HOW TO FAST

#1 Understand WHAT is prayer and fasting

It is in prayer that we connect to God as He, too, communicates with us. Similarly, in fasting, we abstain from something – such as food, objects, or activities – to devote time and energy to spend with God in prayer. Fasting does NOT make us more holy nor does it earn God’s favor. Instead, it provides space for us to encounter and experience God more in our lives. 

#2 Define your WHYs

Before the set time for prayer and fasting, ask yourself these questions: 

• Why am I engaging in prayer and fasting? 

• What concerns do I want to lift to the Lord this season? 

Reminders as you start to fast

Start your fast gradually.

• Cut down on food intake before beginning your fast

• Rest as much as you can and limit strenuous activities

• Be wary of experiencing physical discomfort (such as hunger pangs, headaches, weakness, sleeplessness, etc.) due to insufficient food intake or withdrawal from caffeine and sugar

Prepare your heart and mind.

• Confess your sins to God

• Avoid temptations (e.g. impatience, crankiness, anxiety, impulsiveness, etc.)

• Be committed to obeying God

• Experience God’s transforming power in your perspective, attitude, and behavior

Remember that the focus of fasting is on God and prayer, not on the abstinence from food or other activities alone.

Reminders as you end your fast

End your fast gradually. 

• Slowly adjust to your regular food intake with easy-to-digest food and small, frequent meals

• Start on low-impact workouts and activities to ease you back to your usual pace 

Press on in communing with God through prayer.