Benefits of Fasting

Sunday, December 22, 2024

Happy Sunday Beloved
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TOPIC: Benefits of Fasting

Author
Tunde Eso

Benefits of Fasting

Fasting is a spiritual discipline deeply embedded in the Bible, observed by many of the faithful throughout history. It is a practice that involves abstaining from food or certain pleasures for a period of time in order to seek God more earnestly, purify oneself, and grow in faith. While fasting is often associated with self-denial, the Bible reveals several profound spiritual and practical benefits that come from this practice.

1. Drawing Closer to God

One of the primary benefits of fasting is the opportunity to draw nearer to God. In the Old and New Testaments, fasting was a means by which individuals and communities sought God's presence and intervention.

In Matthew 6:16-18, Jesus teaches that fasting should be done in secret, not for outward show, but as an act of humility and devotion to God:
"But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that your fasting will not be obvious to men, but to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you."
Fasting creates space for quiet reflection and prayer, allowing believers to focus more deeply on their relationship with God.

Similarly, in the book of Esther, Queen Esther and the Jewish people fasted to seek God's favour and deliverance from a dire situation (Esther 4:16). Their fasting was not a mere physical act but a spiritual cry for God's intervention. In this way, fasting serves as a catalyst for deepening one's spiritual connection and seeking God's will.

2. Spiritual Strength and Empowerment

Fasting is often a means of gaining spiritual strength. When faced with challenges or temptation, fasting helps believers overcome the flesh and strengthen their resolve. In Matthew 4:1-11, Jesus fasted for forty days in the wilderness before being tempted by Satan. Despite His physical weakness, He emerged spiritually empowered, resisting the devil's temptations with the power of Scripture.

This spiritual fortification is echoed in the story of the apostles in Mark 9:29. When the disciples were unable to cast out a demon, Jesus explained that certain spiritual battles require prayer and fasting. Fasting, therefore, is a powerful weapon against both external and internal spiritual struggles. It is a reminder that strength comes not from human effort alone but from God's power.

3. Humbling the Soul

The Bible frequently speaks about the humbling effects of fasting. In Psalm 35:13, David says:
"But as for me, when they were sick, my clothing was sackcloth; I humbled myself with fasting."
Fasting, especially when accompanied by repentance, humbles the soul and draws believers away from self-reliance and pride. It reminds individuals of their dependence on God for everything—food, strength, and even life itself.

In Isaiah 58:6-7, the Lord makes it clear that fasting is not just a physical act, but a spiritual one that should lead to genuine change in the heart and actions. He rejects mere ritual fasting that is done out of obligation, instead desiring fasting that leads to justice, kindness, and selfless service:
"Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke? Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter?"

True fasting, then, humbles a person not only in body but also in spirit, fostering a life of compassion, humility, and service to others.

4. Repentance and Forgiveness

Another significant benefit of fasting is its role in repentance and receiving forgiveness. In the Old Testament, when people turned away from God, fasting was often a visible sign of their repentance. In Joel 2:12-13, God calls His people to return to Him with fasting and weeping, promising mercy:
"Even now," declares the Lord, "return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning."

Fasting, accompanied by sincere repentance, can lead to restoration and a renewed relationship with God.

Fellow Member, Reverence, Bishop, Archbishop, Head, Prophet, Evangelist, Senior, Leader, Pastor, Women and Men. The Lord will bless us more from now in Jesus name. Our blessings shall more from Glory to Glory in Jesus name. Happy New Year 2025

Enjoy God's Mercy always and Thank God is another blessed Week!  Happy New Year 2025.

Author
Tunde Eso
Head Pastor,
Psalms Christian Centre (PCC)
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Pray today and God shall answer your prayer in Jesus name. Amen.
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