All InSample

Fasting seems to be a discipline too many disciples avoid in their spiritual walk. It is as if we believe that fasting is only “Old Testament” and no longer applies to us today. But, if we leave fasting in the rearview mirror of history, we will miss a door God is opening for us to experience Him in greater ways, especially when we are in a bind. 

Matthew 9:14 poses this question: Then the disciples of John came to Him, asking, “Why do we and the Pharisees fast, but Your disciples do not fast?” 

The same question could easily be heard today in most churches. Jesus’ response was:

“The attendants of the bridegroom cannot mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them, can they? But the days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast.” 

Today is the day. Jesus has been taken away and we should fast. Matthew uses the words fast and mourn interchangeably; maybe because when we are grieving or mourning, these emotions tend to dominate our minds—just as when we fast, food dominates the mind. People tell me that after a number of days they no longer feel hungry. For me, that is never true! But, I am more hungry for God than food. 

Jesus promised, “...those who mourn will be comforted.” Our Comforter is the Holy Spirit. As we fast, we seek the Lord for His favor and blessing. This is not a way to lose weight, but a way to gain the weighty presence of the Lord. As we learn and experience the Lord together, we will grow personally and corporately like only the Lord can accomplish. 

During this fast, let’s go all in and seek God. Let’s ask Him to fire up our hearts. Let’s burn so brightly all will come to watch us burn for the Lord. There were many different fasts in the Bible and each one had a purpose. Here are just a few: 

Elijah’s fast was to overcome habits.

Samuel’s fast was to see revival and transformation.

Ezra’s fast was to solve problems.

Daniel’s fast was for physical health and healing.

Esther’s fast was for protection.

John the Baptist’s fast was for a testimony.

The widow’s fast was to feed the hungry and care for the poor.

The Disciples’ fast was for breaking sin’s addiction.

Paul’s fast was to make decisions and gain insight. 

Whether it is for one of these reasons or something equally as powerful —let’s go all in and see what God can do in our lives.