The Spiritual Discipline Of Fasting

 

TALKING TO GOD

Ask the Holy Spirit to help you be more aware of God’s generosity.

DIVING IN

Write these categories on separate slips of paper: after-school activity, toy or electronic gadget, snack, drink, TV show. Place the folded slips in a bowl. Have each person draw a slip, read the category and name one favourite thing in that category. Discuss how difficult it might be to give up each favourite item.

GOING DEEPER

Fasting means giving up something you enjoy or need for a specific period of time. In the Old Testament, fasting was common for entire nations who were seeking God’s help or direction (2 Chronicles 20:3, Jonah 3:5). In the New Testament, Jesus fasted (Matthew 4:2) and taught His disciples about fasting (Matthew 6:17-18). (Note: Fasting from food is not always a good idea for children or pregnant women. They can consider giving up something else that they really want or like.)

Fasting allows you to focus your time and attention on God. When combined with prayer and reading God’s Word, fasting strengthens your faith and helps you become more confident of God’s power.

TALKING TO EACH OTHER

• How does fasting bring you closer to God?
• What is one thing you enjoy that you can give up for a day?