Is Biblical Fasting Right for Me?

The purpose of fasting is to draw you closer to God. It involves taking your eyes off the things of “the world”/denying the “flesh” in order to focus on God. This could mean releasing anything we are holding too tightly; things we are tempted to keep in our own control vs releasing to God. These are often referred to as “idols.”

During certain seasons, some churches fast together in order to grow deeper in their walk with God, or to pray over specific issues. Fasting typically involves giving up food during certain times, or giving up certain foods. For this reason, I’ve had clients raise concerns about fasting when they have a history of restrictive disordered eating.

Let me start by saying—fasting is between you, and God. The first thing I would recommend is to ask for God’s wisdom. Ask Him to search your heart, and your hidden motivations. If you are being followed by a medical provider, ask if fasting is a safe option for you.

If you are considering fasting from food in any way, ask God to reveal your true motives. Is restricting food an idol for you? Are you fasting to draw you closer to God, and release your own idols…or is this a “secret” chance to restrict?

If you sense your motives aren’t pure, or fasting from food may interfere with your recovery, ask God to show you what you are holding too tightly. Your fasting may look different from others, and may involve separating from whatever you feel tempted to put before God. As you fast, take this time to pray for freedom.

What are some “safer” ways to fast? If you choose to involve food, and it isn’t deemed unsafe by a medical provider, perhaps you could delay a meal or snack for a time vs taking it away? Perhaps you could release a “safe” food for a season, and challenge a food fear?

If you choose not to involve food, here are more suggestions for things to release: Social Media. TV. Weighing yourself. Checking your body in the mirror. Shopping. Being on your phone. Complaining. Bathing. (Just kidding :)) The list could go on and on…