Concerning Fasting

What does the Bible teach about fasting- voluntarily abstaining a while from food? Did Jesus fast? Does he expect it of his followers? What are the spiritual benefits of fasting?

We give scriptures both in the Old Testament and New Testament in this teaching.

What is the spiritual benefit of fasting? According to Richard Foster, more than any other discipline, fasting reveals those things that control us. Food or drink, or any other idol or addiction, must ultimately bow to the Lordship of Christ. Fasting purges the soul of that which claims to be but is not God. Fasting can help us experience the grace of God in unique ways. It should not be neglected by believers today.

Matthew 6:16-18: "When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. 17But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, 18so that it will not be obvious to men 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.

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[USCOC]

God said, "When you seek me with all your heart, I will be found by you" (Jeremiah 29:13,14). When a person is willing to set aside eating to concentrate on the work of praying, they are demonstrating that they mean business, that they are seeking God with all their heart.

[AlveusLacuna]

Oblitory?

[allwmnn]

You have helped me so much.

Thank you.