Fasting is a spiritual practice we see throughout Scripture, but it’s one that many believers today might not fully understand or regularly practice. In our fast-paced, comfort-filled culture, the idea of going without food—or anything else we rely on—can feel strange or even extreme. Yet fasting, when done for the right reasons, is a powerful way to deepen our relationship with God.
Jesus assumed His followers would fast. In Matthew 6:16 (ESV), He says, “And when you fast…” — not if but when. He goes on to teach that fasting should be done quietly and sincerely, “and your Father who sees in secret will reward you” (Matthew 6:18, ESV). Fasting is not about drawing attention to ourselves; it’s about focusing our attention on the Lord.
Christian writer Donald Whitney reminds us that fasting is not about earning God’s favor or trying to get Him to do what we want. It’s about expressing a deep hunger for God Himself. He writes, “Fasting must always be centered on God.” Whether we are seeking guidance, praying for breakthrough, or simply longing to know God more deeply, fasting creates space for us to listen and respond to His voice.
Dallas Willard puts it this way: “Fasting confirms our utter dependence upon God by finding in Him a source of sustenance beyond food.” In other words, fasting teaches us that we don’t live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God (see Matthew 4:4, ESV).
In the Bible, people fasted to seek God’s direction (Acts 13:2–3), to mourn and repent (Joel 2:12), and to humble themselves before Him (Psalm 35:13). Even Jesus fasted—before beginning His public ministry, He spent forty days in the wilderness, preparing His heart and surrendering to His Father’s will (Matthew 4:2).
Fasting isn’t just for the spiritually elite; it’s for all who want to grow in grace and walk more closely with Christ. It can be as simple as skipping a meal to spend that time in prayer or stepping away from social media for a few days to be still before God.
As a church, we’re invited to explore this practice together—not as a burden, but as a blessing. Fasting helps us say “no” to distractions and “yes” to God. Let’s consider where God might be calling us to fast—individually or as a body—so that we might hunger more for Him and His presence in our lives.
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