Overview of Fasting
“But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.”
– words of Jesus Christ in Matthew 4:4 (KJV)
Fasting, in the traditiontal sense, is the spiritual practice of denying yourself food and drink to focus on your relationship with God.
About Fasting
Traditional Biblical Definition
Abstaining from food and drink for a period of time – typically 24 hours (sunset to sunset) or during daylight (sunrise to sunset).
Goal / Purpose
Deepen your relationship with God by demonstrating physical discipline and submission to God.
Biblical Origins
The term “fast” is first recorded in Judges 20:26 (NASB) but the first practice is traditionally viewed as when Moses did not eat or drink for 40 days and 40 nights while in God’s presence at Mt. Sinai (Exodus 34:28).
MOC 7 Day Prayer and Fast
For 7 days, our Council prays according to the key term or phrase given to the overseer and fasts from sunrise to sunset according to what God has given each member.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is fasting required to get to Heaven?
We do not read in scripture where Jesus said it was a requirement to receive eternal life. However, Jesus practiced it regularly and said, “When you fast” (Matthew 6:17) which indicates fasting was such common practice it was considered part of practicing faith.
How often should we fast?
Jesus did not specifically say when we should fast. However, Jesus was raised in the Jewish tradition which includes six statutory fasts each year – two major and four minor. Major fasts last from sunset to sunset (or one full day). Minor fasts last from sunrise to sunset (about 1/2 a day depending upon the time of year and where you live). During these fasts, you do not eart or drink anything, unless you have a medical condition or other reason that would prohibit it (such as pregnancy).
In addition to the six statutory fasts, Jews often practiced personal fasts for special events like marriage and community fasts during special calls such as the Ninevites did in Jonah 3:5 when they responded to hearing God’s message for repentance. Further, Jesus entered a personal fast when he began his ministry (see Matthew 4:2).
We recommend that you fast as often as you are led to do so by God with a goal of doing it at least once a year.
Do I have to do the “Daniel Fast”?
No, the “Daniel Fast” is not required.
Daniel restricted his food and drink to vegetables and water for 10 days to prove to King Nebuchadnezzar’s commander that eating the kosher foods available would not bring harm to himself or his friends (Daniel 1:1-14). Daniel continued to eat only vegetables and water while Nebuchadnezzar reigned. In Daniel 10, Daniel abstained from eating any delicate food or drink for 21 days while under the reign of King Cyrus as a sign of mourning.
Traditional fasts are when you completely abstain from eating or drinking for a period of time. However, the intent behind Daniel’s restrictions and traditional fasting are the same: to draw closer to God through physical discipline and submission.
How long should I fast?
You should fast for however long God tells you to fast. We do not recommend a set number of hours or days as God knows your specific situation and needs.
How is fasting different than Lent?
Lent began as a practice sometime after Jesus’s resurrection. It is not mentioned in the Bible and does not specifically call for people to avoid eating and drinking. We understand from historical documents that early Christians practiced fasting and praying for 40 days before celebrating Easter. However, Lent today is practiced as a time to give up something we desire in an effort to focus more time and attention to God. So, while people may fast during Lent, Lent is a broader practice of simply giving up something for 40 days prior to Easter.