43 | Faithful Fasting: A Guide for Believers

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Are you curious about the spiritual practice of fasting? In this episode, we dive deep into the transformative power of this discipline, exploring its biblical foundations and the ways it can enhance your relationship with God. Fasting isn’t just about abstaining from food and it may not be about food at all; it’s an intentional spiritual journey that helps us focus on our connection to Christ.

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Transcript

Paula Behrens: 0:01

Welcome to another episode of Bible Study Basics for Women, where we delve into the many ways of living on purpose in Christ. Today, we're delving into the transformative spiritual practice of fasting. As a new believer, you may be curious about this discipline and how it can deepen your relationship with God. In this episode, we'll explore the biblical basis for fasting, its benefits and practical tips to help you incorporate the practice into your spiritual journey. Fasting is a practice that has been observed by God's people throughout history. In the Bible we find numerous examples of individuals and communities fasting to seek God's guidance, repentance and spiritual breakthroughs. Let's begin by looking at some key scripture passages that highlight the importance of fasting.

Paula Behrens: 0:54

In the book of Matthew, jesus speaks about fasting, saying 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, put oil on 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. That's Matthew 6, verse 16 through 18. This passage reminds us that fasting is not about outward appearances or seeking the approval of others. Instead, it is an intimate act of devotion between us and our Heavenly Father. As Christians, it's essential to approach fasting with a heart focused on God and a desire to draw closer to Him. Another significant passage about fasting can be found in Isaiah 58, verses 6 through 7, where God describes the kind of fast he desires. Isaiah speaks for God, saying, Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen, to loose the chains of injustice and untie the chords 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, when you see the naked, to clothe them and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood. This passage challenges us to view fasting not merely as a personal spiritual discipline, but as a call to action and social justice. As we fast, we should also consider how we can serve and love others, particularly those in need.

Paula Behrens: 2:45

Now that we've visited a few scripture passages about fasting, let's explore some practical tips and considerations for incorporating this practice into your spiritual life. First, start small. If you're new to fasting, begin with shorter fasts, such as skipping one meal or fasting for half a day. As you grow in your fasting journey, you can gradually increase the duration. Second, choose your fast wisely.

Paula Behrens: 3:13

Fasting doesn't necessarily mean abstaining from food entirely. You can fast from various things, such as certain types of food like sweets or caffeine, or processed foods, or social media and technology, or maybe entertainment TV shows, movies or video games, or even negative thoughts or gossip. Consider what God may be leading you to fast from and be open to his guidance. Third, set a clear purpose Before beginning your fast. Identify your specific spiritual goals. Are you seeking guidance, repentance or breakthrough in a particular area of your life? Write down your intentions and pray over them throughout your fast.

Paula Behrens: 3:57

Fourth, spend time in prayer and meditation. Fasting is most effective when coupled with increased time in prayer and reflection on God's word. Use your fasting period to draw near to God and listen for His voice. Fifth, stay hydrated. If you're fasting from food, be sure to drink plenty of water to support your body during this time. Sixth, listen to your body. If you experience any adverse effects during your fast, such as dizziness or severe headaches, consider modifying your fast or ending it early. God desires our well-being and fasting should never be detrimental to our health. Finally, seventh, keep a fasting journal. Document your experiences, prayers and insights during your fast. This journal can serve as a valuable resource for future fasts and as a reminder of God's faithfulness.

Paula Behrens: 4:53

As you embark on your fasting journey, remember that it is a personal and intimate act of worship. There's no one-size-fits-all approach to fasting, so be open to the Holy Spirit's leading and guidance. For those of you who are new to the faith, fasting can be a powerful way to deepen your relationship with God and grow in spiritual maturity. It's a discipline that requires intentionality, but the rewards are immeasurable. As you consider incorporating fasting into your spiritual life, I want to invite you to join our Faith Building Club membership. This membership is designed specifically for Christian women who are new to the faith and desire to grow in their walk with the Lord. The club is loaded with eight months of printable resources, including prayer journals, devotional journals, weekly Bible study lessons, a one-year Bible reading plan and so much more. These resources will help you cultivate a vibrant and thriving relationship with God as you navigate your faith journey. To learn more about the Faith Building Club and how it can support you in your spiritual growth, look for the link in the show notes. I believe that this community and these resources will be a blessing to you as you seek to live on purpose in Christ.

Paula Behrens: 6:12

Now, before we close, I want to leave you with a few more scripture passages to meditate on as you consider the discipline of fasting. Joel, chapter 2, verses 12 through 13, says Yet even now says the Lord return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and with mourning. Rinse your heart and not your clothing. Return to the Lord, your God, for he is generous and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love and relents from punishing. Then Luke writes in Acts, chapter 13, verses 2 through 3, saying 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 prayer, they placed their hands on them and sent them off. And in Acts, chapter 14, verse 23 we hear, 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. T hese passages remind us that fasting is a profound spiritual practice that enables us to align our hearts more completely with God's purposes.

Paula Behrens: 7:27

When done with sincerity and prayer, fasting creates a space in our lives for transformation and divine guidance. It serves as a reminder of our dependence on God's grace and compassion, encouraging us to humble ourselves and seek a deeper relationship with Him. As you go through this journey of reflection and spiritual growth, consider integrating supportive practices like using a biblical oil for anointing. Essential oils such as frankincense or cedarwood can create a tranquil atmosphere, aiding you in focusing on the inner work and divine connection you're seeking. I personally like to put one drop in the palms of my hands and breathe in deeply, or you can put one drop on the crown of your head or on the back of your neck.

Paula Behrens: 8:14

As we conclude this episode on fasting, I want to encourage you to take some time to pray and ask God if he is leading you to incorporate this practice into your spiritual life. Remember, fasting is not about earning God's favor or manipulating him to answer our prayers. Instead, it is a way to draw near to him, align our hearts with his and experience his transforming power in our lives. Let's close in prayer.

Paula Behrens: 8:45

Dear Heavenly Father, we thank you for the opportunity to draw near to you in this very special way. As followers of Christ, we ask for your guidance and wisdom as we seek to incorporate fasting into our spiritual practices. Help us to approach this discipline with humility, seeking your will above our own. May our fasting be a sweet aroma to you, a way to deepen our relationship with you and grow in our faith. We pray for strength and discipline to fast according to your leading, and we ask for your grace and mercy as we navigate this journey. Thank you for your love and faithfulness and for the privilege of sitting in your awesome presence. In Jesus' precious and holy name, we pray, and all of God's people say Amen.

Paula Behrens: 9:38

Thank you for joining us for today's show. If you have any questions about the biblical foundation of fasting, prayer or anointing with oil, or would like to share your own experiences, I invite you to use the fan note texting feature to send me a message. Find the link in the show notes and get your question or comments to us and I'll be sure to respond. May your walk with the Lord be enriched with insight, peace and a deepening trust in God's wisdom. Okay, be blessed, and I'm looking forward to seeing you in the next episode of Bible Study Basics for Women. Until then, may your faith and love for the Lord continue to grow and flourish.