Exploring the Biblical Connection Between Fasting and Prayer

In today’s world full of distractions, finding moments of stillness and connection with God can be a challenge. Yet, for centuries, people of faith have turned to spiritual disciplines like fasting and prayer to deepen their relationship with the Lord, seek guidance, and express devotion through this spiritual act of worship. In this blog, we’ll discuss what the Bible teaches about fasting and prayer, and how these practices can impact our lives today.

Biblical Foundations

The Bible offers numerous examples of fasting and prayer, highlighting their significance in the lives of believers. In the Old Testament, we see figures like Moses, Elijah, and David engaging in fasting and prayer during times of crisis, repentance, and seeking God’s guidance. The prophet Daniel, for instance, fasted and prayed for insight and understanding (Daniel 9:3). In Exodus 34:28, Moses fasted for 40 days and nights while he was on Mount Sinai receiving the Ten Commandments from God.

You might also recall how Esther called a fast among the Jewish people in a response to the imminent threat they faced (Esther 4:16). It is wise and prudent for us as believers to engage in prayer and fasting, especially in times of great trial and when making important decisions. Throughout the Psalms, King David speaks of his experiences with fasting as a means of seeking God’s forgiveness, guidance, and deliverance. In Psalm 35:13, David writes, “I afflicted my soul with fasting; and my prayer kept returning to my bosom.” As you can see, while fasting may be difficult, the reward is insurmountable.

In the New Testament, Jesus himself set an example of fasting and prayer, spending 40 days and nights in the wilderness before beginning his ministry (Matthew 4:1-2). It’s imperative that we realize how important Jesus took this challenge in order to overcome the challenges that were lost in the first Adam: They fell short and gave into temptation in the garden, but here Jesus defeated the enemy in the desert. He overcame the devil through prayer, fasting, and the Word of God.

Moreover, Jesus taught his disciples to do the same. For example, in Matthew 17:21, Jesus replied, “Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.’

This verse follows a situation where Jesus and his disciples were unable to cast out a demon from a boy. In some versions of the Bible, this verse includes an additional statement by Jesus: “But this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting.” This suggests that certain spiritual challenges or obstacles may require fasting as a means of spiritual preparation and empowerment.

God also wants his disciples to fast when making important decisions. For instance, Acts 13:2-4 states: “While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.’ So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off.”

This verse demonstrates how fasting can be part of seeking God’s guidance and commissioning for ministry. The early church leaders fasted and prayed before sending Barnabas and Saul (later known as Paul) on their missionary journey.

When we fast with sincerity and humility, we are letting God know that He has our full attention and is the only sustenance we need to be spiritually thrive. This attitude gives us the power and authority to battle in the spiritual world because we are fully tuned into the will of God.

Finally, God warns us that fasting is not meant to make ourselves look pious and better than others. In fact, he tells us to avoid displays of piety or telling people that you are “fasting”. Instead, wash your face in the morning to appear full of energy when you are going through it. Why? Because God is omniscient and knows you are fasting to please him and not others (Matt. 6:16-18).

I have been in situations where people will tell me they are fasting and how hard it is. They also want it to be publicly known so that people will be impressed, but God doesn’t want us to act this way.

The Purpose of Fasting and Prayer

Fasting and prayer serve multiple purposes in the life of a believer. They can be expressions of repentance, humility, and devotion to God. They can also be a means of seeking God’s guidance, discernment, and empowerment for ministry.

During my college years, I embarked on a 30-day fasting and prayer challenge with my roommate. While my initial intention was to draw closer to God and deepen my spiritual life, I found the experience more challenging than anticipated. I only managed to fast for about 5 days before feeling overwhelmed by the physical and mental demands.

It was a great wake up call for me though because I didn’t realize how much my body craved food and how it would replace God for my comfort. Of course, we need to eat and drink for survival, but many of us like to indulge in food because it gives us a false comfort. Scripture says that many people’s gods is their bellies (Philippians 3:19).

Are you allowing yourself to fall prey to gluttony? If so, be careful because this idol can consume you. It can also lead to bad health and eating habits. As I write this paragraph, I am thinking about all the butter I put on my bread in the morning. It’s way more than the recommended amount and I know this because my cholesterol is high. I am preaching to myself here and need to repent.