Fasting Is A Spiritual Tool
Fasting Is A Spiritual Tool | January 31, 2024
I am by no means a handyman, but thanks to my dad and owning a home over the years, I have become productive regarding repairs and new projects. These undertakings require tools, whether hanging light fixtures, changing outlets, unclogging pipes, fixing doors and steps, or painting. Thankfully, in my garage, I have two toolboxes, one bin of various supplies, and a few boxes of screws. I also have electric saws, plumbing snakes, and two ladders. However, one of my most valuable tools is my drill. Oh, I love my drill!
When it comes to my relationship with God, a spiritual tool that I like to use is fasting. Like my drill, fasting has proven to be highly productive. When I think of fasting, my thoughts shift to the Scriptures because it is mentioned or indicated over 8o times throughout the Bible. Although fasting is not commanded, it is discussed so much in the Bible and proves so powerful that it is a tool we should not neglect! Primarily, fasting involves the withholding of food.
Jesus taught on fasting several times in the Bible and recorded His own fasting. Therefore, besides other accounts, the Lord Himself provides much content and context concerning this effective spiritual tool. Here is one of those examples found in Matthew 6:16-19 where Jesus said, "And when you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. 17 But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, 18 that your fasting may not be seen by others but by your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you."
Notice that Jesus said "when," not "if," you fast. According to Jesus, fasting may be optional, but it is expected! The Lord also made sure to attach the standard requirements of praying and worship to fasting: sincerity. Thus, fasting is not to be mystical or manipulative. Instead, we should seek the Lord for increased strength, breakthrough, focus, and guidance when fasting. Also, we don't fast for atonement or forgiveness because Jesus has already provided that on the cross.
Knowing this, use the spiritual tool of fasting and humbly trust God for the results.
When it comes to my relationship with God, a spiritual tool that I like to use is fasting. Like my drill, fasting has proven to be highly productive. When I think of fasting, my thoughts shift to the Scriptures because it is mentioned or indicated over 8o times throughout the Bible. Although fasting is not commanded, it is discussed so much in the Bible and proves so powerful that it is a tool we should not neglect! Primarily, fasting involves the withholding of food.
Jesus taught on fasting several times in the Bible and recorded His own fasting. Therefore, besides other accounts, the Lord Himself provides much content and context concerning this effective spiritual tool. Here is one of those examples found in Matthew 6:16-19 where Jesus said, "And when you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. 17 But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, 18 that your fasting may not be seen by others but by your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you."
Notice that Jesus said "when," not "if," you fast. According to Jesus, fasting may be optional, but it is expected! The Lord also made sure to attach the standard requirements of praying and worship to fasting: sincerity. Thus, fasting is not to be mystical or manipulative. Instead, we should seek the Lord for increased strength, breakthrough, focus, and guidance when fasting. Also, we don't fast for atonement or forgiveness because Jesus has already provided that on the cross.
Knowing this, use the spiritual tool of fasting and humbly trust God for the results.
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