How to Fast Spiritually

Prayer is one of the most important aspects of spiritual fasting.

Spiritual fasting is an important aspect of Christian life. Many Christians will fast sometime during their life, whether it be during the Lenten season before Easter or else at a random time during the year. It is important to remember that based on your age, health and spiritual beliefs, different types of fasting may be better and more fulfilling than other types of spiritual fasting. Each type of fasting, however, provides a special and unique relationship with God.

Instructions

1. Decide how long you plan to fast. If you are fasting for Lent, you should plan to fast for the full 40 days of the season. However, if you are not fasting during Lent you can choose any time-frame that works best for you. If you are new to fasting, consider only fasting for one week so that you can get used to it.

2. Determine what spiritual fasting means to you. Many people think of spiritual fasting as the tradition of giving up food for a certain period of time. However, you can also abstain from entertainment, physical pleasure or a personal bad habit. Determine what type of fasting you want to do in order to help you grow spiritually. Also consider the length of time you will be fasting when choosing what to give up.

3. Pray daily. Prayer is an important aspect of fasting. When you are feeling tempted to give in and indulge yourself in what you are avoiding, say a prayer asking God to give you the strength to carry on.

4. Spend more time with God. For example, if you are fasting from modern entertainment, consider spending the time you would have spent watching your favorite television show reading the Bible or attending a church service.

References

• Olivet University: Spiritual Formation
• Christian Broadcasting Network; The Power of Prayer and Fasting; Marilyn Hickey
• Campus Crusade for Christ International; 7 Basic Steps to Successful Fasting and Prayer; Bill Bright