Fasting

Sunday, January 11th, 2026

3:20 pm

Good afternoon! Today I am in Matthew 6:16-18. Jesus tells us that when we fast to not be like the hypocrites that try to look miserable and disheveled, so people will admire them. But instead, do as you normally would, combing your hair and washing your face, so no one will be able to tell that you are fasting. But our Father in heaven will know, and He will reward us.

Fasting is when we go without food for a period of time giving us more time to spend in prayer. When we do this, we draw closer to God during that time, allowing God to sustain us. For Jesus tells us He is the bread of life (John 6:48-51) and the living water (John 7:37-38). He is the one that supplies our every need. When our souls are spiritually hungry and thirsty, we can turn to Jesus and He will fill us up. His Word is food and water for our souls. Fasting also teaches us self-discipline, reminds us that we can live on a lot less, and helps us appreciate God's gifts. When we fast, He wants us to do it quietly and with a sincere heart. It is not for us to put on a show for other people, but to draw closer to God.

Have you ever fasted? Fasting is not easy, but when you do it for God, He will help you with it, if you ever feel the need to fast. If you are ever going through a time that you have to make a major decision, fasting and praying can help you seek God's guidance better. If you are interceding in prayer for someone or a group of people, whatever God places on your heart, fast and pray and ask God to intervene in the situation. God loves when we spend that time with Him. When He wants you to fast He will put it on your heart, and He will get you through that time. There is no length of time that you have to fast, or specific situations when you have to. It's just when ever God puts it on your heart and you feel the need to. It can be for whatever period of time that you feel. Don't allow people to pressure you into fasting, if you do you will not be doing it for the right reasons. You will be doing it out of obligation, not a sincere heart, and it will be very difficult. Allow God to guide you when the time is right. He will.