spiritual goals and physical capacity. Common fasts include:

Partial Fast: Restricting certain foods or meals.
Complete Fast: Abstaining from all food (and sometimes drink) for a set period.
Intermittent Fast: Alternating between periods of eating and fasting.

6. What if I can’t fast from food due to health reasons?

If fasting from food isn’t possible for you, consider other forms of fasting, such as giving up a favorite activity or dedicating extra time to prayer and service.

The intention and heart behind your fast are what matter most to God.

7. How can I prepare for a fast?

Prepare for a fast by:

Setting a clear purpose.
Praying for guidance and strength.
Planning the type and duration of your fast.
Meditating on relevant scriptures.
Easing into your fast if it involves abstaining from food.

8. What should I do during a fast?

During a fast, focus on:

Increased prayer and meditation.
Reading and reflecting on the Bible.
Performing acts of kindness and service.
Seeking God’s guidance and listening to His voice.

9. How should I break a fast?

Break your fast gradually, especially if it involved abstaining from food for an extended period.

Start with light, easily digestible foods.

Continue to pray and reflect on what you’ve learned and how you’ve grown spiritually.

10. What does the Bible say about fasting in secret?

Jesus taught that fasting should be a private matter between you and God, not for public display or recognition.

In Matthew 6:16-18, He emphasizes fasting with humility and sincerity, focusing on your relationship with God rather than seeking attention from others.

11. Can fasting really make a difference in my life?

Yes, fasting can significantly impact your spiritual life.

It can deepen your relationship with God, clarify your purpose, and inspire acts of compassion.

By aligning your will with God’s, fasting can lead to profound personal and spiritual growth.

12. How often should I fast?

The frequency of fasting depends on your personal spiritual journey and needs.

Some people fast regularly, such as once a week or during specific religious observances.

Others may fast during times of particular need or spiritual seeking. Listen to God’s guidance and your own spiritual needs to determine what’s right for you.

13. What should I do if I struggle with fasting?

If fasting is challenging:

Start with shorter or less intense fasts.
Seek support from a trusted spiritual mentor or friend.
Pray for strength and guidance.
Focus on the purpose and benefits of fasting.
Remember that it’s about the heart and intention, not perfection.

14. How can I incorporate acts of compassion into my fast?

During your fast, look for ways to serve others, such as:

Donating money or time to a charity.
Preparing meals for those in need.
Volunteering at a local shelter or community organization.
Being more attentive and supportive to those around you.

15. What are some examples of God-pleasing fasts in the Bible?

Some notable examples include:

Esther’s Fast: For three days, Esther and the Jewish people fasted and prayed for deliverance (Esther 4:16).
Jesus’ 40-Day Fast: Jesus fasted in the wilderness before beginning His ministry, focusing on prayer and resisting temptation (Matthew 4:1-2).
Daniel’s Fast: Daniel fasted by eating only vegetables and water to seek understanding and humility before God (Daniel 10:2-3).

These examples highlight the importance of intention, humility, and seeking God’s will through fasting.