The practice of Fasting is voluntary denial of something for a period of time in order to give God more undivided attention.
“Next Jesus was taken into the wild by the Spirit for the Test. The Devil was ready to give it. Jesus prepared for the Test by fasting forty days and forty nights.” Matthew 4:1-3
“When you practice some appetite-denying discipline to better concentrate on God, don’t make a production out of it. It might turn you into a small-time celebrity but it won’t make you a saint. If you ‘go into training’ inwardly, act normal outwardly. Shampoo and comb your hair, brush your teeth, wash your face. God doesn’t require attention-getting devices. He won’t overlook what you are doing; he’ll reward you well." Matthew 6:16-18
Ways to Practice:
Ask God to help you be aware of self-indulgent, addictive, or compulsive behaviors that may be keeping you from fully enjoying God’s presence, and if fasting would be helpful in this situation.
For a period of time (one meal, ½ day, full day, during Lent, or some other time frame), abstain from these (sometimes natural, normal) behaviors. When you feel the desire to do these things, turn your attention to God. Pray, read scripture, serve someone else.
Don’t consume food, drink, media, entertainment, conveniences, etc, in your usual way. Abstain from social media, sweets, alcohol, complaining, etc.
*Before fasting from food, talk with someone familiar with fasting or a medical professional about methods for safe fasting.
What results might we expect?
opportunity for more regular communication with God
clarity of mind and singularity of purpose
recognizing and repenting, and gaining freedom from self-indulgent, addictive, or compulsive behaviors
wisdom & guidance from and shaping by God
“More than any other discipline, fasting reveals the things that control us.” - Richard Foster
For more exploration of Fasting:
https://www.leadershiptransformations.org/documents/2013.04.Silencio.Fasting.pdf