Biblical Answer

The Biblical Mandate for Fasting

In the Bible, fasting is not just a suggestion, but a commanded practice for God's people. The prophet Isaiah writes, "Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke?" (Isaiah 58:6). This kind of fasting is not just about abstaining from food, but about using our fasting as a means to seek God's heart and will for our lives. When we fast, we are not just slowing down our physical bodies, but also our spiritual pace, allowing us to get a clearer picture of God's plan for us.

The Benefits of Fasting in Decision-Making

Fasting can be a powerful tool in helping us make big decisions. When we fast, we are forced to slow down and evaluate our priorities, our motivations, and our desires. This can be especially helpful when we are faced with difficult choices or uncertain situations. By fasting, we can gain a clearer understanding of God's will for our lives and make decisions that align with His plan. As the author of the provided information suggests, "Fasting slows me down and gives me time to get the big picture from God." This is not just a personal benefit, but also a spiritual one, as we learn to trust God's sovereignty and guidance in our lives.

Practical Guidelines for Fasting

While fasting can be a powerful tool, it's not a one-size-fits-all approach. The Bible encourages us to be flexible and adapt our fasting to our needs and circumstances. The author suggests that we "link the severity of your crisis to the severity of your fast." This means that if we are facing a minor problem, a one-day fast may be sufficient, while a more serious crisis may require a longer fast. It's also important to have a clear reason for fasting, as well as a specific prayer request and outcome in mind. By following these guidelines, we can use fasting as a means to deepen our relationship with God and make decisions that are guided by His wisdom and will. Ultimately, fasting is not just about abstaining from food, but about seeking God's heart and will for our lives. As the author notes, "Fasting is hard, especially at first. Though it grows much easier with regular practice." With regular practice, we can learn to trust God's sovereignty and guidance in our lives, and make decisions that align with His plan.