Why We Fast Part 1: The One Where I Get Really Excited

You’ll be hard pressed to find someone more passionate about fasting! In this episode, you can hear the energy in Joy’s voice as she begins to outline why we fast. This isn’t just a look at the spiritual side of fasting, but it’s a combination of the physical benefits of fasting that science is currently uncovering. If you need a little push to motivate you to begin a rhythm of fasting, this is the episode for you.

Pull up a chair here at The Mentor's Table, and join the discussion as we continue this multi-part series on the spiritual discipline of fasting. What has your experience been with fasting? Let us know in the comments.

Fasting Resources to Get You Started: (Contains affiliate links)

BOOKS

God's Chosen Fast by Arthur Wallis. This tiny but mighty book is life-changing! As the subtitle states, it's "a spiritual and practical guide to fasting." That's it. Order it now. You won't regret it.

Celebration of Discipline by Richard Foster. This is the book I mentioned that compares spiritual disciplines to a trellis.

Practicing the Way by John Mark Comer.

PODCASTS

START HERE: “We Don’t Talk About Fasting, No, No” The first episode from this series. 

"To Starve the Flesh and Feed the Spirit" on the John Mark Comer Teachings Podcast. You'll recognize a lot of this content because this is where I first learned it all! 

"Luminary Interview: Dr. Alison Cook" For those of you who have a difficult relationship with food, fasting is way less accessible. Here's a great conversation with a licensed therapist and follower of Jesus who talks you through how to approach fasting.

"Fasting (ft. Tyler Staton) | Unforced Rhythms of Grace E6" While this is on JMC's teaching podcast, the it's actually Tyler Staton (pastor of Bridgetown Church) who is teaching, and he does a fantastic job providing a different voice and angle to the subject.

The Miracle Doctor: EVERYONE should start fasting right now! (New Science) Dr. Mindy Pelz. This is the resource I offer with disclaimers: Dr. Pelz comes from purely a scientific background. This episode contains explicit language.

RESOURCES

Practicing the Way 4-week small group curriculum on fasting. This curriculum is completely free! It's beautiful, practical, and easy to navigate. Anyone can sign up (you don't have to lead a small group through it--but it does add more depth). You will have to create a login to be able to access it.