What is Fasting? A Biblical Perspective

Fasting is the intentional abstinence from food (or other things) for a spiritual purpose, often paired with prayer, repentance, and seeking God’s presence. It is an act of humility, devotion, and faith, demonstrating reliance on God instead of worldly sustenance.

Throughout the Bible, fasting is presented as a powerful spiritual discipline that brings breakthroughs, wisdom, strength, and deeper intimacy with God.

1. Fasting as a Means of Seeking God

Jeremiah 29:13 (KJV) – "And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart."

Fasting is a way to draw nearer to God, clearing distractions and refocusing on His will. Many biblical figures fasted during critical moments, showing that fasting helps believers seek divine direction and clarity.

Example: Moses Fasting on Mount Sinai

Moses fasted for 40 days and nights while receiving the commandments.

Exodus 34:28 (KJV) – "And he was there with the Lord forty days and forty nights; he did neither eat bread, nor drink water."

His fasting was a time of intense spiritual communion, proving that fasting invites God's revelation and guidance.

2. Fasting as a Sign of Repentance

Joel 2:12 (KJV) – "Therefore also now, saith the Lord, turn ye even to me with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning."

In moments of deep repentance, fasting is used to express sorrow for sin and a desire for renewal.

Example: The People of Nineveh Fasting for Forgiveness

When Jonah warned Nineveh of destruction, the people fasted as a sign of repentance, pleading for mercy.

Jonah 3:5 (KJV) – "So the people of Nineveh believed God, and proclaimed a fast, and put on sackcloth, from the greatest of them even to the least of them."

Their fasting led to God sparing their city, proving that fasting is a powerful act of repentance and humility before God.

3. Fasting for Strength in Spiritual Battles

Matthew 4:2 (KJV) – "And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was afterward an hungred."

Jesus fasted in the wilderness before facing the enemy’s temptations, proving that fasting strengthens believers for spiritual battles.

Example: Jesus Overcoming Temptation Through Fasting

During His 40-day fast, Jesus resisted Satan’s temptations with the Word of God (Matthew 4:1-11).

His fasting shows that spiritual discipline empowers believers to stand firm against the enemy.

4. Fasting for Breakthrough and Deliverance

Isaiah 58:6 (KJV) – "Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free?"

Fasting is a powerful tool for breaking strongholds, receiving miracles, and experiencing deliverance.

Example: Esther Fasting for Her People’s Protection

Before approaching the king, Esther called for a three-day fast to seek divine intervention.

Esther 4:16 (KJV) – "Fast ye for me, and neither eat nor drink three days, night or day."

Through fasting, God gave Esther favor, saving her people from destruction.

Conclusion: The Power of Fasting

Fasting is a sacred practice that deepens faith, strengthens spiritual resolve, and opens doors to divine intervention.

Through fasting, believers can:

Seek God’s presence and guidance (Jeremiah 29:13)

Repent and experience renewal (Joel 2:12)

Gain strength in spiritual warfare (Matthew 4:2)

Receive breakthroughs and deliverance (Isaiah 58:6)

Fasting is not just abstaining from food—it is an intentional act of faith that invites God’s power into every area of life. Learn more about fasting from the video teaching of Bishop Charlene M. Jamison.

Dr. D. Devon Griffin, Author

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