Why do we believe in fasting as well as prayer?

1. Fasting is a normal part of being a Christian. In Matthew 6:16 Jesus taught the disciples “when you fast…” – he expected that the disciples would fast as a natural part of walking out their faith.

2. We fast not because we ought to or because we’re told to. No-one has to fast, it is a choice, not a rule. It is important that no-one fasts because they are trying to gain God’s approval. When Jesus was baptised God spoke from heaven declaring that ‘this is my son with whom I am well pleased’ – Jesus had God’s approval, before he entered into his 40-day fast.

God will not love yo any more if you fast, or any less if you don’t!

3. We fast because we want more of God’s kingdom and more of God. Fasting is like “prayer-plus”. It’s a way of saying ‘God, I’m serious about seeking after you – I’m hungry for you to do more. In demonstration I choose to be hungry in my body also’.

As we pray, fast and worship we’re calling God to break in with more power in our lives.

4. We fast as a declaration that everything we need comes from God. We’re saying ‘I recognise that ultimately it’s you that I depend on’. Everything we need – clothes, food, jobs, homes, even the breath we breathe – it is all ultimately provided by God. Fasting is a way of demonstrating that all we need is God.

5. God has promised to respond when we fast. In Matthew 6:18 God promises – “and  your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” God will act. He loves it when his people seek him and he promises that something will happen, things will change.

Still want to hear more? At the beginning of 2011, Nigel preached on fasting. You can listen, or download it here:

Hungry for God? Nigel Howarth 20110130 (right-click to download)