The Way Forward through Fasting

Most Christians have never been taught the value of fasting as a spiritual discipline, even though it is taught in both the Old and New Testaments and has had an important place throughout the history of the Church. So, we cannot dismiss fasting as either an Old Testament practice that was abrogated in the New Testament, or as a practice only of early Christians but not Christians today. With this as some background, there are 3 questions pertaining to this topic that we will consider:

1. What is fasting?
2. When should we fast?
3. How should we fast?

Takeaway: How could fasting be of help to you?

1. Are there times you should think of fasting in order to express sorrow for sin?
2. Are there times you should seek God’s direction through fasting regarding a major decision?
3. Would fasting help you to learn self-discipline and self-control?
4. Could it help you to identify with the poor?

If fasting has been a means that God has used to bring spiritual challenge and blessing to His people, then let’s fast in a way that recognizes that while God hates hypocrisy, He loves reality, and promises to draw near to those who diligently seek Him.