In a recent bible study session with some friends the topic of fasting came up, specifically, should Christians fast? Fasting is the discipline of going without food and/ or drink and for our purposes it would be in a religious sense.
One mentioned a popular resource they use and we reviewed it.
It bothered my spirit.
In summary of what it said, it noted that Jesus did speak of fasting but it was not something he was known for and it was something he did not command.
Seriously!
This is why we need to each spend our time in the bible and study it for ourselves.
Bible Insight
It was something he was not known for… yet one of the greatest bible stories spoke of it:
“Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry.” Matthew 4:1-2
He did not command it… but yet he was clear on it:
““When you fast, do not look 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 to 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.” Matthew 6:16-18
It states when you fast …. not if you fast. So should Christians fast? The bible says a resounding ‘yes’!
There are many different references in the bible where Jesus taught (great examples is the Sermon on the Mount) us many different lessons which he never finished it as “I command you” but it is clear that by following what HE taught it will do the following for us:
1) Build our relationship with Christ
2) Spread God’s word and light to the world
Fasting allows you to connect with God on a closer level. It is a time that in your suffering, you pray and seek God’s face.
There are different forms and types of biblical fasting which I will encourage you to study.
I am not a famous theologian but a simple woman who is thirsty and have an un-quenching desire to know God. And in this I feel the Spirit calling me to spread this message.
Food for thought: Do we want to remain stagnant and stale in our relationship with Christ or do we want to grow and become closer to HIM? Develop a discipline of fasting with prayer.
Prayer: Father, forgive those that mislead or try to confuse your flock. Teach us to read your word, to study and pray over it so that we will garner your wisdom and understanding for ourselves. I pray for all that is reading this post, that they develop a discipline of fasting and prayer so that they can grow closer to you Mighty God. In Jesus name. Amen
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