This article builds upon the previous one: Meant For Lent #1 :: Pray Everyday
Fasting has always been a particularly difficult discipline for many, but the Bible seems fairly clear in its stance regarding this subject: It is an indivisible part of our prayer experience. Amongst many examples throughout Scriptures, both Jesus and Moses began their earthly ministries by spending many days alone in the wilderness with God fasting.
Fasting is not a weight loss programme but a ‘selfishness-loss’ programme.
“Prayer without fasting seemed to lack seriousness: words see such fluffy things! But when you feel something in your stomach, then you are earnest in your words. Then you are taking prayer seriously and asking God to take your needs seriously”
(Thomas O’Loughlin, The Didache p.70).
Fasting makes our heart more tender before the Lord. When we choose to fast, we are telling the Lord “I need You more than my most basic human needs.” We learn to no longer lean into our own understanding, but rather lean into His heart.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways submit to him,
and he will make your paths straight.
Proverbs 3:15-16
Try to fast at least once a week and be specific about the intention of your fast.