The Spiritual & Physical Benefits of Fasting
As the new year approaches, I think about fasting. I don’t like it, but I know I need it. Our society offers us too much of everything – food, entertainment, activities of all kinds, and noise. The consequence? Our mental and physical health suffers.
I plan to fast during the first three weeks January – please consider joining me.
Why fast?
Fasting re-sets our system and restores our equilibrium. We see Jesus fasting as a way of drawing near to the Father and sharpening his spiritual focus. And throughout the Bible we see examples of God’s people fasting.
Job 23:12 says: “I have treasured the words of His mouth more than my necessary food.” Fasting turbo-charges your spirit, connecting you to God and satisfying your spiritual hunger even as you experience physical hunger.
Recently, science has shown the benefits of intermittent fasting – it boosts your immune system, you experience greater weight loss, and your mind is sharper. Fast for 16 hours by skipping breakfast, and then eat during eight hours (for example, from 10am till 6pm). More about intermittent fasting here.
Ten years ago I blogged about fasting. Here is an excerpt.
Kinds of fast?
Total fast – no foods, just water. If you do this for more than a few days, consult with your doctor.
Juice fast – consume only fruit and vegetable juices. Most Americans eat a lot of processed foods. Juice fasts are a good means of detoxing.
The Daniel fast – based on what Daniel ate in the first chapter of Daniel in the Bible. Daniel challenged King Nebuchadnezzar’s royal foods and ate vegetables and water for 10 days saying if in the 10 days he didn’t look better than the ones eating the royal foods, then they could do with him as they saw fit.
Daniel stepped out in faith believing God had called him to eat such a diet and would protect him. God did just that and Daniel’s skin looked healthier than those eating the choice royal foods. Daniel 1:17 clearly verifies that God rewards obedience by opening doors for young Daniel. Daniel continued with his diet and worshiping God while growing in favor with the Babylonians and God was glorified!
Eat fruits, vegetables, and whole grains only. Basically eliminating meats, dairy, sweets, fried foods, sugar, soda, etc.
Here’s the bottom line:
When I am actively seeking God I can hear his voice better. When I am passive in my relationship I too frequently miss a lot of what God wants to share with me. Why not go to another level with the Lord? Join me in bringing in 2019 with a fast. Join our Facebook group here.
* If you decide to fast, please let me know and we can encourage one another.
Comments (12)
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Thanks Seth, I needed to hear this. I know personally I have been slacking and not feeling motivated to sit with the Lord or actively pursue Him- as a result I miss out and don’t hear His voice. Your last two sentences resonate with me a lot – thank you! Blessing on your and your family in this coming new year!
Seth, I will join you for 3 weeks. Maybe when there are more people a FB side can help. The last time we did the 3 week fast I was greatly encouraged by the other people. We did it before but every time is a challenge. Be blessed and we’ll stay in touch.
Leo – you’re one of the main reasons I wrote this! You are such an encouragement. Really, it’s how we first bonded.
I will be praying for you and your wife.
Praise to God .For sure this is what lneed l strongly need presence of God be blessed man of God.
Thanks, Seth. This is a reminder of what I recently told a friend. “No” is a muscle we need to exercise and fasting helps burn away the costly calories of our bent towards self-indulgence. I’ve missed our conversations. Let’s purpose to connect soon dear friend. Love you. Butch
Yes – just as faith is a muscle, so is denial. Look forward to connecting w/ you, Butch!
Please tell me more about the 2019 Danial fast challange
It’s not hard – you just have to self-manage. Accountability and encouragement helps – that’s why we’ve set up a FB group for those who are wanting to do it: https://www.facebook.com/groups/304906783501371/?fref=mentions
What is the link to the 2019 Dalial fast challange.
Please
https://www.facebook.com/groups/304906783501371/?fref=mentions
I started intermittent fasting on February 1 for two reasons: 1. to lose weight and get healthier and 2. to have more time in the morning to pray and study God’s word. I am so excited every morning when I have an extra 30 minutes or more to continue my quiet time!
This is not for 2021? Anyway, I started my 3 week fast and you’re on the list Seth. Be Blessed!