More of You- 7 Day Fasting Guide to Empty Ourselves and Be Filled With God's PresenceShembull

DAY 1: What is the purpose of Fasting?

In the Bible we see many reasons for fasting. All of them have a similar theme. To draw closer and experience the presence of God on a deeper level. Whether you are seeking guidance, provision, freedom, healing or intimacy with the Lord, it’s so important to understand that even though fasting is a commitment, and in many ways a sacrifice to be taken seriously; it can produce so much joy and exponential growth in our faith.

We tend to describe fasting as ‘creating a spiritual hunger by starving the flesh.’

There are many practical ways to ‘fast’. The most common type of fast is going without physical food for a set period of time, and instead of eating, dedicating that time in prayer, worship or reading the Bible.

However, as a family with kids in different ages, we have practiced regular seasons of fasting that still accomplish the same goal; but have ‘gone without’ various types of things that still ‘starve the flesh’ and also generate an intentional awareness to fill our spirits.

We often hear from people how they’d genuinely be open to fasting, but it feels like there are so many barriers, unknowns or concerns making it difficult to know where to start.

So, I want to share very practically with you what has worked for us over the years. Ultimately, the Holy Spirit can guide and tailor the suggestions below to what will best work for your life, situation and unique family/friendship dynamics. Here are some things that have helped us live out the heart and purpose of fasting.

1. Have a heart conversation with your kids or friend circle in advance; prepare them before you start that a fast is coming and why you are doing it. For families, do this even if they are busy toddlers or grumpy teenagers. In the same way we don’t ask if they want to go to school, participate in family vacations or develop healthy life habits, we choose not to ask if they want to participate. We share why we believe it matters and get creative on ways everyone can engage.
2. Determine the length of the fast, then commit to see it through together for the duration. If you are new to fasting, it's ok to start slowly and let it grow into a bigger commitment.
3. Decide what you are fasting FOR and what you are fasting FROM. Write this out as a group AND individually. Using a physical month printed calendar is a great tool / visual.

In tomorrow's devo, I’ll share what this looks like practically and how this was the biggest game changer for us; especially helping our children (or those newer to this spiritual practice) understand the purpose or “why” behind fasting.