What Did Jesus Say About Fasting
Today we will talk about what did Jesus say about fasting. Many Christians do not know what this means. Fasting is a spiritual practice that involves abstaining from food or certain types of food for a set period. In Jesus’ time, fasting had quite an important place in spiritual life. When we turn to Scripture, we find significant teachings from Jesus regarding fasting, and it’s essential for us to explore these teachings for a better understanding of our faith. Be on the mode of meditation as we read through God’s word.
The Nature of Fasting
Fasting is more than just refraining from food; it’s a practice intended to help us draw closer to God. The Hebrew word for fasting, “tsūm,” means to “cover the mouth,” indicating a physical act of abstention for spiritual purposes. In Greek, the word “nēsteia” carries a similar notion; it refers to the act of going without food. Historically, fasting was observed by Jews during times of mourning, repentance, or a quest for divine assistance. The New Testament brought new dimensions to fasting, especially through the teachings of Jesus.
Fasting symbolizes a desire for spiritual connection and an acknowledgment of our dependence on God. It creates space for prayer, reflection, and personal growth. Jesus emphasized the heart behind fasting, encouraging authenticity and sincerity. This approach helps us focus on God rather than merely following a ritual.
In Matthew 6:16-18, Jesus states, “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. But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” Here, Jesus teaches that fasting should be a private act of devotion, not for display but for genuine connection with God.
Fasting acts as a spiritual discipline that enhances our relationship with God. The act of fasting exemplifies our desire to seek God above earthly needs. In Matthew 4:1-2, we see Jesus fasting for 40 days and nights in the wilderness, preceding His temptation by Satan. This period wasn’t merely about refraining from food; it was about spiritual preparation and reliance on God. Jesus sets the example that through fasting, we can strengthen our commitment to God and our understanding of His word.
In Mark 9:29, Jesus mentions fasting as a necessary practice for certain types of spiritual challenges. He says, “This kind can come out only by prayer and fasting.” This underscores how fasting can be a tool for spiritual warfare, increasing our reliance on God when facing battles that seem overwhelming. It’s a reminder that some struggles require a deeper commitment to prayer and fasting, allowing us to surrender our own strength for God’s power.
Fasting also serves as a time for introspection, where we can evaluate our lives according to God’s will. The practice encourages us to ask deeper questions about our faith and our journey. In Psalm 69:10, the psalmist expresses that when he fasts, his soul is humbled before God. Fasting can be an avenue for humility, helping us shed distractions and focus solely on our spiritual growth.
Jesus illustrated that fasting should have a purpose rather than being a mere routine act. It’s essential to approach fasting with intentionality, using this time to connect with God, seek His will, and confess our sins. In Isaiah 58:6-7, God expresses the true intent of fasting, stating, “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? Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter?” This shows that fasting can have a social dimension, urging us to act out our faith through acts of kindness and compassion.
When we incorporate a purpose into our fasting, it transforms it from simply giving up food to a profound opportunity for spiritual renewal. For instance, when combining fasting with prayer, we open ourselves to deeper insight and understanding of God’s word. In Acts 13:2-3, we read about the early church fasting and praying before making significant decisions. This demonstrates how fasting can clarify our minds, evoke God’s guidance, and prepare us to embark on new missions within our faith journey.
Jesus did not see fasting as a burdensome obligation but instead as a means to spiritually enrich our lives. In Luke 5:34-35, He states, “Can you make the friends of the bridegroom fast while he is with them? But the time will come when the bridegroom will be taken from them; in those days they will fast.” Here, Jesus highlights that fasting reflects a longing for more than just physical provisions; it expresses our yearning for a deeper relationship with Him. When we understand this longing, we tap into the true essence of fasting.
Fasting has been closely associated with miracles throughout Scripture. Many extraordinary events took place when individuals engaged in fasting and prayer. For example, in 2 Chronicles 20, King Jehoshaphat fasted as he sought God’s help against an invading army. During this time, God assured him of victory. As a result, Israel witnessed a miraculous intervention. This encourages us to believe in the power of prayer and fasting; through our faith, God can intervene in ways we cannot imagine.
Moreover, in Esther 4:16, Queen Esther asked her people to fast and pray for her as she prepared to approach the king and plead for her people’s lives. This act of unified fasting fostered a sense of urgency and dependence on God’s wisdom and intervention. Esther experienced a miraculous turn of events that led to the saving of her people—showing that fasting can amplify our prayers and align them with God’s purpose, leading to miraculous outcomes.
In Matthew 17:21, Jesus ties fasting to the effectiveness of His followers in casting out demons, emphasizing the idea that fasting heightens spiritual power. It’s crucial to seek not only personal breakthrough but also to intercede for others through the same lens of faith and reliance on God. Our prayers combined with fasting can unlock miracles not just in our lives, but also in the lives of those who desperately need God’s touch.
Jesus’ approach to fasting extends to its communal aspect. In Matthew 6:16-18, He encourages us to maintain a spirit of joy and not appear outwardly ravaged while fasting, as this is not about being seen by others. However, He acknowledges the power of communal fasting when it is combined with sincere intentions. Acts 14:23 illustrates that the early church fasted and prayed together when appointing church leaders. This prayers and fasting unified the community in seeking God’s will and discernment together.
Fasting fits beautifully into communal worship and can foster a collective yearning for God’s presence. When we fast together, we unite in purpose and elevate our communal plea for God’s intervention. In Joel 1:14, the Lord prompted the people to gather for a fast as a community to seek repentance and renewal. It strengthens bonds within the faith community and reminds us of the shared struggle and dependence on God.
Communal fasting helps us bear one another’s burdens and encourages accountability within the fellowship. When we come together in prayer and fasting, we can uplift one another, share insights, and grow spiritually as a unit.
Fasting is an essential act that holds significant meaning in our relationship with God. It’s not just a ritualistic practice but an essential avenue for spiritual growth, reflection, and deeper engagement with God’s presence in our lives. Through Jesus’ teachings, we learn the importance of approach, intention, and the purpose behind fasting. We embrace fasting as not merely abstaining from food, but as a commitment to focusing on God, intensifying our prayer life, and seeking His guidance.
With the right heart and purpose, fasting can lead to miraculous outcomes and a transformed spirit. It can significantly enhance our lives as individuals and as a community. As we reflect on Jesus’ teachings about fasting, let us approach it with sincerity, understanding the deeper dimensions of our spiritual journey intertwined with prayer and the Word of God.
Final Thoughts
After looking into what Jesus has said about fasting, it’s clear not just a mere tradition but a beautiful way to grow closer to God. We’ve learned that fasting is about fasting with purpose, making it less about the act itself and more about our relationship with God.
Fasting has roots that go back to the Old Testament but blossoms in the New Testament through Jesus’ teachings, showing us that it’s not just for appearances. Whether alone or in community, it teaches us humility and reliance on God’s strength.
Lastly, let us always keep in mind the motive behind our fasting. It might be for personal spiritual growth or for intercession for others. Whatever the reason, I hope we can embrace fasting as a meaningful aspect of our journey of faith, drawing us closer to God’s heart.
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