My brothers and sisters as I write this article/letter or whatever you want to call it. The reason I’m writing you is because It’s been convicted in my heart about fasting and Do I fully understand the practice of fasting and praying? Are we fasting as the body of the church seeking a deeper spiritual relationship and guidance with Lord our deliverer and refuge?
In today’s world, fasting is a concept that’s often associated with health trends, particularly those advertised on social media, where it is promoted as a way to lose weight and improve physical well-being. Yet, fasting is much deeper than just a physical practice—it’s a spiritual discipline with profound implications for our relationship with God. It has been practiced across various cultures and religions, including Islam and Buddhism, and it holds significant importance in Christianity as well.
Mathew 6:16-18, when Jesus speaks directly about fasting.
“When you fast, do not somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you they have received their reward in full. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious your others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen and your father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”
This passage shows that fasting is an expectation—not just a suggestion. Jesus says, "when you fast," not "if you fast," making it clear that fasting is an important spiritual practice. But why do we fast? The answer lies in our relationship with God and our desire to deepen that connection. Fasting is spiritual practice where we get closer in our relationship with the Lord and show obedience.
But as I reflect on the practice of fasting, I can’t help but ask myself some hard questions: Am I fasting? Have I spoken to my family about fasting? As a body of the church, are we fasting together (Koinonia), seeking a deeper spiritual relationship and guidance from the Lord?
Fasting and Spiritual Life
Now, we in the western hemisphere have emphasized mind over body, not both. Fasting isn’t just about abstaining from food. It's about removing distractions and giving our full attention to God. As Christians, our bodies are referred to as "the Temple of the Holy Spirit" (1 Corinthians 6:19), and fasting is a way to honor God through the discipline of surrendering our earthly appetites to focus on spiritual growth. Jesus began His ministry by fasting for 40 days (Matthew 4:1-2), and He set the example for us to follow.
Fasting is a deep personal journey, and it’s important to recognize that everyone’s experience with fasting will be different. Each of us may face different medical or personal challenges, and so it’s crucial not to compare our fasts with others. God knows our hearts, and He is aware of the reasons behind our fasting. Therefore, the real question is: Am I fasting?
Spiritual Benefits of Fasting and Praying
While fasting may be difficult, the benefits are immense. Here are several key spiritual benefits of fasting and prayer:
- Spiritual Renewal
- Verse: Isaiah 58:6-9
"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?"
Fasting allows for spiritual renewal that goes beyond mere physical refreshment. It helps us reconnect with God’s heart for justice, mercy, and love. Through fasting, we experience a transformation that shifts our focus from self to others and helps us recalibrate our priorities to align with God’s Kingdom. Fasting helps revive areas in our lives that feel dry or stagnant, offering a fresh perspective and reigniting our passion for God.
- Increased Intimacy with God
- Verse: James 4:8
"Come near to God and He will come near to you."
Fasting creates space for God in our lives. It’s a spiritual hunger that drives us to seek God with greater intensity, leading to deeper intimacy with Him. It forces us to rely on God rather than the comforts we usually depend on, such as food or distractions. Through prayer and fasting, we have the opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations with the Creator.
- Spiritual Strength and Resistance to Temptation
- Verse: Matthew 4:4
"Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God."
Just as Jesus fasted in the wilderness to resist the temptations of the enemy, fasting gives us spiritual strength to overcome temptation. It reminds us that our true sustenance comes from God’s Word, not from physical food. Fasting helps us resist worldly desires and refocus on what truly nourishes our souls.
- Deliverance from Strongholds
- Verse: Mark 9:29
"This kind can come out only by prayer and fasting."
Some challenges in our lives require more than ordinary prayers. They require fasting—a form of spiritual warfare. When we fast, we invite God’s power to break chains of sin, addiction, or any stronghold that seeks to keep us captive. Through fasting and prayer, we acknowledge our dependence on God’s strength rather than our own.
- Clarity and Discernment
- Verse: Acts 13:2-3
"While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.'"
Fasting helps sharpen our spiritual senses, clearing away the noise of the world. It makes space for the Holy Spirit to speak to us with clarity and precision. When we fast, we become more receptive to God’s guidance and able to discern His will for our lives.
- Deepened Humility and Repentance
- Verse: 2 Chronicles 7:14
"If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land."
Fasting humbles us, reminding us that we are nothing without God. It brings us to a place of repentance, allowing us to turn away from sin and receive God’s forgiveness. Through fasting, we experience a deepening of humility, recognizing our need for God’s grace and restoration.
- Strengthened Faith
- Verse: Luke 11:9-10
"So I say to you: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you."
Fasting is an act of faith. It is a declaration that we trust God to provide for our spiritual and physical needs. As we hunger for God, we strengthen our belief that He will meet us in our weakest moments and provide abundantly.
A Sacred Invitation to Transformation
Fasting is more than just a spiritual discipline—it is an invitation to transformation. As we engage in fasting and prayer, we open ourselves to spiritual maturity, greater dependence on God, and a closer relationship with Him. Fasting isn’t just for times of crisis—it’s a daily opportunity to grow in our walk with God, becoming more like Christ and walking in the fullness of His calling.
In conclusion, I hope this article has sparked some thoughts and conversations about fasting in your own life. The goal is not to guilt anyone into fasting but to invite each of us to reflect individually on where we are spiritually. As Paul reminds us, "Our bodies are the Temple of the Holy Spirit" (1 Corinthians 6:19), and we should live in a way that honors God. Our lives should be organized in these goals; to be with Jesus, to become like Jesus and Live as He did.
I would like to give all the Glory to our Lord and Savior who provides us guidance.
I also want to thank my daughter, Natalia Estrada, who collaborated with me on this article. It has been a blessing to see her walking alongside me, using her talents for God’s Kingdom.
God bless you and your family,
Eliu Estrada