Why do we need to fast? 

When we deny our appetite for worldly things, it leads us to focus on God.  When we suppress worldly hunger, we ramp up spiritual hunger. 


rounded_corners_large_fasting.pngDAY ONE: FOOD FAST
Philippians 4:11-13   “…for I have learned to be content with whatever I have.  I know what it is to have little, and I know what it is to have plenty.  In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of being well-fed and of going hungry, of having plenty and of being in need.  I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”

Abstain from food from daybreak until three p.m.  When you break the fast after three p.m., make sure to eat light, non-fatty foods (enchiladas and a bowl of queso may not be your best bet!).  Drink plenty of water.

Alternatives:  Drink juice and water from daybreak until three p.m.  Eat sparingly at breakfast and lunch so you are not fully satisfied.

During your fast…
Pray!  Focus on God and your dependence on God.  Ask God for the strength to be content in all circumstances.  Recite and reflect on Philippians 4:11-13.

Use breakfast time and/or lunchtime to prayerfully serve a neighbor in need by bringing food to them.

Contribute the money you would have spent on coffee, breakfast, and/or lunch to church missions.

Some cautions….
Do not fast if you are sick or under undue stress, suffer from a debilitating or chronic illness, are a child or elderly.

Be mindful of physical activity – do not over exert yourself.

If you have any concerns , consult your doctor.

DAY TWO: TV/MOVIE/VIDEO GAME FAST
Psalm 46:10 “ ‘Be still, and know that I am God!  I am exalted among the nations, I am exalted in the earth.’”

Abstain from watching television and movies, and playing video games for a full day (from the time you awake to the time you go to sleep for the night). 

During your fast…
Pray!  Use the time you normally would spend watching TV or movies and playing video games to be still and listen to God.  Recite and reflect on Psalm 46:10.
Spend this time prayerfully with your family and friends.  Thank God for the opportunity to spend this time with your loved ones.


DAY THREE: NON-ESSENTIAL PHONE, TEXTING, AND INTERNET FAST
Isaiah 30:15 “For thus said the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel: In returning and rest you shall be saved; in quietness and in trust shall be your strength.”

Abstain from all non-essential phone, texting, and use of internet for a full day (from the time you awake to the time you go to sleep for the night).  Yes, this includes email and Facebook – no, checking Facebook is NOT essential (you know who you are!)!

Go Further: Abstain from ALL phone, texting, and use of internet for an entire weekend.

During your fast…
Pray!  Thank God for rest and quietness.  Ask for deeper trust in God and the ability to surrender fully to God. Recite and reflect on Isaiah 30:15.

Where do we go from here?  Use these fasting ideas to develop seasons in your own life when you deny yourself some of the most valued aspects of your life.  Make fasting – in whatever shape it takes in your life – a consistent spiritual discipline to achieve clarity from God.