Should Christians Fast? Is It Biblical?

[Aero_Hudson]

I have a Dave Slayer topic. Do you fast? If so, why? Should Christians fast? All thoughts welcome.

 

[Nick]

I think it depends on the reasons. I'm not sure what is Biblical, but I don't think it matters either way. But again, it could depend on the reasons for doing so or for not doing so.

 

[kimberlyb0112]

This is something I have been reading and praying about recently.. fasting

I am a fairly new Christian, and I didn't know anything about it..
There are several verses that support fasting..

One of them being Matthew 6:16-18 : "When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting. I tell you the truth, 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 men 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.

Notice it says when you fast..
I believe Christians should fast to grow closer to the Lord,
or if they have an issue going on that they are seeking guidance
about.. there are a number of reasons.

I believe it's something you should pray about though,
and the Lord will give you guidance about it..

 

[Aero_Hudson]

This is something I have been reading and praying about recently.. fasting

I am a fairly new Christian, and I didn't know anything about it..
There are several verses that support fasting..

One of them being Matthew 6:16-18 : "When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting. I tell you the truth, 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 men 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.

Notice it says when you fast..
I believe Christians should fast to grow closer to the Lord,
or if they have an issue going on that they are seeking guidance
about.. there are a number of reasons.

I believe it's something you should pray about though,
and the Lord will give you guidance about it..

Thanks kimberly. I am a relatively new Christian myself, just accepted Christ in April of this year. I have been reading many books one of which is regarding the Christian Discplines, "Celebrations of Discipline" by Richard J. Foster. He is a proponent of fasting and recommends it to those wanting to come closer to God. It sparked my interest.

I am open to trying it but had a few thoughts / concerns that I will be very blunt about...

- Is this considered fanatical at all? Just being honest when I think of the practice of fasting
- Have others experienced it and if so what did it do for you if anything?
- Do folks experience any physical issues with trying it?
- What is the longest period of time anyone here has fasted?
- Recommend or don't recommend based on experiences?

Those are the thoughts that came to my mind. I am seriously considering trying this and have prayed about it quite a bit. I plan on really focusing on the experience through prayer, meditation and some of the other Christian Disciplines that Foster refers to.

All thoughts welcome. Thanks again kimberly!

 

[Free]

It's been a while since I read Celebration of Discipline but it was a very good book.

- Is this considered fanatical at all? Just being honest when I think of the practice of fasting
- Is this considered fanatical at all? Just being honest when I think of the practice of fasting
- Have others experienced it and if so what did it do for you if anything?
- Do folks experience any physical issues with trying it?
- What is the longest period of time anyone here has fasted?
- Recommend or don't recommend based on experiences?

Assuming you mean fasting as a no food, water only fast, which is what is typically meant and thought of:

1. No, it is not fanatical although some will certainly think it is.
2. I've done it but not on a regular basis and not for some time; certainly not as a discipline like it should be done. I found that my head was more clear and I became more acutely aware of things--feelings, desires, etc.
3. Some do. The key is to start out slow and work up, such as one would do in training for a marathon--you'll never run 10k if you can't run 1. Just see how your body reacts to missing a couple of meals, although it is the first day or two which are the hardest.
4. I think I've done 3 days or so. It is quite difficult which is why it is called a discipline and why so many people don't do it or don't do it often.
5. I certainly recommend it.

You can also do many other fasts--from TV, Internet, etc.