How can you and I develop the habit of fasting? You see, fasting is one of the most powerful tools that we can use to strengthen our faith, seek God’s will in our lives, and get closer to our Heavenly Father. However, not everyone knows how to start fasting and make it a regular part of their spiritual journey. That’s why, in this blog, let me share with you the 8 crucial steps to developing the habit of fasting.

Number 1. Study the Scriptures

This is one of the most important steps if you want to start developing the habit of fasting. Familiarize yourself with Bible verses such as Matthew 6:16-18, where it says:

¹⁶ “Moreover, when you fast, do not be like the hypocrites, with a sad countenance. For they disfigure their faces that they may appear to men to be fasting. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. ¹⁷ But you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, ¹⁸ so that you do not appear to men to be fasting, but to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.

In this passage, Jesus teaches about fasting as part of his Sermon on the Mount. He emphasizes the importance of sincerity and authenticity in fasting, cautioning against hypocrisy and showing off one’s spiritual practices to gain praise from others. Instead, Jesus advises fasting in a discreet manner, with a focus on one’s relationship with God rather than public recognition.

Another Bible passage includes Joel 2:12-15, where we read:

¹² “Now, therefore,” says the LORD,
“Turn to Me with all your heart,
With fasting, with weeping, and with mourning.”
¹³ So rend your heart, and not your garments;
Return to the LORD your God,
For He is gracious and merciful,
Slow to anger, and of great kindness;
And He relents from doing harm.
¹⁴ Who knows if He will turn and relent,
And leave a blessing behind Him—
A grain offering and a drink offering
For the LORD your God?
¹⁵ Blow the trumpet in Zion,
Consecrate a fast,
Call a sacred assembly.

The Book of Joel in the Old Testament contains a call to repentance and fasting. In these verses, the prophet Joel urges the people of Israel to return to God with fasting, weeping, and mourning, as a way to demonstrate genuine remorse for their sins. The passage emphasizes the idea of collective repentance and turning back to God with sincere hearts.

Finally, read Acts 27:9 tells us:

⁹ Now when much time had been spent, and sailing was now dangerous because the Fast was already over, Paul advised them…

This verse is part of the narrative in the New Testament book of Acts, where the apostle Paul is traveling by ship. It mentions that much time had passed, and it had become dangerous to continue the voyage because it was after the Day of Atonement. This verse proves that the Day of Atonement is still a Holy Day that Christians must keep even after the death of Jesus Christ (Yahshua).

Number 2. Seek Guidance and Prayer

Fasting is done with God in mind. So, it is only right for us to seek His guidance through prayer. Before beginning a fast, ask for His wisdom and discernment to understand how you should incorporate fasting into your spiritual journey. Pray for strength, focus, and spiritual growth during your fasting experience. Moreover, pray for God to bless your fast, that you fast according to His will and it will not go in vain.

Number 3. Start Small and Gradually

Starting small and gradually increasing the duration of fasting is a prudent approach, especially for those who are new to fasting or unfamiliar with its effects on the body and mind. Here’s a breakdown of this step:

Step 1. Starting with Shorter Fasts

This entails initiating fasting with shorter durations, such as skipping a single meal or fasting for a specific part of the day, such as from breakfast to lunchtime. Shorter fasts are more manageable and allow individuals to gauge their tolerance and comfort level with fasting.

Step 2. Introducing Intermittent Fasting

Intermittent fasting involves cycling between periods of eating and fasting. It can include methods like the 16/8 method (fasting for 16 hours and eating within an 8-hour window) or the 5:2 method (eating normally for five days and restricting calorie intake on two non-consecutive days). Intermittent fasting provides flexibility and can be an accessible way to incorporate fasting into one’s routine.

Step 3. Gradually Increasing Duration

As individuals become more accustomed to fasting and feel comfortable with shorter fasts or intermittent fasting, they can gradually increase the duration of fasting periods. This might involve extending fasting hours, fasting for an entire day, or exploring more extended fasting protocols, such as 24-hour fasts or multi-day fasts.

Step 4. Allowing Adjustment Time

Starting with shorter fasts allows the body and mind to adjust gradually to the changes associated with fasting. It gives individuals time to observe how fasting affects their energy levels, mood, concentration, and overall well-being. This adjustment period is essential for developing a sustainable fasting practice that aligns with individual needs and preferences.

Remember that fasting is meant to afflict your soul. Fasting will surely cause discomfort, pain, and weakness. However, this should not keep you from fasting, rather, it’s an experience that will surely humble you and help you discover where your strength really lies.

Number 4. Set Clear Intentions

Before fasting, you should reflect on your reasons for fasting and identify the specific purpose or intention behind it. This might include seeking God’s guidance in a particular decision or life circumstance, repenting for past actions or behaviors, pursuing a spiritual breakthrough or renewal, or deepening one’s relationship with Yahweh.

Having clear intentions helps you stay focused and committed to your fasting goals, especially during moments of challenge or temptation. When faced with difficulties or distractions, you can remind yourself of the purpose behind your fast and draw strength from your intentions to persevere.

Remember that setting clear intentions fosters a deeper spiritual connection during fasting. It cultivates a sense of purposefulness and mindfulness, allowing you to approach fasting as a sacred practice aimed at spiritual growth, transformation, and alignment with divine will.

Number 5. Plan and Prepare

Plan your fasting period in advance. Consider your schedule, commitments, and personal circumstances when planning your fasting period. Choose a time when you can devote adequate attention to your fast without being overly burdened by work, social obligations, or other distractions. Decide on the duration of your fast, whether it’s a few hours, a full day, or a multi-day fast, based on your comfort level and previous fasting experiences.

Prepare your body for fasting by consuming nutritious meals leading up to the fast. Focus on incorporating whole foods, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats into your diet to provide essential nutrients and energy reserves. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water in the days leading up to your fast to prevent dehydration during the fasting period.

Number 6. Engage in Spiritual Practices

Allocate specific time slots during your fasting period for prayer, meditation, reading the Bible, and other spiritual activities. Since fasting frees up time that would otherwise be spent on meal preparation and consumption and other usual activities, use this extra time intentionally to focus on your spiritual journey. Here are some of the most important parts of your fasting:

Part 1. Prayer

Prayer is a fundamental spiritual practice that allows you to communicate with Yahweh, express gratitude, seek guidance, and cultivate a deeper relationship with God. Set aside moments throughout the day for private prayer, intercession, and communion with our Heavenly Father. Use this time to pour out your heart, share your hopes and concerns, and listen to God’s voice.

Part 2. Reading the Bible

Spend time reading and reflecting on passages from the Bible that resonate with you or address themes relevant to your fasting experience. Delve into the teachings, stories, and wisdom contained in the scriptures, allowing them to inspire, comfort, and guide you on your spiritual journey.

Part 3. Reflecting on God’s Word

Take time to reflect deeply on the messages and insights gleaned from reading the Bible. Consider how these teachings apply to your life, challenges, and aspirations. Engage in journaling, meditation, or contemplative practices to document your reflections, insights, and spiritual experiences during the fasting period.

Part 4. Deepening Your Relationship with God: Use the fasting period as an opportunity to deepen your relationship with God and draw closer to the divine presence. Cultivate an attitude of openness, receptivity, and surrender, allowing God to work in your life and transform your heart and mind.

Number 7. Practice Self-Discipline

Fasting requires self-discipline and self-control. Use the opportunity to develop these virtues by resisting the urge to eat and focusing on your spiritual goals. Remind yourself of the purpose and intentions behind your fast. Having a clear understanding of why you’re fasting can strengthen your resolve and motivation to exercise self-discipline.

View hunger pangs as opportunities to turn to God in prayer and seek His strength and guidance. Instead of viewing hunger as a purely physical sensation to be avoided, see it as a reminder of your spiritual journey and reliance on divine sustenance.

Find healthy ways to cope with discomfort or cravings during fasting. Engage in activities that distract you from thoughts of food, such as reading, spending time in nature, or engaging in creative pursuits. Lean on your faith community or supportive friends for encouragement and accountability.

Number 8. End the Fast with Prayer and Reflection

Ending a fast with prayer and reflection is a meaningful way to conclude the fasting experience and integrate its lessons into your spiritual journey. Begin by expressing gratitude to God for His presence, guidance, and strength during the fasting period. Recognize and appreciate the support and sustenance you received from Yahweh throughout the journey. You can also take time to reflect on your fasting experience and its impact on your spiritual growth and well-being. Consider the challenges you faced, the insights you gained, and the ways in which you drew closer to God during the fast.

Consider journaling your thoughts, reflections, and insights from the fasting journey. Writing down your experiences can help solidify your learnings, provide a record of your spiritual growth, and serve as a source of inspiration and guidance for future fasts.

Offer prayers for continued guidance, strength, and spiritual growth as you transition out of the fasting period. Seek God’s blessings for the journey ahead and commit to applying the lessons learned from the fast in your daily life.

Develop the Habit of Fasting

Remember, fasting is a personal journey, and each person’s experience may vary. It is essential to approach it with a sincere heart, seeking God’s presence and guidance.

Devote at least one day a month to 24-hour fasting. You can also fast more often than that. Of course, the frequency of your fast depends upon your medical condition as well. But let it not be an excuse for us to forsake this powerful habit of a successful Christian. Let us not forget what God has said through the Apostle Paul, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness” (II Corinthians 12:9).

With these in mind, I hope you will find time to fast and cultivate the powerful benefits of this amazing spiritual tool. As you form the habit of fasting, you will become a more effective Christian.

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