What Does Fasting Add to Prayer?
Bible Readings
- Matthew 6:16 - Moreover when ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance: for they disfigure their faces, that they may appear unto men to fast. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.
- Matthew 6:17 - But thou, when thou fastest, anoint thine head, and wash thy face;
- Matthew 6:18 - That thou appear not unto men to fast, but unto thy Father which is in secret: and thy Father, which seeth in secret, shall reward thee openly.
- Matthew 6:19 - Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:
- Matthew 6:20 - But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:
- Matthew 6:21 - For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
- Romans 12:2 - And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
Fasting, combined with prayer, can be a beneficial spiritual practice when we seek God's guidance and trust in His protection.
Matthew 6:16–21
Jesus' words about fasting invite us into a deeper relationship with God. Fasting does not cause God to love or accept us more — because we are already fully accepted in Christ. However, fasting and prayer together can help us in the following areas:
• Renewed Spiritual Focus and Mindset
Sometimes our sensitivity to God's voice diminishes due to distractions and daily worries. This does not change our salvation, but it can affect clarity and joy in our communion with God. Fasting allows us to consciously direct our attention to God, enabling Him to renew our minds through His Word. 📖 (Romans 12:2)
• Guidance
God desires to guide His children. Prayer and fasting together help us: • to listen more carefully to what God says, • to accept His guidance with faith. We do this not to earn God's approval, but to be more open to His voice.
• Protection and Wisdom
Fasting expresses our dependence on God. The Holy Spirit helps us: • to discern unhealthy and dangerous choices, • to make wise decisions, • to avoid unnecessary risks.
Conclusion
Fasting and prayer: • do not forgive sins, • do not bring salvation, • do not increase God's love for us.
But they can serve: • a closer communion with God, • spiritual alertness, • and a deeper relationship with the Lord.
🤔 Reflection
What areas of your life would you like fasting and prayer to positively impact?
Photo by Photo by Tanya Barrow on Unsplash