Biblical Answer

Why Fasting Before Making Big Decisions is Important

Fasting is a spiritual discipline that can help you slow down and get the big picture from God when making big decisions. When you fast, your body slows down, and you have time to reflect on the situation and seek God's guidance. Fasting can also help you evaluate your priorities and values, and it can expose areas of your soul that need grace and attention. As the Bible says, "Return to me with all your heart, and I will restore you to your rightful standing" (Joel 2:12-13).

Preparation is Key

Before you start fasting, it's essential to prepare yourself and your schedule. Identify why you're fasting and what you want God to do. Be specific and write it down. Plan your daily schedule, including mealtimes for prayer. Don't get so focused on the mechanics of fasting that you forget to pray. It's also crucial to link the severity of your crisis to the severity of your fast. If you're facing a minor problem, a one-day fast might be sufficient, but for more significant issues, you may need to fast for longer periods or involve others in the fasting process.

The Importance of Prayer and Fasting

Prayer and fasting go hand-in-hand. When you fast, you're not just giving up food, but you're spending time in the presence of God, seeking His guidance and wisdom. As the Bible says, "The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much" (James 5:16). Fasting can help you become more aware of your dependence on God and your need for His guidance and wisdom. By combining prayer and fasting, you can experience a deeper level of intimacy with God and make more informed decisions that align with His will. As Jesus said, "If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me" (Luke 9:23). Fasting is a way to deny yourself and follow Jesus, seeking His guidance and wisdom in all aspects of life.