Today we will talk about verses in the bible about fasting. Fasting is an essential part of many Christians’ spiritual lives. It’s a time when we set aside food or other distractions to draw closer to God. Through fasting, we can seek God’s guidance, show our devotion, and grow in faith. It’s not just about abstaining from something physically but also focusing on prayer and communing with God. Whether we fast for healing, revelation, spiritual clarity, or simply to express our love for God, it is an opportunity for growth and transformation. So, let’s dive into what the Bible says about fasting and see how we can deepen our faith through this special practice!
Bible Verses About Fasting
Fasting and Prayer
When we think about fasting, it often goes hand-in-hand with prayer. Fasting is not simply skipping meals; it’s about dedicating that time to communicate with God. When we combine prayer with fasting, we create a powerful spiritual weapon. This practice allows us to refocus our hearts and seek God’s will. It’s our way of showing God that we are serious about wanting to know Him more deeply. In Scripture, many faithful individuals, from the prophets to Jesus Himself, utilized fasting as a means of drawing closer to God and seeking guidance in critical moments. As we explore these verses on fasting and prayer, let’s open our hearts to the possibility of deeper connection and understanding of God’s desires for us.
Matthew 6:16
“When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full.” – Matthew 6:16
Luke 5:16
“But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” – Luke 5:16
Acts 13:2
“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.'” – Acts 13:2
Matthew 17:21
“But this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting.” – Matthew 17:21
Mark 9:29
“He replied, ‘This kind can come out only by prayer and fasting.'” – Mark 9:29
The Purpose of Fasting
Fasting serves numerous purposes in our spiritual journeys. It can be an act of repentance, a way to seek God’s help in times of need, or even a method for us to express our dependence on Him. The purpose of fasting is often tied to humility and reflection, allowing us to recalibrate our relationship with God. During these times, we create space for God to speak into our lives, to heal, to move mountains, and to transform our perspectives. When we understand the purpose behind fasting, we can approach it with open hearts and expectant spirits, ready for the blessings God has in store as we draw closer to Him.
Isaiah 58:6
“Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke?” – Isaiah 58:6
Joel 2:12
“Even now,” declares the Lord, “return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning.” – Joel 2:12
Matthew 4:2
“After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry.” – Matthew 4:2
Acts 14:23
“Paul and Barnabas appointed elders for them in each church and, with prayer and fasting, committed them to the Lord in whom they had put their trust.” – Acts 14:23
Luke 2:37
“And then was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, serving God with fastings and prayers night and day.” – Luke 2:37
Fasting and Humility
One of the most beautiful aspects of fasting is its potential to promote humility. When we fast, we intentionally set aside our physical needs to focus on spiritual ones. This practice helps us understand our dependence on God. It reminds us that while we may be strong on our own, we are weak without His power. It’s often in our humility that we’ve grown closer to God. The Bible emphasizes a humble heart, especially when we come before God during times of fasting. This teaches us to approach God with sincerity, recognizing our need for His guidance and grace in our lives.
Psalms 35:13
“Yet when they were ill, I put on sackcloth and humbled myself with fasting.” – Psalms 35:13
Psalms 69:10
“When I wept and humbled my soul with fasting, that became my reproach.” – Psalms 69:10
Ezra 8:21
“Then I proclaimed a fast there, at the river of Ahava, that we might humble ourselves before our God…” – Ezra 8:21
2 Chronicles 7:14
“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven…” – 2 Chronicles 7:14
James 4:10
“Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.” – James 4:10
Spiritual Growth Through Fasting
Fasting often opens the door to spiritual growth. Just as a seed must be buried and nourished through darkness before it blossoms into a beautiful flower, our spiritual lives are often deepened when we go through the spiritual discipline of fasting. It’s a time to step aside from worldly distractions and to give our full attention and devotion to God. This can lead to revelations and insight that might have been missed otherwise. Through fasting, we can really examine our hearts and grow into the people God intended us to be. This can bring about a profound transformation, making us more like Christ each day.
John 6:27
“Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you.” – John 6:27
1 Peter 2:2
“Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation.” – 1 Peter 2:2
Philippians 3:14
“I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 3:14
2 Timothy 2:21
“Those who cleanse themselves from the later will be instruments for special purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work.” – 2 Timothy 2:21
James 1:4
“Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” – James 1:4
Fasting and Faith
Fasting strengthens our faith in a remarkable way. It’s in these moments of fasting that we learn to depend on God. When we deny our bodies something they crave, we realize how powerful faith can be in guiding us through discomfort and hardship. This process reinforces our spiritual muscles; our faith grows stronger as we learn to trust in God’s provision rather than our own understanding or ability. Fasting acts as a reminder of God’s promises and encourages us to rely on Him fully. It enhances our intimacy with God as we commit our hearts and thoughts to Him during this time of fasting.
Matthew 21:21
“Jesus replied, ‘Truly I tell you, if you have faith and do not doubt, not only can you do what was done to the fig tree, but also you can say to this mountain, “Go, throw yourself into the sea,” and it will be done.'” – Matthew 21:21
Mark 11:24
“Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” – Mark 11:24
Romans 10:17
“Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.” – Romans 10:17
Hebrews 11:1
“Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” – Hebrews 11:1
2 Corinthians 5:7
“For we live by faith, not by sight.” – 2 Corinthians 5:7
Fasting as a Response to Need
There are times in our lives where we encounter needs that feel overwhelming or impossible. Fasting can be our heartfelt response to these needs. We may seek God for healing, clarity, or breakthrough in various situations. During these times, fasting allows us to refocus our attention on God, pouring our hearts out to Him in sincere prayer and supplication. It’s our way of demonstrating that we are placing our trust in Him, acknowledging that He alone is capable of handling these challenges. The Bible illustrates numerous instances where God’s people fasted during significant moments, leading to powerful responses from God.
Esther 4:16
“Go, gather together all the Jews who are in Susa, and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my attendants will fast as you do. When this is done, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law.” – Esther 4:16
Acts 27:33
“Just before dawn Paul urged them all to eat. ‘For the last fourteen days,’ he said, ‘you have been in constant suspense and have gone without food. You haven’t eaten anything.'” – Acts 27:33
2 Chronicles 20:3
“Alarmed, Jehoshaphat resolved to inquire of the Lord, and he proclaimed a fast for all Judah.” – 2 Chronicles 20:3
Jonah 3:5
“The Ninevites believed God; a fast was proclaimed, and all of them, from the greatest to the least, put on sackcloth.” – Jonah 3:5
Matthew 9:15
“Jesus answered, ‘How can the guests of the bridegroom mourn while he is with them? The time will come when the bridegroom will be taken from them; then they will fast.'” – Matthew 9:15
Fasting and Self-Control
Fasting requires a significant amount of self-control. In a world where we often indulge our cravings and desires, choosing to fast can serve as a powerful declaration that we are in control of our bodies rather than the other way around. This discipline not only strengthens our resolve in the area of food but can extend to other areas of our lives as well. By exercising self-control in fasting, we develop the ability to resist temptations and live with greater purpose. Maintaining this discipline can help us grow in character, learning to control our urges and, in turn, fostering a closer relationship with God.
Galatians 5:22-23
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” – Galatians 5:22-23
1 Corinthians 9:27
“No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.” – 1 Corinthians 9:27
Proverbs 25:28
“Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control.” – Proverbs 25:28
Philippians 4:13
“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” – Philippians 4:13
Romans 12:2
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” – Romans 12:2
The Joy of Fasting
While fasting can sometimes feel challenging or daunting, there is an undeniable joy that comes when we grow closer to God. Fasting allows us to experience spiritual breakthroughs and rewards that we may not grasp in our everyday routines. The joy of fasting lies not just in the absence of food but in the presence of God filling that space. As we shift our focus from physical needs to spiritual ones, we uncover a deep satisfaction that resonates in our souls—a satisfaction that comes only from God’s presence. This joy is a reminder that spiritual fulfillment far outweighs any earthly desires we may have to set aside.
Psalms 126:5
“Those who sow with tears will reap with songs of joy.” – Psalms 126:5
Isaiah 58:14
“Then you will find your joy in the Lord, and I will cause you to ride in triumph on the heights of the land.” – Isaiah 58:14
Philippians 4:4
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” – Philippians 4:4
Nehemiah 8:10
“Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” – Nehemiah 8:10
Romans 15:13
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” – Romans 15:13
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on these verses about fasting, we see how significant this practice is in the life of a Christian. Fasting is not merely about abstaining from food but about deepening our relationship with God. It is a journey of humility, faith, and growth, giving us the tools we need to draw closer to God in times of need. When we approach fasting with the right heart, we can experience transformation that leads to a life filled with joy and purpose. Together, let’s embrace this spiritual discipline, allowing it to draw us nearer to the heart of God.
May we find strength in fasting, knowing that it leads to spiritual nourishment that far surpasses physical needs. Let us be encouraged to lean on God in these times and to find joy in the journey He has for us through fasting.
Each step we take in fasting brings us closer to understanding God’s calls and His beautiful plans for our lives. Let’s embark on this journey together, with expectant hearts, knowing we are never alone in our pursuit of spiritual depth through fasting.
Further Reading
30 Bible Verses About Getting Closer To God (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Removing People From Your Life (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)
30 Bible Verses About Being Lukewarm (With Explanation)
4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4