Biblical Answer

The Importance of Fasting

Fasting, as a spiritual discipline, is an essential practice that Jesus emphasizes in the Bible. He assumes that his followers will fast, and in fact, he says, And when you fast (Matt. 6:16). This suggests that fasting is a normal part of the Christian life, and Jesus expects his disciples to engage in it regularly. However, he also warns against fasting as a means of impressing others or seeking to be seen as holy. Instead, fasting should be a private and personal act of devotion to God.

The Purpose of Fasting

The purpose of fasting, according to Jesus, is not to change the external circumstances of our lives, but to change our inner spiritual state. Fasting is a way of repenting before God and seeking a deeper relationship with him. As Jesus says, "When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting" (Matt. 6:16). Instead, we should fast with a single-minded focus on God, trusting in his compassionate care and provision. This means that fasting should be a voluntary act, not something we do out of obligation or to follow a rule.

Practical Application of Fasting

In practical terms, Jesus does not provide specific instructions on how to fast, but he assumes that his followers will fast. This means that we should seek to fast regularly, even if it's just for one or two meals. We should not fast to impress others or to seek to be seen as holy, but rather to deepen our relationship with God and to seek his guidance and provision. As Jesus says, "The days will come, when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast" (Matt. 9:15). This suggests that fasting will become a more prominent practice in the future, and we should seek to cultivate a spirit of fasting and prayer in our lives.