“And when you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, that your fasting may not be seen by others but by your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.
FEASTING AND FASTING
Fasting can take many forms, but is primarily about putting ourselves second and God’s kingdom first. Feasting is about celebrating God’s provision and building up community; feasts should do both.
BIBLICAL ASPECTS OF FASTING
Fasting is a spiritual discipline that is taught in the Bible. Jesus expected His followers to fast, and He said that God rewards fasting. Fasting, according to the Bible, means to voluntarily reduce or eliminate your intake of food for a specific time and purpose. To strengthen prayer, To seek God's guidance and To express grief.
FASTING - A HUNGER FOR GOD'S WORD
Fasting is hungering for God. When you fast food, you help create a deeper hunger for God activating your spiritual hunger hormone. It may not feel enjoyable physically when we fast, but you are fulfilling your spiritual hunger.
WHEN YOU FAST
''And when you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, that your fasting may not be seen by others but by your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.'' Matthew 6:16-18 (ESV)
BIBLICAL ASPECTS OF FASTING
16 “Go, gather all the Jews to be found in Susa, and hold a fast on my behalf, and do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my young women will also fast as you do. Then I will go to the king, though it is against the law, and if I perish, I perish.”(ESV)
Esther 4:16