At the end of January, I came across an opportunity to join a fast for revival that began on February 22. I heard about it in such a way that I knew in my knower that God was inviting me, even coaxing me to participate and so, after some hemming and hawing, I did. That fast comes to an end on Palm Sunday, April 2. Hundreds of thousands of people have been fasting, in various ways, pleading the blood of Jesus over our sins, the sins of our nation and asking God to let His judgment pass over America and bring revival, and more than revival....another great awakening or Jesus movement. There is a stirring in the land, a growing anticipation that God is moving and ready to move in greater measure if we ask. So we've been asking and hope you are too.
As I've participated, the topic of fasting has inevitably come up among my acquaintances, and I heard a lot of different ideas about what fasting is. Some brush away the idea as too hard, or an archaic Old Testament discipline, or 'too Catholic.' Many believe that fasting is for people with more willpower than they have, or for those more spiritual than they are. Others believe it is undertaken to twist God's arm to get the thing prayed for, or to demonstrate one's devotion and gain spiritual brownie points. None of that is even remotely true.
I can best debunk those misconceptions by sharing what fasting is to me. It is not easier for me than for anyone else. I am certainly not more spiritual than others (pause while I attempt to stop laughing hysterically), and I have terrible willpower. I hate to miss even one meal, so the idea of not eating for days on end seemed impossible as well as undesirable. I have started and failed more fasts than anyone can imagine. I have bargained my way out of fasting, fasted in ridiculous ways ("I'm giving up liver and bubble gum"), begun fasting only to stop a few days later. You name it, I've experienced it while fasting. But here's the bottom line...I don't like fasting, but I love what it produces in me.
I have learned over the years that fasting is the most vital tool I have. That might have something to do with the fact that it's God ordained. (Matthew 9:14, Mark 2:20 and a bunch of Old Testament verses). Fasting snaps a plumbline that refocuses my walk. It silences the siren call of cultural voices that beckon me to follow. It is a way to quiet the 'old man' and make him submit to the Spirit. Fasting creates more time to spend with Jesus. It reveals my tremendous need for God, by uncovering the depth of my weakness. It highlights my addiction to my appetites; for food, for entertainment, for my own opinion, for buying and collecting. I can then ask God for help in crushing those idols. Fasting hollows out a space in my soul, creating an emptiness that only God can fill. Extended fasting helps me become internally still and silent, my ears intent on hearing God's whisper, my attention focused, my longing directed at the One I was designed to adore. I become more tender and receptive to Him. I experience the satisfaction the world cannot supply, for it was never intended to. During fasting, I remember why I was created and Whose I am.
So absolutely, fasting is tough and sometimes unpleasant. But as a discipline it draws me like a magnet, not because I love asceticism but I love being close to Jesus, and fasting with prayer takes me there.
Here are some things to know about fasting: it is not for the elite, but for everyone; it does not change or coerce God, it changes me; it is God's prescribed way to clear away cultural clutter, and subdue the flesh; it gives us more bandwidth in the Spirit, so we hear God more clearly; it is something Jesus said his disciples would do, so if we are His disciples we must do it. It also settles a lot of physical disorders. I usually enjoy less arthritic pain and my stomach issues take a break as well. Fasting is now recognized by science as a health benefit, which God knew all along.
The good news is that you can learn to fast. There are many fine books on the subject, filled with the theology of fasting, practical tips on how to fast, as well as exhortation to fire you up for fasting. Start small and let God grow you in this discipline. Over time (after many partial and failed fasts) I began to see fasting as Jesus' invitation to come away with Him for a season, to be alone with Him. I learned to ask for grace to persist (because you always want to quit), and didn't let missteps make me stop. Fasting did not become easier, but became do-able.
There are many, many different ways to fast, as well as fasts of different lengths. The manner of fasting is less important than our focus during the fast. Whether we undertake water alone, or one meal a day, or 'no meats or sweets' is less important than setting yourself to draw near to God, let Him refresh you, and listen for His voice. To avoid fasting is to refuse a grace that God says we need. So when considering a fast, say in faith, "I want to know you more, show me how I can fast!" If I can do it, so can you!
If you have not experienced the pleasure of drawing near to Jesus through fasting, you are in luck. A global solemn assembly and fast has been called for May 7 through the 28th. The focus is God's purposes for Israel.* So far nearly 1,000,000 people from intercessory prayer ministries all over the world are committed to participating. Go to www.Isaiah62fast.com for more information. Then ask the Lord, "How might I fast?"
*For a teaching on why we should pray for Israel, go to
www.youtube.com/watch?v=LbL8-004u-U (message starts @ 39 minutes)
