
In our fast-paced, always-connected world, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters. We often find ourselves caught up in the daily grind, barely taking a moment to breathe, let alone nurture our spiritual lives. But what if there was a way to intentionally create space for God, to deepen our faith, and to transform our perspective? Enter the ancient practice of fasting – a spiritual discipline that’s as relevant today as it was thousands of years ago.
Fasting, in its simplest form, is abstaining from something – usually food, but not always – for spiritual purposes. It’s a practice that goes beyond mere self-denial; it’s about making room for God to work in our lives in profound ways. But before we dive deeper into the transformative power of fasting, let’s address a common misconception.
Many people associate fasting with religious showmanship – a way to prove one’s devotion or earn spiritual brownie points. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, Jesus himself warned against this very attitude in Matthew 6:16-18:
“And when you fast, don’t make it obvious, as the hypocrites do, for they try to look miserable and disheveled so people will admire them for their fasting. I tell you the truth, that is the only reward they will ever get. But when you fast, comb your hair and wash your face. Then no one will notice that you are fasting, except your Father, who knows what you do in private. And your Father, who sees everything, will reward you.”
These words remind us that fasting isn’t about impressing others or earning God’s favor. It’s a deeply personal practice, one that should be approached with humility and sincerity. The goal isn’t to look pious or gain admiration from others, but to create an intimate space for communion with God.
So, why fast? What makes this practice so powerful?
Fasting has a unique way of revealing what truly controls us. When we voluntarily give up something we regularly depend on – be it food, social media, or a particular habit – we quickly discover what we lean on for comfort, escape, or satisfaction. This revelation can be uncomfortable, but it’s also incredibly enlightening. It invites us to loosen our grip on these temporal comforts and depend more fully on God.
Moreover, fasting creates opportunities for prayer and reflection. The time we would normally spend eating, scrolling, or indulging in whatever we’ve chosen to fast from can be devoted to seeking God, reading Scripture, or simply sitting in quiet meditation. In a world filled with constant noise and distraction, this intentional quiet can help us hear God’s voice more clearly.
Think of God’s grace like a flowing stream – always present, always moving. We can hear its soothing babble, smell its freshness, and even fish from its banks for nourishment. But it’s only when we step into the water that we can be truly cleansed and refreshed by it. Fasting is our way of wading into that stream of grace, allowing ourselves to be renewed and transformed by God’s presence.
When we fast, we’re not earning God’s favor or manipulating Him to do what we want. Instead, we’re creating space for God to reshape us, refine us, and draw us closer. We’re allowing ourselves to experience His grace in ways that don’t happen in the normal patterns of our lives.
In these moments of surrender, something beautiful happens. We begin to find strength in our weakness, peace in our discomfort, and hope in the act of letting go. We lean into the profound truth that God is enough – more than enough – to satisfy our deepest longings and needs.
Now, if you’re feeling inspired to incorporate fasting into your spiritual life, it’s important to start small. Don’t jump into the deep end without learning how to swim first. Begin with fasting from one meal, using that time for prayer, reading a devotional, or meditating on Scripture. As you grow more comfortable with the practice, you might try a meal-to-meal fast, abstaining from food from one lunch to the next.
Remember, fasting doesn’t always have to be food-related. The key is to stop doing something you would normally do and dedicate that time to God and spiritual growth. Maybe for you, that means fasting from social media, television, or a particular habit. The specifics are less important than the heart behind the practice.
As you consider fasting, approach it with a heart of humility and a desire to draw closer to God. Be open to what He might reveal to you during this time. The goal isn’t to see how much you can give up or for how long. The goal is to create space in your life for God to work.
Fasting, when done with the right intentions, becomes a powerful tool for spiritual growth. It’s a way to align your heart with God’s heart and a means of stepping into the transformative streams of His grace. It reminds us that our deepest hunger isn’t for food, or likes on social media, or any other temporal pleasure – it’s for God Himself.
So, this week, ask yourself: What is one thing I can fast from to create space for God? Then, take that bold step forward. Trust that God will meet you there in powerful ways. As you do, you may find that the things you thought were so essential begin to fade in importance, replaced by a deeper, richer connection with the One who truly satisfies.
Remember, fasting isn’t about earning brownie points with God or impressing others with your spirituality. It’s about creating intentional space in your life for God to work, transform, and renew. It’s about stepping into the stream of His grace and allowing it to wash over you, cleanse you, and refresh you.
In a world that constantly demands more of our time, attention, and energy, fasting offers us a counter-cultural way to say “no” to the noise and “yes” to God’s presence. It’s an invitation to find true nourishment, not in the things we consume, but in the One who created us.
So, are you ready to wade into the streams of God’s grace? The water’s fine, and God is waiting with open arms.