What Does the Bible Say About Fasting?
Key Scriptures and spiritual guidance on fasting
Fasting is mentioned throughout the Bible as a spiritual practice intended to draw individuals closer to God. In the Old Testament, fasting was often associated with mourning, repentance, and seeking God's guidance. For example, in the book of Joel, God calls His people to fast as a way to return to Him with all their hearts (Joel 2:12-13). This highlights the importance of sincerity and intention behind the act of fasting.
In the New Testament, Jesus speaks about fasting in the Sermon on the Mount, instructing His followers not to fast for show but to do so in secret, where only God can see their devotion (Matthew 6:16-18). This emphasizes that the heart's posture is more important than the outward appearance of piety. Jesus Himself fasted for 40 days in the wilderness, setting an example of reliance on God during times of physical weakness (Matthew 4:1-2).
Fasting can also be a means of prayer and seeking God's will. In Acts 13:2-3, the early church fasted while worshiping the Lord and praying, which led to the Holy Spirit guiding them in their mission. This demonstrates that fasting can be a powerful tool for spiritual discernment and community guidance.
Overall, the Bible presents fasting as a personal and communal practice that should be approached with humility and sincerity. It serves as a way to deepen one's relationship with God, seek His direction, and express devotion and repentance.
Bible Verses About Fasting
Matthew 6:16KJV
“Moreover when ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance: for they disfigure their faces, that they may appear unto men to fast. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.”
Isaiah 58:6KJV
“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, and that ye break every yoke?”
Luke 4:2KJV
“Being forty days tempted of the devil. And in those days he did eat nothing: and when they were ended, he afterward hungered.”
Joel 2:12KJV
“Therefore also now, saith the LORD, turn ye even to me with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning:”
The Acts of the Apostles 13:3KJV
“And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.”
Matthew 4:2KJV
“And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was afterward an hungred.”
1 Corinthians 7:5KJV
“Defraud ye not one the other, except it be with consent for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency.”
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