A little more info on fasting.

I was reading to the kids last night a story out of the new bible I just got and came across a good deal of info on fasting. I’m not sure how I missed this during my fast, but I thought it was relevant enough to share with you in case you decide to fast in the future.If none of this interests you, well sorry, but if it does keep reading.:)

The Bible I have is called “The Women’s Study Bible New King James Version.” I normally read an NIV (New International Version), but I found this info in the notes under Matthew 6:16-18. The chapter was talking about Fasting to be seen only by God. The notes said that fasting in the Greek language is the word nesteia which means to abstain from food. This can be done completely for a short time or from certain foods for a longer period of time.

I learned that fasting was practiced for several reasons;

• as a sign of mourning (1 Sam. 31:13; Esther 4:1-3).
• as an act of personal or corporate repentance (1 Sam 7:6; Dan. 9:3-19).
• as a means of gaining God’s attention on behalf of suffering or sickness( 2 Sam. 12:16-23).
• in a critical time of decision making (2 Chr. 20:1-18, Esth. 4:16, 1 Cor:7:5).
• or as the natural result of urgent prayer (2 Cor. 6:5; 11:27).

Jesus fasted for 40 days to prepare for His ministry and to strengthen His soul for His confrontation with Satan (Matt. 4:1,2). He also affirmed fasting as something to do during times of intense prayer (Matt. 17:21). Also, early Christians fasted in preparation of major events (Acts 13:2,3 : 14:23)

The bottom line is, fasting is meant to draw a believer in Jesus closer to him. When you say no to desires you’ve always given into, there is somewhat of a desperation for something to fill those desires and Jesus is waiting to fill those needs for you. God isn’t necessarily moved by fasting itself, but rather by turning your heart toward him and seeking righteousness (Acts 10: 30-33). I know for me personally, when I wanted sugar, coffee or pizza I was definitely wanting comfort and instant gratification. I had to learn though to let God comfort me with his word and let Him be enough for me. It wasn’t always easy, but the more I said no to the junk, the more clearly I could hear God speak and I noticed with so much more clarity His hand in my life.

I’m not sure if this means anything to you or not, but if nothing else you’ve gotten a mini lesson on fasting and it will give you something interesting to talk about it work tomorrow:)

Thanks so much for stopping by.

Sincerely,

Paige