To fast means to give up something for a time (like food, video games, dessert, etc.). Many Christians fast during Lent (the 40 days where we remember how Jesus fasted in the desert), but you can fast whenever you want for as long as you want. Biblical fasting is not about losing weight or looking “holy” to your friends. And it’s not something that you can do to “get out of” doing what’s right. Fasting is a way to reconnect with God and reset our priorities!
These days, many people talk about fasting as a good way to lose weight, but that was never why people fasted in the Bible. Biblical fasting is almost always paired with prayer. It’s meant to help us humble ourselves and recognize that there’s nothing that we need more than Jesus. The Bible warns us to never fast as a way of impressing people. So, when you fast, don’t make a big deal of it to others. It’s meant to be between you and God. However, as kids, it’s very important that we talk to our parents any time we’d like to fast, especially if we plan on fasting from food. Fasting is a great way to connect with God, but it’s important that we do it in a safe way! It’s also important that we recognize that fasting is not a substitute for living God’s way. That is, if you have issues between you and God, deal with those issues before you fast, don’t fast instead of dealing with those issues.
Fasting Bible Verses:
- Matthew 4:4 | Man does not live by bread alone.
- Ephesians 1:7 | We need God more than anything.
- Luke 4:2 | Jesus fasted.
- Joel 1:14 | Old Testament Jews fasted.
- Acts 13:2-3 | New Testament believers fasted.
- Matthew 6:16-18 | Don’t use fasting to look cool, but focus on God.
Fasting Family Time Questions:
• What is fasting?
• What are some things you can fast from?
• Who should you always talk to before you decide to fast from something?
Prayer:
Dear God, thank you for your goodness to me. Please help me to stay connected with you and to do what I can to keep my priorities straight. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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