Barnes in Common

the magazine of Churches Together in Barnes
January/February 2007

Home
Current issue
Previous issues
Noticeboard
Discussion board
About CTiB

Prayer and Fasting

by Graham Pulham

Fasting is an aspect of Christianity that has become almost entirely neglected in modern theology and practice. True, there is no specific biblical command that Christians should fast but as with prayer Jesus, it seems, takes it for granted that his followers will practise fasting. He says not "if" but "when you fast", Matthew 6:16. Again, if Jesus felt the need to fast how much more so should we? So what is fasting and why is it important? What does it do and how does it do it?

Here is one definition of fasting,

'Fasting is the voluntary denial of things which ordinarily and in themselves are quite lawful and legitimate, in order that the face of God may be sought in earnest, definite, persistent and believing prayer.' Francis Dixon

So, three important things to note:

1. fasting should be undertaken on a voluntary basis and not enforced by others
2. fasting consists of denying to ourselves those things which would otherwise be lawful and legitimate for us to do or have
3. all times of fasting should be accompanied by times of prayer

The length of fast may differ greatly, from a few hours to a few days. The thing(s) given up may also differ greatly from chocolate to TV. There's a danger of making it all sound rather trivial - but as with all disciplines you've got to start somewhere, and it's best to begin with a realistic expectation of being able to complete what you've set out to do. As C.S.Lewis wrote, 'Every missed meal can be converted into a fast if taken in the right way.'

The main type of fasting practised is, of course, that concerning food and that's what I'll concentrate on for the rest of this item.

In scripture we find fasting being practised on a national (Jonah 3:6-7), fellowship (Acts 14:23) and individual (Matthew 4:2) basis. Three kinds of fasting can be identified,

1. 'natural' fast - no food, Luke 4:2
2. 'absolute' fast - no food, drink, Ezra 10:6
3. 'partial' fast - restricted diet, Daniel 10:3

But why fast? Well, here are some of the main reasons we find in scripture:

• to show God we mean business, we are sincere
• to show God we are truly sorry
• to get God to change His mind (on matters not endorsed by His oath)
• to clarify God's will
• for blessing & empowering
• because of unanswered prayer

A period of fasting also helps us to

• give more time to prayer
• empathise with the hungry, and suffering as we pray for them
• further identify with the sufferings of the Lord during Lent and Holy Week
• increase our spiritual and mental alertness
• prepare us for the possible harder times ahead

Finally, some words of caution. First, spiritually. Beware spiritual pride (see Matt 6:16-18). A decision to fast is best kept a secret between you and God. Also, remember that fasting is not a means to bend God's arm (see Luke 18:9-14), neither does it ensure immediate results. Also be aware that you may be more vulnerable to the devil when you fast (see Matthew 4:1-11), thus the necessity for prayer. Secondly, some words of physical caution. Do not fast without drinking plenty of liquids (in scripture 'absolute fasts' last no longer than 3 days). Do not fast when there is a health problem. It's always wise to seek medical advice if you have any doubts and then ensure someone you trust keeps an eye on you. Finally, beware euphoric deception: emotional 'highs' may have more to do with physical detox than with spiritual ecstasy!

How much more spiritual power is there to be unleashed for the Christian or the Church that practises fasting? Perhaps in this biblical practice there lies the means for a great spiritual breakthrough in you and your church's life? If that is so let us pray that the Lord will speak to us and guide us in this matter, according to His will.
_______________________________________________

Extract taken from a sermon on Prayer and Fasting with material from Understanding Theology by R.T.Kendall

Back to the top