Lesson ▪ 1998 Tags: Fasting Excerpted from Perspectives on Fasting
- The comparative study of religion reveals that fasting is
usually carried out with one of three motivations: preparation, purification,
or supplication (Rader 5:287). These three purposes are visible in the
Christian discipline of fasting.
- Jesus fasted prior to beginning his earthly ministry (Mt
4.1-2). Paul fasted in anticipation of direction from the Lord (Acts 9.6-9). The
early Christians fasted before commissioning church leaders (Acts 13.2-3;
14.23).
- There are numerous biblical examples of fasting as a
demonstration of genuine repentance. Among those who fasted for purification
one finds Ahab (1 K 21.27-29), the city of Nineveh (Jon 3.4-10), and Ezra (Ezra
9.5ff).
- David prayed and fasted for the healing of his sick child (2
Sam 12.16-17). Nehemiah fasted and prayed that his vision of restoring
Jerusalem to its former glory would be fulfilled (Neh 1.3-4). Anna maintained a
regular discipline of fasting and prayer (Lk 2.36-37).
- Fasting
is a balanced spiritual discipline that lies between the excesses of indulgence
and asceticism. It stands in contrast to the carnality of gluttonous desire
(Wallis 77-87) and the error of punishing the body for supposed spiritual gain
(88-93). Scripture condemns both the former (Prov 23.1-3; 1 Cor 6.12-13) and
the latter (Col 2.20-23; 1 Tim 4.1-5).
- Both
Scripture and history attest to the fact that fasting and prevailing prayer are
often closely linked. However, it is improper to view fasting as a means of
forcing God to do what we ask him to do. God is sovereign, and we cannot
suppose that we are stronger than he. Fasting is a useful discipline to the
extent that it helps us to discern and obey God’s will. It should not be used in
an attempt to impose our selfish interests on God’s program.
- What is
the purpose of fasting, then? Fasting is really a means of freeing ourselves to
get in touch with God’s plan for our lives. While it is probably true that
prayer—not fasting—brings about spiritual results, it is also apparent that
fasting enables our prayer lives to reach new heights of devotion and power.
The impact of fasting on our spiritual lives is difficult to measure with
precision. But there is evidence that it is associated with positive outcomes.
- It is
imperative to remember that while fasting is a spiritual discipline, it is also
a physical act. (In fact, some people fast solely for health reasons.) As a
physical act it should be carried out with respect for truth in the nutritional
realm. The Creator and Sustainer of our bodies gains no glory from a discipline
that diminishes our health. It seems reasonable to assume that some people
(such as expectant mothers and diabetics) should not fast.
- Wallis
suggests a number of practical guidelines to be observed before, during, and
after a fast (106-17, 142-46):
- Accustom yourself to short fasts (one day or less) before
attempting longer ones.
- Make a point to drink generous amounts of water during the
fast.
- Expect
some physical discomfort during the fast. Fasting allows the body to eliminate
toxins from its systems, a somewhat unpleasant process.
- Resume
normal eating habits gradually after breaking a fast, especially if you have
fasted for several days. Drink fruit juices until your body is ready to accept
solid food. Avoid meat until your body has adjusted to fruits, vegetables, and
starches.
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