Why Do We Fast?

Fasting is voluntarily going without food — or any other regularly enjoyed, good gift from God — for the sake of some spiritual purpose. It is markedly counter-cultural in our consumerist society. Jesus assumes his followers will fast. He doesn’t say “if,” but “when you fast.”

Fasting is a moment where we raise our white flag and surrender the notion that the fleeting pleasures of the world are an adequate substitute for the infinite goodness of God. It is a declaration that what we really need is not of this world, and that we will not settle for less when God promises us immeasurably more.

“People do not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.”
— Matthew 4:4

Fasting is not ultimately about what we let go of, but who we will let take hold of us.

How To Fast?

1. Set Your Objective.

Start by taking a little time and let God prepare your heart for this fast. Think about the things that occupy your time and what you could sacrifice (not just give up) that in missing that thing would remind you to turn your attention to God.

For more information on fasting, consider reading these books:
Revival Starts Here by Dave Clayton
A Hunger For God: Desiring God Through Fasting And Prayer by John Piper
The Spirit Of The Disciplines: Understanding How God Changes Lives by Dallas Willard

2. Choose Your Fast.

There are 4 primary ways to fast.

  1. Major Fast
    A major fast is when you abstain from food or drink for 24 consecutive hours or more. It requires a certain level of physical health, and it is recommended that you check with your doctor if plan to fast longer than more than a few days in a row. A few examples from Scripture of a major fast can be found in Matthew 4:2, Acts 9:9, and Easter 4:15-16

  2. Minor Fast
    In a minor fast, you choose to abstain from food for a certain period of time (i.e., 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. or sunup to sundown). This fast is sometimes called a “Jewish fast,” and it can last for days at a time, eating only at a set time of the day. Most people will drink liquids during the day and have one small meal after sundown each evening.

  3. Partial Fast
    A partial fast is when you give up only certain foods during the course of your fast. This fast is seen most clearly in Daniel 1, where Daniel abstains from certain foods out of devotion to God for a period of time. Some people choose to give up certain foods they enjoy in an effort to turn their hearts more deeply toward God.

  4. Soul Fast
    Technically speaking, biblical fasting only refers to abstaining from food or drink (or both) for a spiritual purpose. However, some people choose to fast from things other than food. Some people will give up television, social media, or other activities for a soul fast to focus on prayer.

3. Prepare Yourself.

Set aside some time to prepare your mind, body, heart, and community for this month-long journey you are about to begin.

Fasting is just as much ha mental exercise as it is physical. Begin by asking the Lord to mentally prepare you for the journey you’re about to take.

No matter what kind of fast you’re preparing for, it will require some adjustments for your body. Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your fast and avoid the urge to overeat which will just make things more difficult once you begin.

Remember, fasting is about your commitment to the Lord. It may be helpful to spend time in confession and repentance before beginning. Ask God to forgive you of your sins, make sure you’re in good standing with your brothers and sisters, and ask God to purify your motives.

4. Make A Plan.

Make a plan to use the times usually give to eating as times of prayer, worship, and Bible study. Don’t give up lunch for your fast and spend the time catching up on work. If you are fasting from food or dinner, consider using family meal times to share what God is doing in your heart as the rest of the family eats. Making a plan for how you will repurpose your meal times is very important.

You need to start your fast and stick with it if you’re going to make any progress in this discipline. Chances are, especially if this is your first fast, you might not make it as long as you had intended. That’s okay! When you’re hungry, pray. If you break down and give in to hunger, pray. Either way, get back up and keep moving forward toward God. Fasting is an exercise in grace—so make sure you give yourself some.

5. Choose Who To Pray For.

Finally, take a moment to write down the names of specific people you will pray for this month. You can pray for any neighbors, coworkers, classmates, family members, and friends. You get to choose.

What To Do During The Fast

1. Set Your Heart On God Each Day.

Use the daily Colonial Devotional to set your heart on God each day.

2. Pray For Your Names Each Day.

Use the daily prayer points, provided in the devotional, to guide you as you pray for your list .

3. Make Life Better For The People On Your Prayer List.

Look for practical opportunities throughout the month to make life better for the people you are praying for each day.

Remember to be specific and intentional, Asking 2 questions every day:
What is God saying?
What should I do about it?

Colonial Teachings On Fasting
& Other Spiritual Disciplines