Fasting is the discipline of humbly and prayerfully seeking
God by abstaining from all or certain foods for a period of time. Throughout
the Bible, we see God’s people pray and fast, Jesus being the greatest example
(Matt.3:17-4:2). And as Jesus’ disciples, He instructs us to follow in His
footsteps (Matt.6:17-18; 9:15). The Scriptures point to fasting for forgiveness
of sin, rescue from enemies, for wisdom and direction, or just to draw nearer
to God in worship. Fasting expresses our humility and faith in our almighty
God, seeking Him and declaring that with God, all things are possible. Fasting
also reveals the things that control us. Our heart is tested and exposed
through fasting, and we find out what we truly love, trust and hope in most
(Deut.8:2-3).
How Do I Fast?
During the Week of Prayer, we encourage you to follow our
Saviour’s example and join the generations of God’s people who sought the Lord
through fasting.
1. Prepare your Heart - review Isaiah 55:6-7 and 1 Peter
5:6-7. Ask the Lord what kind and length of fast He would have you do. Does He
want you to go completely without food, consuming only water? Or water and
juices? Is He asking you to fast one meal a day, one day a week, or several
days at a time?
2. Set an Objective - use Harvest’s Prayer Booklet to guide
you in praying for the church. Ask God to show you areas in your own heart that
need to change.
3. Make a Plan - commit to a specific time when you will
fast and pray. Proactively think of a location where you will have the most
freedom to pray (e.g. walk outside, office, home, etc.)
4. Know your Body - limit your physical activity as much as
your schedule will permit. During your fast you may experience side effects
such as headaches, stomach aches, nausea, or a foul taste in your mouth. This
is all normal; the body is taking advantage of the fast to clean itself (NOTE:
if you are pregnant or have a medical condition, please consult your physician
to work out a suitable plan before fasting).