The Bible is filled with verses about fasting. In fact, fasting is one of the oldest forms of spiritual discipline known to mankind. Fasting is mentioned throughout the Bible, and there are many different reasons why people fast.
Let’s look at some of the Bible verses that talk about fasting. We will also discuss the benefits of fasting and how it can help you grow closer to God.
Why Do We Fast?
There are many different reasons why people fast, but one of the most common reasons is to seek God’s guidance and wisdom. When we fast, we are setting aside time to focus on prayer and communication with God. We are also humbling ourselves before God and acknowledging our need and dependence on Him.
Fasting can also be a way to show sorrow or repentance for our sins. In the book of Jonah, the people of Nineveh fasted and prayed when they heard Jonah preach about God’s judgment (Jonah 3).
Fasting can also be a way to show solidarity with someone who is going through a difficult time. For example, Esther fasted and prayed for three days before she went before the king to plead for her people (Esther 4).
What are the Benefits of Fasting?
There are many benefits to fasting, both physically and spiritually. Physically, fasting can help us lose weight, detoxify our bodies, and improve our digestion. It can also help us to control our appetite and eat healthier foods.
Spiritually, fasting can help us to grow closer to God. It can also be a way for us to show our humility and dependence on God.
Additionally, fasting can help us to focus on prayer and communication with God. It can also be a way for us to repent for our sins and seek forgiveness from God.
5 Bible Verses About Fasting
There are different types of reasons why people fasted in the Bible and some of these you’ll see below.
Fasting for God’s Glory
One of the most well-known verses about fasting is from Matthew 6:16. In this verse, Jesus tells his disciples that when they fast, they should do so in secret.
This means that we should not fast for the purpose of impressing others or seeking attention. Instead, we should fast to please God and to grow our relationship with Him.
The Power of Fasting
Another important verse about fasting is from Isaiah 58:11. In this verse, God tells His people that they will receive His blessings when they fast.
He promises that they will be filled with energy and joy, and their prayers will be heard. Fasting can be a powerful way to draw closer to God and to receive His blessings.
Days and Nights of Fasting
In the Old Testament, Moses fasted for 40 days while he was on Mount Sinai receiving the Ten Commandments (Exodus 34:28).
Elijah also fasted for 40 days before he was taken up into heaven (1 Kings 19). In the New Testament, Jesus fasted for 40 days and nights in the desert (Matthew 4).
Summary
If you are considering fasting, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, it is important to pray and ask God if He is leading you to fast.
Fasting is a serious spiritual discipline, and it should not be undertaken lightly. Second, if you do feel led by God to fast, be sure to set aside enough time to do it properly.
Fasting can be a powerful way to grow closer to God and to receive His blessings.
