FASTING TIPS

Whether you are a beginner, or have been fasting for many years, we believe you will find these tips helpful.

BEFORE YOU FAST

• If you have any type of medical condition and/or taking any type of medication, consult your physician before fasting
• Decide the purpose of the Fast
• Start with a specific goal
• Prepare Spiritually and proclaim the fast before the Lord
• Confess your sins to God. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal areas of weakness
• Forgive all who have offended you and ask forgiveness from those you may have offended (Mark 11:25; Luke 11:4; 17:3-4)
• Reduce food intake gradually as preparation for the Fast
• Believe that you will receive the reward for fasting (Matthew 6:18)
• Evaluate your motives. Do not fast for outward appearances, fast unto God, not man (Matthew 6:16-18)

DECIDE THE LEGNTH AND TYPE OF FAST
• Full Fast: Drink only liquids (you establish the number of days) Beginners are advised to start slow
• The Daniel Fast: Eat no meat, no sweets, and no bread. Drink water and juice. Eat fruits and vegetables
• 3-Day Fast: This fast can be a Full Fast, Daniel Fast or give up at least one item of food.
• Partial Fast: A partial fast is from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm. You can select from three types of fasting —a Full Fast, Daniel Fast or give up at least one item of food.

DURING THE FAST
• Drink water and refrain from excessive work or exercise
• Resist temptation to be boastful or proud and walk-in true humility. Fasting in itself is not an act of righteousness that makes one more pious or holy.
• Plan your time wisely
• Minister to the Lord (Colossians 3:16)
• Pray, read the Word of God, confess the Word of God, meditate
• Repent, ask God to test your heart

Scripture References for Fasting:

Matthew 6:16-18
Matthew 9:14-15
Luke 18:9-14

Relation to Prayer and Reading of the Word:
1 Samuel 1:6-8, 17-18,
Nehemiah 1:4,
Daniel 9:3, 20,
Joel 2:12, Luke 2:37,
Acts 10:30, Acts 13:2

WHAT TO EXPECT
When you fast your body detoxifies, eliminating toxins from your system. This can cause mild discomfort such as headaches and irritability during withdrawal from caffeine and sugars.
So, remember what Jesus said in Matthew 6: 16-18 (NKJV) “Moreover, when you fast, do not be like the hypocrites, with a sad countenance. For they disfigure their faces that they may appear to men to be fasting. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. 17 But you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, 18 so that you do not appear to men to be fasting, but to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly. We all can get a bit edgy when we go without certain foods, coffee, or cokes for a while. So, pray that you don’t bite anyone’s head off because you’re fasting.
Fasting brings about miraculous results. You are following Jesus’ example when you fast. Spend time reading your bible, listening to worship music. Pray as often as you can throughout the day. Get away from the normal distractions as much as possible and keep your heart and mind set on seeking God’s face.

AFTER THE FAST
Here’s a tip from experience...don’t go to Outback and order the biggest, greasiest bacon cheeseburger on the menu! It will not end well. When you come off your fast, realize your body has been purified and has gone without certain things (proteins, sugars, caffeine, etc.) for some time. It will take some time for your body to re-adjust. So, don’t overeat when the time comes to end your fast. Begin eating solid food gradually; eat small portions or snacks.

A daily reminder that it is the attitude of a heart seeking Him to which God responds with blessings (Isaiah 58, Jeremiah 14:12, 1 Corinthians 8:8).

May the blessings of the Lord be with you as you fast!

If you feel led to fast, and you have any type of medical condition and/or taking any type of medication, and/or under any type of medical restrictions etc.., consult your physician before fasting. Going without food will affect your body. Use wisdom and pray for guidance. Beginners are advised to start slow.