Feasting and Fasting

Last week I wrote about our new fellowship hall.  I spoke of how the Bible speaks of festivals and feasts, and how the day is coming when all believers will be gathered for the greatest banquet ever. The fact is that we love to eat.

            But let me call you attention this week to a different idea entirely.  It is the idea of fasting.  I will just admit that I am much more familiar with the thought of feasting than fasting, and I am not alone. Several years ago, my mom and dad were visiting with us, and I preached on the topic of fasting. My dad told me that he thought that was the first sermon he had ever heard on the topic.  I think it was the first time I had ever preached on it. 

            But fasting is a biblical concept. Once Jesus was teaching on prayer and fasting, and the need not to make a show of either one. Still, He said to those listening to Him, “When you fast…” He took for granted that His followers would continue this practice.

            Fasting may be an unfamiliar concept for you. What does it mean? Why would you do it?  What does it accomplish?

            Let me make a couple of observations. First, there may be some with medical conditions that would preclude you from fasting for any long period of time.  Fasting simply means that you do not consume food for a set time frame.  It can be short or long.  Most people who fast do so for a couple of reasons.  They are seeking answers and directions for something in their lives. Or, they simply want to experience God in a closer manner. Fasting can help you in both of these areas. 

            More than once I have fasted for a day or two as I have sought the Lord’s will and direction in my life. And more than once, in the midst of this, He has answered my prayer. Somehow, as I have refrained from eating, and prayed during my normal mealtimes, God has spoken in a powerful way to me. 

            If you have never fasted, I would commend the practice to you. If your health will not allow it, then fast from TV or the internet for a few days. Pray during the time you normally engage in those activities.

            We need to hear from the Lord. Fasting may be one way that you can do just that.