Recently, I was asked to teach on the subject of fasting. I knew I was dealing with a subject that is not practiced a whole lot these days. What’s more, I live in a country where the national pastime is eating. Let’s face it—we all love our edibles. So it’s kind of strange to talk about fasting to a group of people who would prefer discussing their favorite fast food!

Long ago, the disciples of Jesus were feasting at a time when fasting was considered the religiously correct thing to do. Not surprisingly, they were criticized for not fasting as the other people were doing (Matthew 9:14). Jesus stated that His disciples would fast only after He was taken away from them (v.15). Many Bible scholars believe that we are living in the time He was referring to—between His ascension and His second coming (Acts 1:9-12). If that’s true, this is the time for us to fast.

Jesus asked: “Do wedding guests mourn while celebrating with the groom?” (Matthew 9:15). By this question He revealed a key reason for fasting—repentance and sorrow for sin. When convicted of idolatry, the Jews repented with fasting (1 Samuel 7:3-6). And due to national emergencies, they fasted again, humbly trusting God to act on their behalf (2 Chronicles 20:1-4; Esther 4:16).

Only one direct command to fast is found in Scripture. The Israelites were to fast once a year on the Day of Atonement. On that day, the high priest entered the Holy of Holies to offer sacrifices to atone for the sins of the whole nation (Leviticus 16:29-31).

Fasting also reminds us that it is God who sustains us. Food may keep us going physically, but God’s Word sustains us spiritually (Matthew 4:4).

Feast on God’s Word and fast when necessary!