Let’s be honest: fasting sounds kind of… strange to many of us today.
Sure, we’ve heard of intermittent fasting—it’s all the rage in the health and fitness world. People skip meals for physical benefits like better focus, weight loss, or metabolic health. But fasting as a spiritual practice? That often feels like a relic of another era.
For many Christians, fasting can seem suspicious or overly “religious.” Maybe it brings to mind images of Catholic Lent traditions, or giving up chocolate in the weeks leading up to Easter. And in many evangelical circles, fasting isn’t exactly a hot topic—it rarely shows up in sermons, Bible studies, or church programs.
But here’s the thing: Jesus expected His followers to fast.
He didn’t say if you fast—He said when. That should grab our attention.
What Is Christian Fasting, Really?
At its core, Christian fasting is the voluntary giving up of food for spiritual purposes. It’s not a way to earn God’s favor or appear “extra holy.” It’s not spiritual performance. It’s an act of worship—an expression of humility, dependence, and desire for more of God.
And this isn’t just my take. It’s exactly what Jesus taught.
In Matthew 6, Jesus outlines three foundational practices: giving, praying, and fasting. He says, “When you give…”, “When you pray…”, and yes, “When you fast…”—all with the clear assumption that His followers will be doing these things.
But Jesus also warns us not to turn fasting into a show. He challenges those who fast to be discreet—not somber or performative. Why? Because fasting is meant to be God-focused, not people-pleasing.
So… Why Fast?
Let’s be real—fasting isn’t easy. Going without food isn’t exactly enjoyable. And for many of us, the big question is, why bother?
Here’s why: fasting is one of the most soul-strengthening tools God has given us.
John Piper once said, “The greatest enemy of hunger for God is not poison but apple pie.” In other words, it’s not necessarily sinful things that dull our appetite for God—it’s our comfort. It’s the constant distraction and self-indulgence that can slowly numb our spiritual hunger.
Fasting, then, is like recalibrating our souls. When we fast, we’re saying, “God, I need You more than I need lunch. I want to be satisfied in You more than anything else.” Fasting creates space to pray, reflect, repent, and long for Jesus more deeply.
Real-Life Examples from Scripture
Take Anna the prophetess in Luke 2. We’re told she “worshiped with fasting and prayer night and day.” She gave up food in order to spend more time with God—and she was one of the first to recognize the baby Jesus as the Messiah.
Or consider Jesus’ own words in Matthew 9. When asked why His disciples weren’t fasting, He replied that while He was with them, it was time for rejoicing. But when He was taken away—then His disciples would fast.
That’s now. We’re living in the “waiting” time between Jesus’ first and second coming. And in this in-between season, fasting becomes a way to express our longing for Him, our anticipation of His return, and our hope in what’s to come.
How to Start Fasting as a Christian
Fasting might feel intimidating if it’s new to you, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are a few practical ways to get started:
- Start small
Don’t jump into a 3-day fast if you’ve never done it before. Begin by skipping one meal, and use that time to pray or read Scripture. - Have a purpose
Don’t fast just for the sake of it. Are you seeking guidance? Grieving something? Praying for someone’s salvation? Write down your purpose and pray with intention. - Plan your time
If you skip breakfast, don’t just use the extra time to scroll your phone. Set aside that slot for prayer, reflection, journaling, or worship. - Fast with others
While fasting is often private, there’s biblical precedent for corporate fasts. Try fasting with your small group or a few church friends. Encourage one another! - Fast from something other than food
Some people can’t safely fast from meals due to health reasons—and that’s okay. Try fasting from social media, Netflix, or any habit that tends to dull your awareness of God.
A Spiritual Discipline for Today
Fasting isn’t about proving anything to God. It’s not about appearing more spiritual. And it’s definitely not a punishment.
Fasting is a grace-filled invitation—an opportunity to quiet the noise of life, recalibrate your heart, and feast on God’s presence. It’s about longing for the day when Jesus will return, when the ultimate feast will begin, and we’ll be with Him forever.
Until then, we fast. Not because we have to, but because we want more of Him.
So maybe the real question isn’t, “Why should I fast?”
Maybe the better question is, “Why wouldn’t I?”
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst
for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.”
Matthew 5:6
Chalmers' Blog 