Types of Fasting

The principle of fasting is to deny oneself of something enjoyed regularly in order to seek the Lord. The type of fast you choose is between you and God. Allow the Holy Spirit to stretch you when discerning what is the best fast for you. What fast has He led you to participate in?

  1. Full Fast: drink only liquids for a determined period of time.

  2. Daniel Fast: no meats, no sweets, no bread, only whole grains. Drink water and/or juices and eat fruits and/or vegetables for a determined period of time.

  3. Traditional Jewish Fast: follow a full fast from sunrise to sunset for a determined period of time.

  4. Specific Item Fast: refrain from consuming a specific preferred food or beverage like caffeine, sugar, etc., or an activity, like television or social media, for a determined period of time.

Tips

  1. Start with a Clear Goal—When you are approaching a fast it is better to ask yourself, “In response to what am I fasting?” Instead of, “What do I hope that I will get out of it?” What moment have you just experienced or will experience in the near future (i.e. a particularly tough year, a year full of unknowns ahead, or a specific need that you have and etc.)?

  2. Prepare Your Spirit—Confess sin. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal areas of weakness. Forgive anyone who has hurt you and ask forgiveness from anyone you know you have wronged. Remember, biblical fasting is a response to a sacred moment that has happened or that is in the near future. It is helpful to remember that fasting is a response and not an instrument.

  3. Decide What—figure out which type of fast is best for you and commit to it. Remember to use the time when you are not eating (or engaging in whatever you're fasting) to read and pray.

  4. Decide How Long—as a church, we are embracing a 40 Day fasting period in observance of the Lenten Season. Regarding food fasts, beginners are advised to start slow. Use wisdom and pray for guidance.

  5. What to Expect—when you fast solid foods/certain foods, your body detoxifies, eliminating toxins from your system. You may experience some discomfort such as headaches and irritability as you go through withdrawal from sugar or caffeine. And naturally, you will have hunger pangs and cravings. Exercise in moderation. Take time to rest. You are following the example of Jesus when you fast. Spend time listening to praise and worship music. Pray often throughout the day. Get away from normal distractions as much as possible and keep your heart set on seeking God.

  6. How to End—don’t overdo when the time comes to end your fast. Resume eating normally at a slow pace.