Christains What does it mean to FAST?

Question

When do you do it? And which scriptures in the bible talks about fasting?

I always wanted to know what it was, I know people stop eating, but why do they? And what does it accomplish?

Answer 1

Scripture does not command Christians to fast. It is not something that God requires or demands of Christians. At the same time, the Bible presents fasting as something that is good, profitable, and expected. The Book of Acts records believers fasting before they made important decisions (Acts 13:4; 14:23). Fasting and prayer are often linked together (Luke 2:37; 5:33). Too often, the focus of fasting is on the lack of food. Instead, the purpose of fasting should be to take your eyes off the things of this world, and instead focus on God. Fasting is a way to demonstrate to God, and to yourself, that you are serious about your relationship with Him. Fasting helps you to gain a new perspective and a renewed reliance upon God.

Although fasting in Scripture is almost always a fasting from food, there are other ways to fast. Anything you can temporarily give up in order to better focus on God can be considered a fast (1 Corinthians 7:1-5). Fasting should be limited to a set time, especially when the fasting is from food. Extended periods of time without eating are harmful to the body. Fasting is not intended to punish your flesh, but to focus on God. Fasting should not be considered a “dieting method” either. Do not fast to lose weight, but rather to gain deeper fellowship with God. Yes, anyone can fast. Some may not be able to fast from food (diabetics for example), but everyone can temporarily give up something in order to focus on God.

By taking our eyes off the things of this world, we can focus better on Christ. Fasting is not a way to get God to do what we want. Fasting is a means through which God changes us. Fasting is not a way to appear more spiritual than others. Fasting is to be done in a spirit of humility and a joyful attitude. Matthew 6:16-18 declares, “When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to men that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”

Born Again Christian  

Answer 2

Fasting is going extended periods of time without eating and drinking (except for water.)  It purifies you (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?sea... .)

Answer 3

Fasting is taking time away from things like eating, to seek Jesus more strongly.  It can be a partial day fast, or a whole day fast, whatever the Lord leads you to do.  You use the time for prayer and worship.

Sometimes someone will choose to fast to address a specific issue in their life or the life or someone else.  You would typically avoid food during the time of the fast.

Answer 4

going without food and water for 24 hrs...ive done it many times and it didnt help me..

Answer 5

Matthew 9:14 - Then John's disciples came and asked him, "How is it that we and the Pharisees fast, but your disciples do not fast?"

Expressing grief by fasting would have been inappropriate at that time. In addition, It's used to draw closer to God. Since Jesus was with them, they had no need to draw closer to Him through fasting. After Christ died, the disciples fasted when appropriate.

Just My Thoughts!