Fasting is not a logical or natural thing to do. Breathing, eating and talking are natural, but somehow, not eating – like praying – feels strange when first practiced.
Even though there is no “right way” to do it, getting caught up in the form rather than the function, is a danger. It's the reason for fasting that is important, not the method.
The Beginner’s Basics for Fasting
For many people, skipping one or two meals is a good way to start fasting. To avoid the distractions of hunger pangs and headaches, many veterans recommend a “juice fast” rather than a full fast. That means that clear liquids – such as apple juice, tea or even chicken broth – may be taken during the fasting time. Also, it is important to drink lots of water to prevent dehydration when fasting.
According to Tilden H. Edwards, in his book Living Simply Through the Day, (Ramsey, NJ: Paulist Press, 1977), such accommodations are not as important as the attitude of the heart. Especially when first learning the ins and outs of fasting, these precautions may help avoid the pitfalls of legalism and the sense that fasting is something special.
When embarking on a full-day (or more) of fasting, it may be easier to start in the morning, saving the end of the fast for sleeping hours. Remember that food is what fuels the body so extremely strenuous activities may be more difficult than usual. It is best to get sufficient rest so that the body does not have to cope with additional stressors.
Hunger pangs and a growling stomach offer the believer a chance to remember the reason for fasting. Rather than ignore the physical consequences of not eating, it may be helpful to use the discomfort as a reminder of the pain and suffering that others have endured for the name of Christ.
Fasting should not be a source of pride. One reason it is done is to engender humility. It is sometimes necessary to spend time correcting your attitude before fasting can be beneficial in other ways.
Who Should Not Fast
Fasting is not for everyone. For some it is unwise!
- Babies and young children
- Anyone with health issues related to regular nourishment (like diabetes)
- Anyone who is unable to understand the purpose of fasting
- People who are doing it just because everyone else is
Fear, unfamiliarity, lack of knowledge – there are many reasons why Christians today do not practice fasting. The fact that churches are often silent on the matter is not helpful to many who are considering fasting even though they agree that the power described in Acts and demonstrated by many believers in the early church is rarely seen today.
Related Reading on Fasting
To learn more about fasting, see What Every Christian Should Know about Fasting and Examples of Spiritual Fasting.
Mistie Shaw - Writing for nearly half a century, Shaw's interests and education meander from music to the military, and from faith to fun.
Join the Conversation