How to Fast

Fasting is an important part of the spiritual life.

The Bible doesn’t give us specific guidelines, though, keeping engagement rather broad.

This flexibility is great as it allows us to engage in ways unique to our situation, but, of course, can make the whole thing rather overwhelming.

So here are a few basic fasting principles to help you in your own journey.

What to Fast From

We can indeed fast from many things like technology, alcohol, or social media...

…but throughout Scripture, fasting is most commonly associated with food. So, if you’re going to start anywhere, my suggestion is there.

We all get hungry; we all need to eat. This is a core quality of the body and, naturally, a prime target for fasting.

Of course, fasting from things other than food is helpful and by no means wrong. Still, food remains a fundamental desire and something all people can relate to.

Frequency and Parameters

So, how frequently should we fast? And for how long?

Like I said at the start, there’s a lot of flexibility, so it begins with knowing your specific situation.

I fast once a week, typically on Monday, and conclude the fast at dinner that evening.

The early church fasted twice a week, usually on Wednesdays and Fridays, from sunup to sundown. 

If you’ve never fasted before, start small and work your way up. Go without one meal once a week, and as you get used to it, increase the quantity and time.

It’s also important to be mindful of your health.

Due to specific medical conditions, going without food for a day is harmful to some. Remember that a big part of fasting is caring for the body, not degrading it. So pay attention to your health and act accordingly.

For those who are already familiar with fasting and want a real challenge, I suggest doing a week-long fast at least once a year, preferably alongside others in your community.

And remember, too, that there’s a time and a place for fasting. 

I don’t fast the week after Easter since it’s a celebratory time, whereas the Lenten season is more somber and better lends itself to an attitude of fasting.

And remember, remember, remember, that the goal of fasting is the same as any other spiritual practice - to get closer to God. We mustn’t lose sight of that.

So, that was our overview of fasting!

I hope it was helpful and that you feel inspired to integrate it into your Rule of Life.

Fasting might be difficult, but the results are beautiful. So be encouraged and know that each time you fast, you follow in the footsteps of our mothers and fathers in the faith and, most importantly, Jesus Christ Himself.

Fight the good fight and let us know how it goes for you.

God bless, and see you next week.

Jon,

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