Dear Christian Mentor, Can you explain fasting to me?
Seeking God with Greater Intentionality
"And when you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrite, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, that your fasting may be seen by others, but by your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.” ~ Matthew 6:16-18
Dear Christian Mentor,
As we enter into Lent, my pastor encouraged us to fast during this season. Can you please explain to me what it means to fast and why it is something we should do as Christians?
Dear Mentee,
Fasting is a voluntary choice to abstain from food—or another meaningful activity—for a set period in order to seek God more intentionally through prayer, worship, forgiveness, and discernment.
While fasting can feel stretching, it often becomes a doorway to deeper intimacy with the Lord. Throughout Scripture, fasting is connected to humility, repentance, and renewed dependence on God (Joel 2:12; Matthew 6:16–18).
Fasting redirects our focus from physical appetites to spiritual hunger. It tangibly reminds us that our strength, provision, and direction come from God—not from ourselves.
A time of fast carves out intentional space for reflection. It invites us to consider who God is, how He has been faithful, and where He may be leading us next. When we fast, we replace what we are abstaining from with prayer. For example, if you are fasting from television, you might use that time to sit with the Lord in prayer, engage with Scripture, or rest in quiet reflection.
Fasting also opens space for confession and surrender. As we quiet distractions, the Holy Spirit may reveal areas of sin, misplaced reliance, or wounds needing healing. This is not condemnation—it is loving refinement.
Praise and gratitude are often a result of fasting. By abstaining from something, we often gain a clearer perspective on how abundantly God has already provided for us.
There are several approaches to fasting. Each should be practiced wisely and in alignment with your health and circumstances:
Total Fast – No food and no water (short duration only).
Water-Only Fast – Abstaining from food while drinking water.
Partial Food Fast – Abstaining from one meal per day or limiting certain foods.
Habit Fast – Fasting from social media, caffeine, sweets, television, or other daily comforts.
In Acts 13:2–3, believers fasted and prayed as they sought God’s direction. Fasting has long been a means of aligning the heart with His will.
Today’s Promise:
As you fast with a sincere heart, you will draw nearer to the Lord and grow in spiritual alignment with Him.
Application:
Prayerfully consider which form of fasting would be wise and sustainable for you. Over the next few days, prepare your heart and set aside time to focus on the Lord. Ask Him to reveal what He desires to refine, restore, or strengthen in you.
~ Christian Mentor
