Fasting is a spiritual discipline found throughout Scripture. It’s not about earning God’s favor or proving spiritual strength—it’s about creating space to seek God with greater focus and dependence.
What Is Fasting?
Biblical fasting is the intentional abstaining from food for a spiritual purpose.
“Yet even now,” declares the Lord, “return to me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning;
— Joel 2:12 ESV
Why Do We Fast?
In the Bible, people fasted to:
- Seek God’s direction (Acts 13:2)
- Humble themselves before Him (Psalm 35:13)
- Repent and realign their hearts (Ezra 8:23)
- Prepare for spiritual battles (Mark 9:29)
What Fasting Is Not
Jesus taught that fasting is not a performance or a way to manipulate God (Matthew 6:16). God desires a sincere heart, not religious display or a growling stomach.
What Happens When We Fast?
Fasting doesn’t change God—it changes us. It sharpens spiritual focus, deepens prayer, increases hunger for God’s Word, and so much more.
“‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’”
— Matthew 4:4 ESV
A Simple Truth
Fasting is saying no to something physical to say yes to something spiritual.
“Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts…
— James 4:8 ESV
Different Kinds of Fasting
The Bible describes several ways people fasted. Not every fast looks the same, but each one is about seeking God with intention and humility. Fasting usually comes alongside a commitment of time ranging from sunrise to sunset, three days, three weeks (21 days) or even 40 days (like Jesus in the desert).
1. Full Fast
Abstaining from all food for a period of time (water only).
2. Partial Fast
Giving up certain foods or meals for a set time. Also known as a “Daniel Fast”, which is often abstaining from sugar, grains, meat and alcohol – eating only vegetables and drinking water.
“I ate no delicacies, no meat or wine entered my mouth, nor did I anoint myself at all, for the full three weeks.
— Daniel 3:10 ESV
3. Corporate Fast
A fast observed together as a community or church. This is what we call our church to in January every year during 21 Days of Prayer and Fasting.
“Blow the trumpet in Zion; consecrate a fast; call a solemn assembly;
— Joel 2:15 ESV
4. Crisis or Breakthrough Fast
Fasting in response to urgent need, repentance, or spiritual battle.
“So we fasted and implored our God for this, and he listened to our entreaty.
— Ezra 8:23 ESV