Fasting

Biblical fasting involves intentionally abstaining from food to dedicate time to prayer and spiritual growth. While Jesus presented fasting as an expected practice, it must be done privately and with pure motives. This spiritual discipline helps believers draw closer to God, hear His voice more clearly, and put physical desires in submission to spiritual growth. The practice often accompanies major decisions, times of repentance, or periods of seeking spiritual breakthrough.

Key Verses: 

Matthew 6:16-18, Joel 2:12-13, Isaiah 58:3-7, Acts 13:2-3, Psalm 34:18

Key Takeaways:

Biblical fasting is specifically about abstaining from food for spiritual purposes.

Fasting should be done in private, not for public recognition.

Fasting without prayer is merely dieting.

Discomfort in fasting helps us grow spiritually.

Fasting helps us hear God's voice more clearly by removing distractions.

Reflection Questions:

What misconceptions about fasting have you held in the past?

Why do you think Jesus emphasized keeping fasting private rather than public?

How does fasting help us hear God's voice more clearly?

What role does discomfort play in our spiritual growth?

How can fasting be used as a response to personal or community challenges?

What's the difference between fasting and dieting according to the sermon?

How can we ensure our fasting is genuine and not just for show?

What specific spiritual goals would you like to achieve through fasting?

Practical Application: 

Choose one meal per day to fast from during the 40-day period, and dedicate that mealtime to prayer and Bible reading. Keep a journal of what God reveals to you during these times of focused devotion.