What does the Bible say about Fasting?

Fasting is a very inherent spiritual discipline in all churches of Christ. It involves abstinence from food and drink for a certain period, practiced subsequently with prayer. Fasting is viewed as a means of getting closer to God, demonstrating repentance, and seeking divine direction.

We will further look into what the Bible says regarding fasting by asking and answering certain questions, including the top verses in the Bible about fasting, to understand the spiritual and practical aspects thereof.

Q: What are the top Bible verses about fasting?

A: The Bible contains numerous references to fasting, highlighting its significance and purpose. Here are key verses from the Gospels:

Matthew 4:1-2

“Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry.”

The example of Jesus fasting in the wilderness while preparing to begin His public ministry is influential. It points out the role of fasting in seeking strength and guidance from God.

Luke 2:36-37

“There was also a prophet, Anna, the daughter of Penuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was very old; she had lived with her husband seven years after her marriage, and then was a widow until she was eighty-four. She never left the temple but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying.”

Anna lived a life of fasting and praying as a way of proving one’s devotion and faithfulness. What she does here by example is show that fasting is the way to having a personal encounter with God.

Matthew 9:14-15

“Then John’s disciples came and asked him, ‘How is it that we and the Pharisees fast often, but your disciples do not fast?’ Jesus answered, ‘How can the guests of the bridegroom mourn while he is with them? The time will come when the bridegroom will be taken from them; then they will fast.'”

Jesus explained that there was no need to fast while He was with His disciples, but after departure, they would fast. This passage clearly indicates fasting as proper in times of seeking God’s presence and guidance.

Q: What does Jesus say about fasting?

A: In His teaching about how the disciples were to live their lives, Jesus taught there was a place for fasting in their lives, but it must not be for public show. His approach towards fasting focuses more on the internal spiritual condition rather than its outward manifestations.

Q: What are the biblical rules for fasting?

A: Some fasted absolutely, in which abstinence from food and water is required (Esther 4:16), while others were of partial fasting—wherein abstinence is involved in a particular food or activity (Daniel 1:12).

Therefore, the Bible does not lay out strict rules for fasting but provides principles to guide the practice, such as:

• Heartfelt and Voluntary: Fasting is an act of free will, driven by a desire to connect with God.
• Spiritual Growth: Fasting is usually accompanied by praying and asking for God’s guidance.
• Humility and Repentance: It can mean a time to remind oneself of complete dependence on God and a real appeal for forgiveness.

Q: Are you supposed to fast in the Bible?

A: Though the Bible does not require all believers to fast, it is presented as a valuable spiritual discipline (Matthew 9:14-15). The practice is recommended for seeking God, as an expression of repentance, and in preparing for significant spiritual activities.

Q: What is true fasting according to the Bible?

A: Seeking God’s presence and abiding by His will, often coupled with church prayer and good deeds, is the biblical definition of true fasting.

Q: What is the powerful Bible verse for fasting?

A: Matthew 6:17-18 is one of the most powerful verses about fasting in the Bible, where Jesus teaches, “But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” This verse conveys the essence of fasting with one’s right heart and motive for God alone, instead of looking towards men.

Q: What are the true fasting Bible verses?

A: A few of the true fasting Bible verses are:

• Matthew 6:16-18, which teaches fasting with the right intentions.
• Matthew 9:14-15, where Jesus explains the appropriate time for fasting.
• Luke 2:36-37, which highlights Anna’s life of fasting and prayer.

Q: What kind of fasting does the Bible recommend?

A: The Bible encourages fasting with the right intentions, focusing on spiritual growth and helping others in need.

These Bible verses clearly state the importance and role of fasting in the Christian faith. It’s been a practice kept and owned by believers throughout generations, giving it relevance and a vital place in spiritual life today.