Christian Fasting

Fasting is derived from the Greek word “nesteia” – a compound of ne (a negative prefix) and esthio which means “to eat.” So the basic root meaning of the word simply means “not to eat.”

Christian Fasting leads to Spiritual Growth

Christian fasting on the other hand is just “not eating.” It requires one to abstain from food, drink, sleep or sex to focus on a period of spiritual growth. The main purpose being to humbly deny something of the flesh to glorify god, enhance the spirit, and go deeper in prayer.

Prayer an Integral Part of Christian Fasting

A very important aspect of Christian fasting is prayer. Prayer can be done without fasting. But fasting cannot be done without prayer. The main purpose of fasting is to take our eyes off the worldly things that give us pleasure and instead focus on god. Fasting is a way to demonstrate to God and to ourselves that we are serious about our relationship with god. Fasting enables a troubled heart to connect with the lord.

Christian Fasting Teaches You to Be Humble

Denying yourself food to focus on god and his program shows humility. It shows how important god’s will is in your life. It is a sign of humility, as you depend and wait on the Lord in submission to his will. When a person is really concerned about the things of god, he will humble himself. There will be times when he will abstain from the enjoyment of food to continue concentration and focus on that which is important to god.

Christian fasting encourages humility, loosens the chains of injustice, unties the chords of the yoke, frees the oppressed, feeds the hungry, provides for the poor and clothes the naked. This concept of fasting isn’t a one day thing – it’s a lifestyle of servant living for god and others. It encourages in you love for your God and your neighbor. It fills you with the love of god which is manifested in your relationship with others.