We recommend you consult your physician prior to beginning any type of fast. If you are poor in health or have concerns about your physical ability to fast, we especially urge you to consult a physician before beginning your fast. There are different types of fasts recommended on the following pages. Your doctor can provide advice on how you can participate on this fast in a way that is healthy for you.

HOW TO BEGIN

Start with a clear goal. Be specific. Why are you fasting? Do you need direction, healing, restoration of marriage or family issues? Are you facing financial difficulties? Ask the Holy Spirit for guidance. Pray daily and read the Bible.

PREPARING SPIRITUALLY

Confess your sins to God. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal areas of weakness. Forgive all who have offended you and ask forgiveness from those you may have offended (Mark 11:25; Luke 11:4; 17:3-4). Surrender your life fully to Jesus Christ and reject the worldly desires that try to hinder you (Romans 12:1-2).

DECIDING WHAT TO FAST

The type of fasting you choose is up to you. You could go on a complete fast, in which you only drink liquids, or you may desire to fast like Daniel, who abstained from sweets and meats, and the only liquid he drank was water. Remember to replace that time with prayer and Bible study.

WHAT TO EXPECT

When you fast, your body detoxifies, eliminating toxins from your system. This can cause mild discomfort, such as headaches and irritability, during withdrawal from caffeine and sugars. Naturally, you will have hunger pains. Limit your activity and exercise moderately. Take time to rest. Fasting brings about miraculous results. You are following Jesus’ example when you fast. Spend time listening to praise and worship. Pray as often as you are able throughout the day. Get away from the normal distractions as much as possible, and keep your heart and mind set on seeking God’s face.

HOW TO FINISH

Don’t overeat when the time comes to end your fast. Begin eating solid food gradually; eat small portions or snacks.

Are you in need of healing or a miracle? 

Do you need the tender touch of God in your life? 

Is there a dream inside you that only He can make possible? 

Are you in need of a fresh encounter? 

Do you desire a deeper, more intimate and powerful relationship with the Lord? 

Are you ready to have heightened sensitivity to the desires of God? 

Do you need to break away from bondages that have been holding you hostage? 

Is there a friend or loved one that needs Salvation? 

Do you desire to know God’s will for your life? 

We encourage you to seek the Lord in prayer and let your decisions about your biblical fasting come from Him. Ask the Lord to show you areas to target during your time of fasting and prayer. We believe, that as we pray, seek God and give Him our best at the beginning of the year, He will bless our entire year! (Matthew 6:33)

According to the Bible, there are three duties of every Christian: give, pray and fast.

Biblical fasting takes a great deal of discipline and strength — strength which you can only receive from God. Matthew 6 tells us that our private discipline will bring us rewards in heaven.

When you give God your first through fasting, prayer and giving at the beginning of the year, you set the course for the entire year. 

SCRIPTURE REFERENCES FOR FASTING:

• Matthew 6:16-18
• Luke 18:9-14
• Matthew 9:14-15

RELATION TO PRAYER AND READING OF THE WORD:

• 1 Samuel 1:6-8, 17-18
• Nehemiah 1:4
• Daniel 9:3, 20
• Joel 2:12
• Luke 2:37
• Acts 10:30; 13:2

CORPORATE FASTING:

• 1 Samuel 7:5-6
• Ezra 8:21-23
• Nehemiah 9:1-3
• Joel 2:15-16
• Jonah 3:5-10
• Acts 27:33-37

Remember, that it is the attitude of a heart sincerely seeking Him, to which God responds with a blessing. (Isaiah 58, Jeremiah 14:12, 1 Corinthians 8:8)

There are several types of fasting. The one you choose is between you and God. He will honor your best sacrifice.