Fasting is a spiritual discipline where believers intentionally abstain from certain foods, drinks, or activities to focus on God, seek His guidance, and deepen their relationship with Him. During Pursuit Week at Celebration Church, we will pray and worship together at the start of the year, uniting as we rise to God’s higher calling through fasting.

It’s important to note that fasting should be approached with wisdom and care. If you have health concerns, consult a physician before participating in any form of fasting.

Fasting has a strong foundation in Scripture, where it is practiced as an act of worship and dependence on God:

• Jesus on Fasting: Jesus taught His disciples about the right attitude toward fasting, emphasizing sincerity and devotion to God. He said, “Now whenever you fast, do not make a gloomy face as the hypocrites do, for they distort their faces so that they will be noticed by people when they are fasting… But as for you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that your fasting will not be noticed by people, but by your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees what is done in secret will reward you.” (Matthew 6:16-18, NASB)
• Daniel’s Fast: The prophet Daniel practiced a partial fast, abstaining from rich foods and seeking God’s guidance in prayer. “I did not eat any tasty food, nor did meat or wine enter my mouth, nor did I use any ointment at all, until the entire three weeks were completed.” (Daniel 10:3, NASB) 
• Spiritual Breakthroughs: Fasting is often paired with prayer for significant spiritual breakthroughs, as seen in the early church. “While they were serving the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Set Barnabas and Saul apart for Me for the work to which I have called them.’” (Acts 13:2, NASB)

There are different ways to fast, allowing for personal choice and physical considerations:

1. Complete Fast: Abstaining from all food and consuming only liquids, such as water or juice. This type of fast requires careful planning and is best done for a short duration.

2. Partial Fast (Daniel Fast): Avoiding specific foods, such as meat, sweets, and bread, while eating fruits, vegetables, and water. This is modeled after Daniel’s example (Daniel 10:3, NASB).

3. Intermittent Fast: Limiting food intake to specific times of the day, such as fasting from sunrise to sunset.

4. Soul Fast: Abstaining from non-food distractions, like social media, television, or other activities, to focus on God. This is a good option for those who cannot fast from food due to health reasons.

Fasting is more than simply going without food. It’s a way to humble ourselves before God, seek His will, and experience spiritual renewal. Through fasting, we can:

• Align our hearts with God’s purposes.
• Hear His voice more clearly.
• Cultivate discipline and reliance on the Holy Spirit.
• Deepen our faith and strengthen our spiritual walk.

Isaiah 58:6 reminds us of God’s heart for fasting: “Is this not the fast that I choose: To release the bonds of wickedness, to undo the ropes of the yoke, and to let the oppressed go free, and break every yoke?” (Isaiah 58:6, NASB).

1. Pray Before You Begin: Ask God to guide your fast and reveal areas where He wants to work in your life.

2. Start Small: If you’re new to fasting, begin with a partial fast or a shorter duration.

3. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially during complete or partial fasts.

4. Pair Fasting with Prayer: Use the time you would normally spend eating or on distractions to pray, worship, and read Scripture.

5. Consult Your Doctor: If you have medical conditions or concerns, seek advice from a healthcare professional before fasting.