Notably, are the fasts that God ordered. Numerous are the mandated fasting by God to the children of Israel. Because of their disobedience, many were the orders of God to them to show their humility and repentance.
Fasting and Spiritual Strength
What is fasting? Fasting is often associated with abstaining from food and liquids, with the exception of water. As I write this blog post, I remember that my longest fasting was for torty days. Accomplishing that mission, still ministers to me. The purpose – to change a specific situation. The food choice – to abstain from all carbs and sugars. Giving thanks at the end of the fast, I gave God thanks for drawing me closer to Him. Thus, when questions come my way about fasting, I ask. “Is the fast that God ordered?”
Profoundly, I do not find it difficult to fast when it is the fast that God ordered.
Biblical Icons of Fasting
In no special order: Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezra, Asa, Daniel, Moses, David, Elisha, Mordecai Esther, Anna, Mary the mother of Jesus, John the Baptist, Jesus, Jesus’s disciples after His departure, and Paul are well-known icons in proclaiming a fast. With prayer and fasting, the victories of healing, miracles, and overcoming, God gave deliverance. To call for a fast, to break or interrupt, is spiritual.
On the other hand, Jesus’s disciples did not fast while Jesus was with them on earth. Only after Jesus ascended to the Heavenly Father did his disciples fast (Mark 2:20). God honors fasting that is for the purpose to glorify Him, not self.
Other Purposes for Fasting
Some reasons for calling a break: Discipline from immorality, mourning, and confession; to seek the Lord, show gratitude, discernment, and prepare for spiritual warfare. Ezra wrote, “So we fasted and entreated our God for this, and He answered our prayer,” (Ezra 8:23). Fasting for guidance is given to us for victory in spiritual growth. It is not the only tool. However, it is a powerful one.
Faith is part of the process of a fast (break). Believe that God will answer. One promising scripture reads: “Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer; you shall cry, and He will say, “Here I am.” The continuing verses of Isaiah 58:9-12 remind us that God cares. To open the eyes of our heart, He is willing to do. He is willing to take away the yoke.
Strength in Your Now
In summary, fasting is to bring change and make a difference. While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” So, after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off (Acts 13:2-3).
Prayerfully, as you lay hands on yourself, may God give you strength for the fast that He orders.
You may also like for your mind, body and spirit: