Today we will talk about verses about fasting in the Bible. Fasting is an important spiritual practice that many Christians may not fully understand. It is not just about abstaining from food; it’s about drawing closer to God. When we fast, we make a conscious decision to put aside our earthly desires and seek a deeper connection with our Lord. Fasting can cleanse our souls and sharpen our focus, leading to growth in our faith. As we read through these verses, let’s open our hearts and allow God’s word to guide us in understanding the powerful concept of fasting.
Bible Verses About Fasting in the Bible
Purpose of Fasting
In our Christian walk, we sometimes need a reminder of why we fast. When we talk about the purpose of fasting, we can see it’s not just about skipping meals. The Bible teaches us that fasting should be about humbling ourselves before God and seeking His will. It’s like hitting the reset button on our spiritual life. In fasting, we admit our weaknesses and desire God’s strength. We long for connection and guidance, asking Him to reveal His plans for us. As we engage in fasting, may we focus on developing our relationship with God. Fasting invites us to seek Him more earnestly and thoroughly.
Matthew 6:16-18
“When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you fast, anoint 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.” – Matthew 6:16-18
Isaiah 58:6
“Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke?” – Isaiah 58:6
Joel 2:12-13
“Even now,” declares the Lord, “return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning.” Rend your heart and not your garments. Return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, and he relents from sending calamity.” – Joel 2:12-13
Acts 13:2
“While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.'” – Acts 13:2
Luke 5:33-35
“They said to him, ‘John’s disciples often fast and pray, and so do the disciples of the Pharisees, but yours go on eating and drinking.’ Jesus answered, ‘Can you make the friends of the bridegroom fast while he is with them? But the time will come when the bridegroom will be taken from them; in those days they will fast.'” – Luke 5:33-35
Types of Fasting
When we explore the various types of fasting, we come to realize that there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Different types of fasting offer unique perspectives and levels of commitment. We might find ourselves practicing a complete fast, abstaining from all food, or a partial fast, where we might give up certain types of food or drink. Some may even engage in a spiritual fast, focusing more on prayer and meditation instead of food. Each type has its place and purpose. The key is to listen to our hearts and determine which fasting method helps us the most in growing closer to God. Choosing our type of fasting can enhance our spiritual journey and deepen our connection with Him.
Matthew 4:2
“After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry.” – Matthew 4:2
2 Corinthians 6:5
“In beatings, in imprisonments, in riots, in hard work, sleepless nights and hunger.” – 2 Corinthians 6:5
Esther 4:16
“Go, gather together all the Jews who are in Susa, and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my attendants will fast as you do. When this is done, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish.” – Esther 4:16
1 Corinthians 7:5
“Do not deprive each other except for a mutual consent and for a time, so that you may devote yourselves to prayer. Then come together again so that Satan will not tempt you because of your lack of self-control.” – 1 Corinthians 7:5
Daniel 10:3
“I ate no choice food; no meat or wine touched my lips; and I used no lotions at all until the three weeks were over.” – Daniel 10:3
Spiritual Benefits of Fasting
As we dive deeper into the topic of fasting, we can discuss the spiritual benefits it holds. This sacred practice not only allows us to humble ourselves before God but also helps us gain clarity and spiritual insight. By setting aside worldly distractions, our hearts can become more sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit. We start to realize that we’re not just abstaining from food; we’re opening our hearts to hear from God. It can also lead to a more profound sense of peace and confidence in God’s promises. Fasting strengthens our faith and prepares us for challenges, empowering us to trust God even more than before. These spiritual benefits remind us why fasting is deeply rooted in our journey of faith.
Philippians 3:19
“Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is set on earthly things.” – Philippians 3:19
James 4:10
“Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.” – James 4:10
Matthew 11:29
“Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” – Matthew 11:29
Psalm 35:13
“Yet when they were ill, I put on sackcloth and humbled myself with fasting.” – Psalm 35:13
John 4:32
“But he said to them, ‘I have food to eat that you know nothing about.'” – John 4:32
Fasting for Repentance
One of the most meaningful reasons for fasting comes from a desire for repentance. In our lives, it’s easy to stray away from God’s path, and fasting provides a humble way of reconciling with the Lord. When we choose to fast for repentance, we not only acknowledge our mistakes, but we also put our focus back on God’s grace and forgiveness. It’s like coming home after being lost; fasting helps us cry out to God for mercy and strength to turn away from sin. We allow the Holy Spirit to work in us, crafting hearts that desire righteousness over worldly temptations. Fasting for repentance is not only powerful but transformative, allowing us to renew our commitment to God.
Daniel 9:3
“So I turned to the Lord God and pleaded with him in prayer and petition, in fasting, and in sackcloth and ashes.” – Daniel 9:3
Joel 2:15-16
“Blow the trumpet in Zion, declare a holy fast, call a sacred assembly. Gather the people, consecrate the assembly; bring together the elders, gather the children, those nursing at the breast. Let the bridegroom leave his room and the bride her chamber.” – Joel 2:15-16
Nehemiah 9:1-2
“On the twenty-fourth day of the same month the Israelites gathered together, fasting and wearing sackcloth and putting dust on their heads. Those of Israelite descent had settled in Jerusalem stood in their places and confessed their sins and the sins of their ancestors.” – Nehemiah 9:1-2
1 Samuel 7:6
“When they had assembled at Mizpah, they drew water and poured it out before the Lord. On that day, they fasted and there they confessed, ‘We have sinned against the Lord.’ And Samuel was leader of Israel at Mizpah.” – 1 Samuel 7:6
Luke 18:13-14
“But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, ‘God, have mercy on me, a sinner.’ I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God, for all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” – Luke 18:13-14
Fasting and Prayer
When we fast, we often connect it with prayer. In fact, fasting without prayer can sometimes feel like a missing element in our spiritual practice. Prayer gives fasting purpose and direction. As we fast and pray, we are actively seeking God’s guidance and clarity in our lives. It’s an opportunity to express our heartfelt desires and concerns while humbling ourselves before the throne of grace. Together, fasting and prayer foster an intimate relationship with God, allowing us to hear His voice more clearly. We can come to Him in situations where we need His wisdom or comfort, and fasting can amplify the sincerity of our prayers. Let us remember to intertwine fasting with prayer, resulting in a profound spiritual journey.
Mark 9:29
“He replied, ‘This kind can come out only by prayer and fasting.'” – Mark 9:29
1 Thessalonians 5:17
“pray without ceasing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:17
Matthew 17:20-21
“He replied, ‘Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, “Move from here to there,” and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.’ However, this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting.” – Matthew 17:20-21
Luke 6:12
“One of those days Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray, and spent the night praying to God.” – Luke 6:12
Acts 14:23
“Paul and Barnabas appointed elders for them in each church and, with prayer and fasting, committed them to the Lord, in whom they had put their trust.” – Acts 14:23
Fasting as a Personal Sacrifice
Fasting teaches us about sacrifice and dedication. When we set aside our meals or certain comforts, we learn to prioritize our relationship with God over our physical needs. It’s a demonstration of faith that shows our commitment to seek Him first. This personal sacrifice can be challenging, but when we put God at the forefront, we experience a transformation in our hearts. As we focus on seeking God, we realize that our spiritual growth is more valuable than our temporary desires. In fasting, we participate in a powerful act of surrender, allowing God to use our vulnerability to draw us closer to Him. By embracing fasting as a personal sacrifice, we deepen our faith and connection with God.
Romans 12:1
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.” – Romans 12:1
Galatians 5:24
“Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.” – Galatians 5:24
Luke 14:33
“In the same way, those of you who do not give up everything you have cannot be my disciples.” – Luke 14:33
Philippians 3:8
“What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ.” – Philippians 3:8
Luke 9:23
“Then he said to them all: ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.'” – Luke 9:23
Fasting as a Community
It’s encouraging to remember that fasting doesn’t have to be a solitary journey; we can also fast together as a community. When we join in collective fasting, we can support and uplift each other in prayer and devotion. This brings a sense of unity to our efforts and strengthens our bond as believers. It can be a powerful opportunity for us to seek God’s will for our community, church, or any specific cause close to our hearts. As we pray together during fasting, we can expect to see God work through our shared commitment. Fasting as a community fosters collaboration and love, reminding us of the strength we have when we unite in faith and purpose.
Matthew 18:19-20
“Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” – Matthew 18:19-20
Acts 1:14
“They all joined together constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers.” – Acts 1:14
2 Chronicles 20:3
“Alarmed, Jehoshaphat resolved to inquire of the Lord, and he proclaimed a fast for all Judah.” – 2 Chronicles 20:3
Nehemiah 1:4
“When I heard these things, I sat down and wept. For some days I mourned and fasted and prayed before the God of heaven.” – Nehemiah 1:4
Romans 15:5-6
“May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” – Romans 15:5-6
Result and Rewards of Fasting
When we examine the results and rewards of fasting, we discover that God honors our efforts to seek Him through this practice. Our spiritual discipline bears fruit in our lives as God aligns our hearts with His will. Often, we witness His hand at work through answered prayers, breakthroughs, and newfound clarity. Fasting may even lead us into deeper revelations about our lives and our relationship with God. Encouragingly, we learn that God promises rewards not just in earthly blessings but in spiritual growth and closeness to Him. As we set out on this journey of fasting, we can expect His faithfulness, knowing that He sees our hearts and our sacrifices.
Isaiah 58:9
“Then you will call, and the Lord will answer; you will cry for help, and he will say: Here am I. If you do away with the yoke of oppression, with the pointing finger and malicious talk.” – Isaiah 58:9
Matthew 6:33
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” – Matthew 6:33
Proverbs 15:29
“The Lord is far from the wicked, but he hears the prayer of the righteous.” – Proverbs 15:29
Matthew 17:21
“Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting.” – Matthew 17:21
Psalm 69:10
“When I weep and fast, I must endure scorn.” – Psalm 69:10
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on these bible verses about fasting in the Bible, it becomes clear that fasting is much more than a mere act of abstaining from food. It’s a heartfelt expression of our desire for God, a journey of repentance, growth, and transformation. When we come together in fasting, whether as individuals or as a community, we create avenues for deeper connection with God. As we make the choice to fast, let us remember that this practice is an opportunity for us to turn our hearts and minds toward God, seeking His help, wisdom, and guidance in our lives. Let these verses inspire us to embrace fasting as a sacred and powerful part of our spiritual journey.
May we approach fasting with open hearts and expectant spirits, knowing God sees our efforts and honors our commitment.
Further Reading
30 Bible Verses About Getting Closer To God (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Removing People From Your Life (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)
30 Bible Verses About Being Lukewarm (With Explanation)
4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4
