Fasting in the Bible is a voluntary act of abstaining from food (and sometimes other activities) for a spiritual purpose. It is an expression of humility, repentance, and dependence on God. Fasting is not about self-denial for its own sake but about seeking the Lord with greater intensity.
Moses fasted before receiving the law:
“So he was there with the Lord forty days and forty nights; he neither ate bread nor drank water.” (Exodus 34:28)
David fasted in times of distress and repentance:
“I humbled myself with fasting; and my prayer would return to my own heart.” (Psalm 35:13)
Jesus fasted before beginning His public ministry:
“And when He had fasted forty days and forty nights, afterward He was hungry.” (Matthew 4:2)
Fasting was also practiced in the early church when seeking God’s direction:
“As they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Now separate to Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.'” (Acts 13:2)
The purpose of fasting includes:
- Humbling oneself before God.
- Expressing repentance.
- Seeking guidance and wisdom.
- Interceding in prayer.
- Drawing near to God with undivided attention.
Fasting must be accompanied by righteous living and sincerity. God rebuked those who fasted hypocritically:
“Is this not the fast that I have chosen: to loose the bonds of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens… and that you break every yoke?” (Isaiah 58:6)
Jesus warned against fasting for public recognition:
“Moreover, when you fast, do not be like the hypocrites, with a sad countenance… But you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face.” (Matthew 6:16–17)
True fasting is an act of devotion that aligns the heart with God’s will and strengthens the believer’s spiritual focus. It is not commanded for all occasions, but when done biblically, it is a powerful tool for spiritual growth and intimacy with the Lord.
“Now, therefore, says the Lord, ‘Turn to Me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning.'” (Joel 2:12)
Fasting remains a meaningful practice for believers who desire to seek God earnestly, discipline the flesh, and intercede with urgency.
