What is the Christian fasting? Biblically, fasting is abstaining from food, drink, sleep and sex to focus on spiritual growth period. Specifically, we humbly deny something of the flesh to glorify God, enhance our spirit, and deepen our prayer life.
Christian fasting is not some kind of "work" is commanded by Christ or required by Scripture. However, this does not mean that fasting is not recommended as part of our spiritual growth. The book of Acts records believers fasting before making important decisions (Acts 13: 4; 2:23 p.m.). Fasting and prayer are often linked together (Luke 2:37; 5:33). Too often, the focus of fasting is the lack of food. However, the purpose of fasting is to take our eyes the things of this world and instead focus on God. Fasting is a way of showing God and ourselves that we are serious about our relationship with Him.
Although fasting in Scripture is almost always a fasting from food, there are other ways to fast. All you can give a temporary basis to focus more on God can be considered a fast (1 Corinthians 7: 1-5). Fasting should be limited to a set time, especially when food is fast. Prolonged periods of time without eating are harmful to the body. Fasting is not intended to punish our flesh, but to focus on God.
Fasting should not be considered a "dieting method" either. We should not fast to lose weight, but to gain deeper fellowship with God. Yes, anyone can fast. Some may not be able to fast food (diabetics, for example), but everyone can temporarily give up something in order to focus on God. Even unplugging the television for a period of time can be an effective fast.
Yes, it is a good idea for believers fast from time to time. Fasting is not required in Scripture, but is highly recommended. The primary Biblical reason to fast is to develop a closer walk with God. By taking our eyes the things of this world, we can focus better on Christ. "When you fast, do not take gloomy like the hypocrites. For they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting, I tell you the truth, they have received their reward But when you fast, anoint your head and wash. Your face to not be obvious to men to fast, but to thy Father which is in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you "(Matthew 6:16 -18).
Christian fasting - A lifestyle life Servant
Christian fasting is more than denying us food or whatever meat - is a lifestyle sacrifice to God. In Isaiah 58; We learn what a "true fast" is. It is not just a one-time act of humility and denial before God, it is a lifestyle of ministry in the service of others. As Isaiah says, fasting encourages humility, loosens the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, frees the oppressed, feeds the hungry, gives to the poor and clothing the naked. The concept of fasting is not something overnight - it is a servant lifestyle living for God and others.
"Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, your healing shall spring forth speedily: and thy righteousness shall go before thee, and the glory of the Lord will be your rear guard Then shalt thou call, and the Lord will answer; This should cry and they will say: . "Here I am" (Isaiah 58: 8-9).
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