December 28, 2010

How can the act of letting go of something that feeds us help us become more aware of our hunger from God? Perhaps that is what Jesus meant when in Matthew 4:4 he declared that people would live off the word that came from God! There is a deeper longing in human beings that can only be met in a supernatural way and by Someone bigger than us. At least, that is what I believe. We may be tempted to substitute that longing with someone or something that is ephemeral.

Let’s take a look at a couple of reasons and contexts for fasting. There are many reasons for fasting in religious history, and no examples are exactly alike. There are no exact formulas, but there are wrong motives.

“Even if we wanted to, we could not manipulate God. We fast and pray for results, but the results are in God’s hands”
-Elmer L Towns*

There are studies that have shown that fasting has physical and mental benefits. When it comes to the spiritual benefits, people’s experiences may vary, but if the purpose of fasting is to manipulate God or for personal fulfillment alone, we have failed. In Zechariah 7:4, God asks the people to examine themselves: Is it really for me that you did a fast?

We fast to give God honor. We then become more attentive to Him, and find our joy in Him.

There are so many examples of spiritual fasts in the Bible! These two really caught my attention this week.

1. Acts 9:9-
Paul could not see clearly yet -literally!- and went without food or water for three days. He had just met Jesus for the first time and his worldview was then turned upside down. His passion and zeal for God was redirected and he needed God’s direction! Sometimes, while we pray and fast, we have no idea how God will move. In Paul’s case,a stranger named Ananais heard from God and was led to Paul in order to give him more instructions. God will open up a new life or calling …somehow… or will lead people on our path to help us as we humble ourselves and realize our need for Him.

2. Acts 14:22-25-
Look at verse 23. It is Paul’s turn to encourage the followers of Jesus and spiritual leaders. They acknowledge (in verse 22) that there would be tough times. They also encouraged them and dedicated them to the Lord…how?…with prayer and fasting. We will be focusing on eleven people group in during the first eleven days of the New Year. Among these people groups, there are church leaders and spiritual leaders, and also people of all ages. They will need prayers from people who’s heart is aligned with God and who’s spiritual ears are attentive to His voice. We are seeking to be renewed for ourselves but also in order to bless others and “commit them to the Lord.”

Hope to see you on Wednesday night or at least through the next post where we’ll explore precautions and alternatives related to a spiritual fast.

joy and hope and blessings!
-pastorSabine

Tip: If you are thinking of joining in the experience of fasting this coming Friday, you may want to consider now weaning off sugars, caffeine and junk foods to reduce potential withdrawal symptoms!

*From:Fasting for Spiritual Break Through:A Guide to Nine Fasts, pg. 17.

Disclaimer: This post and the ones preceding this one on the topic of fasting does not constitute medical advice. Readers are advised not to act based on the information contained in this post without consulting a certified medical practitioner, especially if his or her health is at risk or compromised.