Have you ever tried to find satisfaction in the things or people around you? Or maybe the question should be how often are you trying to find satisfaction in the things and people around you? I know this is the case with me. I often browse the internet for the latest and greatest tool or the next best restaurant, seeking to find some value of satisfaction in it. It might be satisfying for a moment, but that satisfaction is fleeting.
The last time I fasted, God revealed to me how much value I put in the world around me. It has been my experience that every time I’ve fasted, God has shown up—or perhaps more correctly, I finally listened to what God had been shouting for a while.
Fasting is one of the spiritual disciplines that we all should be doing more often. With this simple how-to guide How To Fast, I walk you through biblical examples of different types of fasting, personal stories of my times of fasting, and a step-by-step guide on what to expect the next time you fast. This spiritual discipline can be so rich and formative in the foundation of spiritual growth because of how it incorporates the other disciplines as well. Fasting is so much more than the current fad diet trend; it is an intentional refocusing of your priorities, affections, and devotion to the Creator and Sustainer.
If you’re interested in learning more about fasting, and continuing in the how-to series from Bible Studies for Life, enter your email below and receive this free eBook. My prayer is that as you prepare for your next fast, you enter into it with a new sense of desire and you finish it with a new outlook on life and more hope for the future.
I discovered that it is extremely difficult for me to be fasting, praying and working at the same time. I know that fasting and not praying is hunger strike. Especially on workdays, I have tried without success to be praying and working, it is either I got lost in the work or in the prayers and not both. How do I reconcile this to maximize my fasting experience?
Thank you so much for your question. I think it’s important to remember your heart posture. If and how you are seeking God in your fasting, praying, AND working. There is no need to jump into a long fast from the beginning. My advice to you would be to start small. What would it look like to fast one meal? During the time when you would be eating, spend that time in prayer and study instead. Then, resume your normal day of work. Many people I know fast from lunch (on their lunch break from work) one day per week. What a great intentional practice! I recommend starting there, then, as you are able, increase it to an entire day per week. God looks at the heart, not at the outward appearance — the same is true during your fast. Thanks for reaching out!
OMG! This has helped me so much! I will and can start here!! My prayers are answered!!