WHY FAST?
According to the Bible, there are three duties of every Christian: give, pray and fast . Read Matthew 6:1-21 . Pay particular attention to one word in verses 2, 5 and 16 . Jesus says, “WHEN you give...WHEN you pray...WHEN you fast .” Those are directives, not options .
Fasting makes you aware of the presence of Jesus in your life . The more you are aware of Him, the more time you spend with Him, the more your relationship with Him will thrive . This will impact your marriage, friendships, career and the way you interact with other people in the world . Ultimately, this leads to the greatest treasure of all, storing up treasures in Heaven . (Matthew 6:19-21)
Fasting reminds you to hunger for His Word . When Jesus spent 40 days fasting in the wilderness, He answered the temptation of Satan by saying, “People do not live by bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God .” (Matthew 4:4) If you’re not hungry for God, this sounds like nonsense, but what truly sustains you is the Word of God .
Fasting grows a hunger for Jesus in your life and reveals unhealthy habits . When you are hungry (hangry), you see how the stomach has huge control over your actions . While fasting, unhealthy habits are revealed . You’ll realize when you are seeking comfort or avoiding issues by using food, alcohol, social media, etc ., that do not satisfy, instead of turning to Christ and His Word . It reveals things that may be controlling you rather than having self-control . Fasting trains you to seek His will .
Fasting will help you find balance in life, revealing where you may be out of balance in how you spend your time and resources .
Fasting helps you see clearly . Do you have a big decision that you need to make? Are you considering a move? Are you considering changing careers? Are you considering marriage or starting a family? Before any major decision, the Bible is clear that we should fast and pray . Psalm 119:105 says, “Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path .” The Word will give us direction and peace in our hearts when we seek God for life’s decisions .