Principles of Fasting

[angels4u]

How to FAST Effectively

Principles of Fasting

Do you desire a deeper more intimate relationship with God? Do you want to break free from bondages and self-defeating habits that keep you from fulfilling God’s will? Are you ready to find healing and even be in a position for God to use you to heal others? Are you ready to break free from sinful addictions? Do you desire a greater awareness of the calling God has placed on your life? Are you ready to place yourself in a position to be FILLED with God’s Spirit so that you can hear clearly from him? If this is the case, then perhaps it is time for a Fast! 

Before you start your Fast, set your objectives. Determine what you are in need of. During your fast, you will be able to pray and seek God concerning these things. Do you need spiritual revival, marriage restoration, freedom from a particular sinful habit? Write these things down and pray about them while you are fasting. Ask the Holy Spirit for guidance. Remember, during fasting you want to pray specifically and strategically. 

The foundation of fasting is prayer and repentance. It is not about trying to manipulate God to do for you, it is about positioning yourself to be able to do for God. It is about humbling yourself and getting closer to him. Through this process when God acts we are better able to receive!  

"The heart of fasting is about our longing for more of God" -John Piper

It is imperative for the Body of Christ to fast. Here are some basic fasting principles: 

-Just as we know we ought to pray, the believer is also expected to fast from time to time.  Just as prayers are between you and God, let your fasts be between you and God (Matt. 6:16-18).

-Fasting helps to break the addiction to food that we develop over time from eating for taste. “If you can’t give up certain foods for the sake of God, then there is an issue”. Therefore, FAST to regain control over the body. “Man does not live for bread alone”. “Do not be mastered by anything”.

-Through fasting you will receive an empowerment (Isaiah 58:6, Matt. 17:21). 

-God talks to us in the spirit. Therefore, to hear from him efficiently, we must at times strengthen our spirit (John 4:24) (Acts. 13:2) (Daniel 9:3). 

-Fasting increases the spiritual capacity. Those who are spiritually deaf cannot hear from God.

-Fasting is not just about abstaining from physical food, but the main part of it is prayer.

-When we abstain from physical food for a certain period of time, we began to get hungry. However, as soon as we pray, we will get filled up with spiritual “food”. The beauty of this is that we are not filling up our stomach, but actually our spirit is being filled through our prayers. And as our spirit increases, so does our communication with God and his power within us.

-When one is fasting, she typically does not eat food or drink (except water) until the fast is over. However, some fasts are from sun up till sun down. Therefore, eating is permitted in the evening.

-If a person fasts and prays, she will receive an empowerment from God. He shall be “filled” with the Spirit and shall hear from the Lord. All disciples of Christ must fast, for we are delegates and ambassadors of the King. Therefore, it is essential for us to receive clear orders from him. 

Most importantly, we fast not solely for our purposes. Rather, we fast because we are required and expected too. We fast for the sake of others as well, so that we can be used by God to minister to and help them. In speaking with his disciples, Jesus never said “If you fast…”, he said “When you fast…” Thus, they were expected to fast. Moreover, Jesus mentioned that certain things can only be accomplished with prayer and fasting (Matthew 17:21).[1]

Fasting Instructions

“Even now,” declares the Lord,“return to me with ALL your heart,

with fasting and weeping and mourning” (Joel 2:12).

  Fasting is the willful abstaining from natural pleasures for a spiritual purpose.

One must be careful to truly seek God through prayer and devotion (So no time for much entertainment, or its not truly a fast). Spend the times you would have spent eating doing things to draw you closer to God (Bible Study, Watching Bible Videos, Praying, Worshipping, etc..)

  Be sure to consult your physician for advice as well if you have any serious health related issues.

Endeavor to drink at least 8 glasses (8 oz) of water each day of the fast!

Drinks allowed: Water, herbal teas, organic juices (especially cranberry), and coconut water. 

Foods allowed:  Fruits and veggies in the evening (only when doing Sunset fast or Daniel Fast).

Types of Fasts:

The type of fast you go on is between you and God. Seek him for the type of fast he is calling you to embark on.

1) Sunset Fast: With this fast, you will eat only one meal per day after sunset. This meal should consist of what Daniel was allowed to eat during his fast (Vegetables, fruit, Water, Juices, No Meats or Sweets)

Sample Evening fast meal for a Sunset fast (only eat one meal: Banana, vegetable soup, olives, fruit juice. 

2) Full-Day Fast:  Only consume water and natural fruit juices (The best juices are from fresh fruits and vegetables. Avoid any liquids containing caffeine as they can stimulate appetite and make fasting more difficult).

 Fasting is often mentioned along with mourning for a reason. As rewarding as it is, there will be times of extreme difficulty and weakness. But God is with you. 

Some are called to fast for 3, 7, 10, 14, 21 or even 40 days… Seek God and inquire about how long you should fast. He will give you peace and guidance on how long you should fast. 

After the fast:

--Fasting can place your body in such a purified state that eating meat, bread, and unhealthy foods can shock the digestive system. If you have been doing a full fast for a long period of time, it is important to get your body used to food again. Therefore, for the first two days after the fast, only eat soups, fruits, and veggies. The next day you can resume normal eating. However, now with a pure and clean temple, endeavor to eat righteously for the body of God. So eat around 4-5 small healthy meals a day and drink more water.

3) The Daniel Fast: 

“In those days I, Daniel, was mourning three full weeks. I ate no pleasant food, no meat or wine came into my mouth, nor did I anoint myself at all, till three whole weeks were fulfilled” (Daniel 10:2, 3).

The Daniel Fast (10 or 21 days)

Foods to include in your diet during the Daniel Fast: 

All fruits. These can be fresh, frozen, dried, juiced or canned. Fruits include but are not limited to apples, apricots, bananas, blackberries, blueberries, boysenberries, cantaloupe, cherries, cranberries, figs, grapefruit, grapes, guava, honeydew melon, kiwi, lemons, limes, mangoes, nectarines, oranges, papayas, peaches, pears, pineapples, plums, prunes, raisins, raspberries, strawberries, tangelos, tangerines, watermelon

All vegetables. These can be fresh, frozen, dried, juiced or canned. Vegetables include but are not limited to artichokes, asparagus, beets, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, celery, chili peppers, collard greens, corn, cucumbers, eggplant, garlic, ginger root, kale, leeks, lettuce, mushrooms, mustard greens, okra, onions, parsley, potatoes, radishes, rutabagas, scallions, spinach, sprouts, squashes, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, turnips, watercress, yams, zucchini, veggie burgers are an option if you are not allergic to soy.

All whole grains, including but not limited to whole wheat, brown rice, millet, quinoa, oats, barley, grits, whole wheat pasta, whole wheat tortillas, rice cakes and popcorn.

All nuts and seeds, including but not limited to sunflower seeds, cashews, peanuts, sesame. Also nut butters including peanut butter.

All legumes. These can be canned or dried. Legumes include but are not limited to dried beans, pinto beans, split peas, lentils, black eyed peas, kidney beans, black beans, cannellini beans, white beans.

All quality oilsincluding but not limited to olive, canola, grape seed, peanut, and sesame.

Beverages: spring water, distilled water or other pure waters.

Other: tofu, soy products, vinegar, seasonings, salt, herbs and spices.

Foods to avoid on the Daniel Fast:

All meat and animal productsincluding but not limited to beef, lamb, pork, poultry, and fish.

Breads: including but not limited to pasta, flour, baked goods

All dairy products: including but not limited to milk, cheese, cream, butter, and eggs.

All sweeteners: including but not limited to sugar, raw sugar, honey, syrups, molasses, and cane juice.

All refined and processed food products: including but not limited to artificial flavorings, food additives, chemicals, white rice, white flour, and foods that contain artificial preservatives.

All deep fried foods: including but not limited to potato chips, French fries, corn chips.

All solid fats: including shortening, margarine, lard and foods high in fat.

Beverages:  including but not limited to coffee, tea, herbal teas, carbonated beverages, energy drinks, and alcohol.

Recommended Books: The Daniel Fast by Susan Gregory; The Miracle of Fasting by Paul Bragg

May God give you grace and peace during your Fast. Pray and seek him regarding how you should fast and for how long. Set the date, prepare your mind, mark it on the calendar, and go into this with confidence and faith! You will make it in the name of Jesus! God bless You!

Aoc network.com 

[Tzephanyahu]

Shalom Angels,

What a fantastic and useful post! Thank you for taking the time to collate this information. I would say it deserves to be be pinned.

Question - Do you think a regular routine fast is good or is it better to do it only when seeking out a matter or the Father? I feel that a routine fast is good for discipline sake but may not be fruitful as the motivation is a schedule.

Love & Shalom

[angels4u]

16 minutes ago, Tzephanyahu said:

Shalom Angels,

What a fantastic and useful post! Thank you for taking the time to collate this information. I would say it deserves to be be pinned.

Question - Do you think a regular routine fast is good or is it better to do it only when seeking out a matter or the Father? I feel that a routine fast is good for discipline sake but may not be fruitful as the motivation is a schedule.

Love & Shalom

I want to go a little deeper in this study and see what the Bible says about fasting and foods and where it's all mentioned in the Bible,I didn't get to that part yet , I feel that for a Christian especially in the days we live in, it could be very beneficial to fast for family, friends, circumstances and other things, the world which is getting more evil every day ,we have to pray more for unbelievers and our countries. The most important thing is that we do it for Jesus and to listen to what He wants us to do , it doesn't always have to be food related  ,it can be our time also,  it's good to fast from anything which has a strong hold on us,it could be sugar addiction, computer, anything really ,anything we can't abstain from is a stronghold,don't you think? This would be a good time to examine ourself.

Want to study  do this with me and see what the Bible is telling us about food and fasting?

[Tzephanyahu]

6 minutes ago, angels4u said:

I want to go a little deeper in this study and see what the Bible says about fasting and foods and where it's all mentioned in the Bible,I didn't get to that part yet , I feel that for a Christian especially in the days we live in, it could be very beneficial to fast for family, friends, circumstances and other things, the world which is getting more evil every day ,we have to pray more for unbelievers and our countries. The most important thing is that we do it for Jesus and to listen to what He wants us to do , it doesn't always have to be food related  ,it can be our time also,  it's good to fast from anything which has a strong hold on us,it could be sugar addiction, computer, anything really ,anything we can't abstain from is a stronghold,don't you think? This would be a good time to examine ourself.

Want to study  do this with me and see what the Bible is telling us about food and fasting?

Shalom angels,

True indeed. What power lies behind fasting would probably shock us if we truly understood.

I would love to study this but currently I feel that the Father has laid two large topics of study in my heart already. Isaiah 28 and Leviticus 19.

However, I am working on a website for Christians (new and experienced) and non-believers. I definitely want a page on Fasting as it's a big subject.  May I contact you at that stage to collaborate?  As your research already in your opening post is a fantastic resource.

Love & Shalom

[angels4u]

What does the Bible say of foods?

Have you always wanted to prepare a biblical feast? Perhaps you would just like to learn more about the different types of food in the Bible. Hundreds of Scripture passages describe foods, drinks, and stories of feasting and eating meals.

Some of today's healthiest known foods were part of the biblical diet. These include olives, olive oil, pomegranates, grapes, goat milk, raw honey, lamb, and bitter herbs.

The Bible also contains a few accounts of people eating highly unusual and supernatural foods. This complete "grocery list" consists of spices, fruits, vegetables, seeds, grains, fish, fowl, meats and other strange foods and drinks mentioned in the Bible. They range in taste and aroma from sweet to savory to pungent. References to the passages are provided for each of the Bible foods.

Seasonings, Spices, and Herbs

Spices and herbs consumed as food in the Bible were used to flavor bread, cakes, meats, soups, stews, and were taken as digestive aids. Coriander, the seed of cilantro, is known today to be a powerful anti-oxidant with natural cleansing qualities.

Anise (Matthew 23:23 KJV)

Coriander (Exodus 16:31; Numbers 11:7)

Cinnamon (Exodus 30:23; Revelation 18:13)

Cumin (Isaiah 28:25; Matthew 23:23)

Dill (Matthew 23:23)

Garlic (Numbers 11:5)

Mint (Matthew 23:23; Luke 11:42)

Mustard (Matthew 13:31)

Rue (Luke 11:42)

Salt (Ezra 6:9; Job 6:6)

Fruits and Nuts

People of the Bible ate many of today's most nutritious "superfoods" in this grouping of fruits and nuts. Pomegranates, for example, are believed to have highly beneficial anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and anti-tumor properties.

Apples (Song of Solomon 2:5)

Almonds (Genesis 43:11; Numbers 17:8)

Dates (2 Samuel 6:19; 1 Chronicles 16:3)

Figs (Nehemiah 13:15; Jeremiah 24:1-3)

Grapes (Leviticus 19:10; Deuteronomy 23:24)

Melons (Numbers 11:5; Isaiah 1:8)

Olives (Isaiah 17:6; Micah 6:15)

Pistachio Nuts (Genesis 43:11)

Pomegranates (Numbers 20:5; Deuteronomy 8:8)

Raisins (Numbers 6:3; 2 Samuel 6:19)

Sycamore Fruit (Psalm 78:47; Amos 7:14)

Vegetables and Legumes

God provided vegetables and legumes packed with nutrients, fiber, and protein to power the people of the Bible. In Babylon, Daniel and his friends observed a diet of only vegetables (Daniel 1:12).

Beans (2 Samuel 17:28; Ezekiel 4:9)

Cucumbers (Numbers 11:5)

Gourds (2 Kings 4:39)

Leeks (Numbers 11:5)

Lentils (Genesis 25:34; 2 Samuel 17:28; Ezekiel 4:9)

Onions (Numbers 11:5)

Grains

Healthy grains were a primary staple in Bible times. Grains are some of the easiest natural foods to keep preserved for years.

Barley (Deuteronomy 8:8; Ezekiel 4:9)

Bread (Genesis 25:34; 2 Samuel 6:19; 16:1; Mark 8:14)

Corn (Matthew 12:1; KJV - refers to "grain" such as wheat or barley)

Flour (2 Samuel 17:28; 1 Kings 17:12)

Millet (Ezekiel 4:9)

Spelt (Ezekiel 4:9)

Unleavened Bread (Genesis 19:3; Exodus 12:20)

Wheat (Ezra 6:9; Deuteronomy 8:8)

Fish

Seafood was another staple in the Bible. However, only certain fish and other seafood were suitable for eating. According to Leviticus 11:9, edible seafood had to have fins and scales. Shellfish was prohibited. Today we know that fish such as Tuna, Salmon, Cod, Red Snapper, and many others are high in protein and healthy omega fats, which can help reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, and provide many other health benefits.

Matthew 15:36

John 21:11-13

Fowl

These birds were considered clean and suitable for eating in the Bible.

Partridge (1 Samuel 26:20; Jeremiah 17:11)

Pigeon (Genesis 15:9; Leviticus 12:8)

Quail (Psalm 105:40)

Dove (Leviticus 12:8)

Animal Meats

According to the book of Leviticus, clean meats are those from animals that have a cloven hoof and chew the cud. Jewish dietary laws taught God's people not to eat the blood of animals or any meat that had been sacrificed to idols.

Calf (Proverbs 15:17; Luke 15:23)

Goat (Genesis 27:9)

Lamb (2 Samuel 12:4)

Oxen (1 Kings 19:21)

Sheep (Deuteronomy 14:4)

Venison (Genesis 27:7 KJV)

Dairy

Fresh, raw products from grass-fed cows, sheep, and goats provided the dairy portion of the biblical diet.

Butter (Proverbs 30:33)

Cheese (2 Samuel 17:29; Job 10:10)

Curds (Isaiah 7:15)

Milk (Exodus 33:3; Job 10:10; Judges 5:25)

Miscellaneous Foods in the Bible

Many of these foods, such as raw honey, contain disease-fighting and energy-boosting nutrients, allergy defense builders, and probiotic support.

Eggs (Job 6:6; Luke 11:12)

Grape Juice (Numbers 6:3)

Raw Honey (Exodus 33:3; Deuteronomy 8:8; Judges 14:8-9)

Olive Oil (Ezra 6:9; Deuteronomy 8:8)

Vinegar (Ruth 2:14; John 19:29)

Wine (Ezra 6:9; John 2:1-10)

Unusual and Supernatural 'Foods' in the Bible

Fruit From the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil and the Tree of Life (Genesis 3:6, 22)

Manna (Exodus 16:31-35)

Gold Dust (Exodus 32:19-20) 

Human Flesh (Deuteronomy 28:53-57)

Miraculous Bread and Water in the Desert (Genesis 21:14-19; Numbers 20:11)

Two-Sided Scroll of Lamentations (Ezekiel 2:8 - 3:3)

Bread Baked Over Human Excrement (Ezekiel 4:10-17)

Angel Cakes (1 Kings 19:3-9)

Animal Diet of Grass (Daniel 4:33)

Bread and Meat From Ravens (1 Kings 17:1-6)

Miraculous Flour and Oil (1 Kings 17:10-16; 2 Kings 4:1-7)

Locust (Mark 1:6)

Miraculous Fish and Loaves of Bread (2 Kings 4:42-44; Matthew 14:13-21; Matthew 15:32-39; Mark 6:30-44; Mark 8:1-13; Luke 9:10-17; John 6:1-15)

https://www.thoughtco.com/foods-of-the-bible-700172

[angels4u]

Biblical Verses on Fasting

Spiritual fasting is not just about giving up food or other items, but it is about feeding the spirit through our obedience to God. Here are some scripture verses that can inspire you or help you understand the act of fasting and how it can help you grow closer to God as you pray and focus:

Exodus 34:28

Moses remained there on the mountain with the Lord forty days and forty nights. In all that time he ate no bread and drank no water. And the Lord wrote the terms of the covenant—the Ten Commandments —on the stone tablets. (NLT)

Deuteronomy 9:18

Then, as before, I threw myself down before the Lord for forty days and nights. I ate no bread and drank no water because of the great sin you had committed by doing what the Lord hated, provoking him to anger. (NLT)

2 Samuel 12:16-17

David begged God to spare the child. He went without food and lay all night on the bare ground. 17 The elders of his household pleaded with him to get up and eat with them, but he refused. (NLT)

Nehemiah 1:4

When I heard this, I sat down and wept. In fact, for days I mourned, fasted, and prayed to the God of heaven. (NLT)

Ezra 8:21-23

And there by the Ahava Canal, I gave orders for all of us to fast and humble ourselves before our God. We prayed that he would give us a safe journey and protect us, our children, and our goods as we traveled. For I was ashamed to ask the king for soldiers and horsemen to accompany us and protect us from enemies along the way. After all, we had told the king, “Our God’s hand of protection is on all who worship him, but his fierce anger rages against those who abandon him.” So we fasted and earnestly prayed that our God would take care of us, and he heard our prayer. (NLT)

Ezra 10:6

Then Ezra left the front of the Temple of God and went to the room of Jehohanan son of Eliashib. He spent the night there without eating or drinking anything. He was still in mourning because of the unfaithfulness of the returned exiles. (NLT)

Esther 4:16

Go and gather together all the Jews of Susa and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. My maids and I will do the same. And then, though it is against the law, I will go in to see the king. If I must die, I must die. (NLT)

Psalms 35:13

Yet when they were ill, I grieved for them. I denied myself by fasting for them, but my prayers returned unanswered. (NLT)

Psalms 69:10

When I weep and fast, they scoff at me. (NLT)

Isaiah 58:6

No, this is the kind of fasting I want: Free those who are wrongly imprisoned; lighten the burden of those who work for you. Let the oppressed go free, and remove the chains that bind people. (NLT)

Daniel 9:3

So I turned to the Lord God and pleaded with him in prayer and fasting. I also wore rough burlap and sprinkled myself with ashes. (NLT)

Daniel 10:3

All that time I had eaten no rich food. No meat or wine crossed my lips, and I used no fragrant lotions until those three weeks had passed. (NLT)

Joel 2:15

Blow the ram’s horn in Jerusalem! Announce a time of fasting; call the people together for a solemn meeting. (NLT)

Matthew 4:2

For forty days and forty nights he fasted and became very hungry. (NLT)

Matthew 6:16

And when you fast, don’t make it obvious, as the hypocrites do, for they try to look miserable and disheveled so people will admire them for their fasting. I tell you the truth, that is the only reward they will ever get. (NLT)

Matthew 9:15

Jesus replied, “Do wedding guests mourn while celebrating with the groom? Of course not. But someday the groom will be taken away from them, and then they will fast. (NLT)

Luke 2:37

Then she lived as a widow to the age of eighty-four. She never left the Temple but stayed there day and night, worshiping God with fasting and prayer. (NLT)

Acts 13:3

So after more fasting and prayer, the men laid their hands on them and sent them on their way. (NLT)

Acts 14:23

Paul and Barnabas also appointed elders in every church. With prayer and fasting, they turned the elders over to the care of the Lord, in whom they had put their trust. (NLT)

 https://www.thoughtco.com/biblical-verses-on-fasting-712413

[angels4u]

Prayer And Fasting

Prayer and Fasting - A Definition
Prayer and fasting is defined as voluntarily going without food in order to focus on prayer and fellowship with God. Prayer and fasting often go hand in hand, but this is not always the case. You can pray without fasting, and fast without prayer. It is when these two activities are combined and dedicated to God's glory that they reach their full effectiveness. Having a dedicated time of prayer and fasting is not a way of manipulating God into doing what you desire. Rather, it is simply forcing yourself to focus and rely on God for the strength, provision, and wisdom you need.

Prayer and Fasting - What the Bible Says
The Old Testament law specifically required prayer and fasting for only one occasion, which was the Day of Atonement. This custom became known as "the day of fasting" (Jeremiah 36:6) or "the Fast" (Acts 27:9). Moses fasted during the 40 days and 40 nights he was on Mount Sinai receiving the law from God (Exodus 34:28). King Jehoshaphat called for a fast in all Israel when they were about to be attacked by the Moabites and Ammonites (2 Chronicles 20:3). In response to Jonah's preaching, the men of Nineveh fasted and put on sackcloth (Jonah 3:5). Prayer and fasting was often done in times of distress or trouble. David fasted when he learned that Saul and Jonathan had been killed (2 Samuel 1:12). Nehemiah had a time of prayer and fasting upon learning that Jerusalem was still in ruins (Nehemiah 1:4). Darius, the king of Persia, fasted all night after he was forced to put Daniel in the den of lions (Daniel 6:18). 

Prayer and fasting also occurs in the New Testament. Anna "worshipped night and day, fasting and praying" at the Temple (Luke 2:37). John the Baptist taught his disciples to fast (Mark 2:18). Jesus fasted for 40 days and 40 nights before His temptation by Satan (Matthew 4:2). The church of Antioch fasted (Acts 13:2) and sent Paul and Barnabas off on their first missionary journey (Acts 13:3). Paul and Barnabas spent time in prayer and fasting for the appointment of elders in the churches (Acts 14:23).

Prayer and Fasting - Required or Recommended?
The Word of God does not specifically command believers to spend time in prayer and fasting. At the same time, prayer and fasting is definitely something we should be doing. Far too often, though, the focus of prayer and fasting is on abstaining from food. Instead, the purpose of Christian fasting should be to take our eyes off the things of this world and focus our thoughts on God. Fasting should always be limited to a set time because not eating for extended periods can be damaging to the body. Fasting is not a method of punishing our bodies and it is not be used as a "dieting method" either. We are not to spend time in prayer and fasting in order to lose weight, but rather to gain a deeper fellowship with God. 

By taking our eyes off the things of this world through prayer and biblical fasting, we can focus better on Christ. 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."

Prayer and Fasting - What Does it Accomplish?
Spending time in prayer and fasting is not automatically effective in accomplishing the desires of those who fast. Fasting or no fasting, God only promises to answer our prayers when we ask according to His will. 1 John 5:14-15 tells us, "This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us - whatever we ask - we know that we have what we asked of him." In the prophet Isaiah's time, the people grumbled that they had fasted, yet God did not answer in the way they wanted (Isaiah 58:3-4). Isaiah responded by proclaiming that the external show of fasting and prayer, without the proper heart attitude, was futile (Isaiah 58:5-9). 

How can you know if you are praying and fasting according to God's will? Are you praying and fasting for things that honor and glorify God? Does the Bible clearly reveal that it is God's will for you? If we are asking for something that is not honoring to God or not God's will for our lives, God will not give what we ask for, whether we fast or not. How can we know God's will? God promises to give us wisdom when we ask. James 1:5 tells us, "If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him."https://www.allaboutprayer.org/prayer-and-fasting.htm

 

[ForHisGlory37]

On 2/9/2019 at 3:43 PM, angels4u said:

How to FAST Effectively

Principles of Fasting

Do you desire a deeper more intimate relationship with God? Do you want to break free from bondages and self-defeating habits that keep you from fulfilling God’s will? Are you ready to find healing and even be in a position for God to use you to heal others? Are you ready to break free from sinful addictions? Do you desire a greater awareness of the calling God has placed on your life? Are you ready to place yourself in a position to be FILLED with God’s Spirit so that you can hear clearly from him? If this is the case, then perhaps it is time for a Fast! 

Before you start your Fast, set your objectives. Determine what you are in need of. During your fast, you will be able to pray and seek God concerning these things. Do you need spiritual revival, marriage restoration, freedom from a particular sinful habit? Write these things down and pray about them while you are fasting. Ask the Holy Spirit for guidance. Remember, during fasting you want to pray specifically and strategically. 

The foundation of fasting is prayer and repentance. It is not about trying to manipulate God to do for you, it is about positioning yourself to be able to do for God. It is about humbling yourself and getting closer to him. Through this process when God acts we are better able to receive!  

"The heart of fasting is about our longing for more of God" -John Piper

It is imperative for the Body of Christ to fast. Here are some basic fasting principles: 

-Just as we know we ought to pray, the believer is also expected to fast from time to time.  Just as prayers are between you and God, let your fasts be between you and God (Matt. 6:16-18).

-Fasting helps to break the addiction to food that we develop over time from eating for taste. “If you can’t give up certain foods for the sake of God, then there is an issue”. Therefore, FAST to regain control over the body. “Man does not live for bread alone”. “Do not be mastered by anything”.

-Through fasting you will receive an empowerment (Isaiah 58:6, Matt. 17:21). 

-God talks to us in the spirit. Therefore, to hear from him efficiently, we must at times strengthen our spirit (John 4:24) (Acts. 13:2) (Daniel 9:3). 

-Fasting increases the spiritual capacity. Those who are spiritually deaf cannot hear from God.

-Fasting is not just about abstaining from physical food, but the main part of it is prayer.

-When we abstain from physical food for a certain period of time, we began to get hungry. However, as soon as we pray, we will get filled up with spiritual “food”. The beauty of this is that we are not filling up our stomach, but actually our spirit is being filled through our prayers. And as our spirit increases, so does our communication with God and his power within us.

-When one is fasting, she typically does not eat food or drink (except water) until the fast is over. However, some fasts are from sun up till sun down. Therefore, eating is permitted in the evening.

-If a person fasts and prays, she will receive an empowerment from God. He shall be “filled” with the Spirit and shall hear from the Lord. All disciples of Christ must fast, for we are delegates and ambassadors of the King. Therefore, it is essential for us to receive clear orders from him. 

Most importantly, we fast not solely for our purposes. Rather, we fast because we are required and expected too. We fast for the sake of others as well, so that we can be used by God to minister to and help them. In speaking with his disciples, Jesus never said “If you fast…”, he said “When you fast…” Thus, they were expected to fast. Moreover, Jesus mentioned that certain things can only be accomplished with prayer and fasting (Matthew 17:21).[1]

Fasting Instructions

“Even now,” declares the Lord,“return to me with ALL your heart,

with fasting and weeping and mourning” (Joel 2:12).

  Fasting is the willful abstaining from natural pleasures for a spiritual purpose.

One must be careful to truly seek God through prayer and devotion (So no time for much entertainment, or its not truly a fast). Spend the times you would have spent eating doing things to draw you closer to God (Bible Study, Watching Bible Videos, Praying, Worshipping, etc..)

  Be sure to consult your physician for advice as well if you have any serious health related issues.

Endeavor to drink at least 8 glasses (8 oz) of water each day of the fast!

Drinks allowed: Water, herbal teas, organic juices (especially cranberry), and coconut water. 

Foods allowed:  Fruits and veggies in the evening (only when doing Sunset fast or Daniel Fast).

Types of Fasts:

The type of fast you go on is between you and God. Seek him for the type of fast he is calling you to embark on.

1) Sunset Fast: With this fast, you will eat only one meal per day after sunset. This meal should consist of what Daniel was allowed to eat during his fast (Vegetables, fruit, Water, Juices, No Meats or Sweets)

Sample Evening fast meal for a Sunset fast (only eat one meal: Banana, vegetable soup, olives, fruit juice. 

2) Full-Day Fast:  Only consume water and natural fruit juices (The best juices are from fresh fruits and vegetables. Avoid any liquids containing caffeine as they can stimulate appetite and make fasting more difficult).

 Fasting is often mentioned along with mourning for a reason. As rewarding as it is, there will be times of extreme difficulty and weakness. But God is with you. 

Some are called to fast for 3, 7, 10, 14, 21 or even 40 days… Seek God and inquire about how long you should fast. He will give you peace and guidance on how long you should fast. 

After the fast:

--Fasting can place your body in such a purified state that eating meat, bread, and unhealthy foods can shock the digestive system. If you have been doing a full fast for a long period of time, it is important to get your body used to food again. Therefore, for the first two days after the fast, only eat soups, fruits, and veggies. The next day you can resume normal eating. However, now with a pure and clean temple, endeavor to eat righteously for the body of God. So eat around 4-5 small healthy meals a day and drink more water.

3) The Daniel Fast: 

“In those days I, Daniel, was mourning three full weeks. I ate no pleasant food, no meat or wine came into my mouth, nor did I anoint myself at all, till three whole weeks were fulfilled” (Daniel 10:2, 3).

The Daniel Fast (10 or 21 days)

Foods to include in your diet during the Daniel Fast: 

All fruits. These can be fresh, frozen, dried, juiced or canned. Fruits include but are not limited to apples, apricots, bananas, blackberries, blueberries, boysenberries, cantaloupe, cherries, cranberries, figs, grapefruit, grapes, guava, honeydew melon, kiwi, lemons, limes, mangoes, nectarines, oranges, papayas, peaches, pears, pineapples, plums, prunes, raisins, raspberries, strawberries, tangelos, tangerines, watermelon

All vegetables. These can be fresh, frozen, dried, juiced or canned. Vegetables include but are not limited to artichokes, asparagus, beets, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, celery, chili peppers, collard greens, corn, cucumbers, eggplant, garlic, ginger root, kale, leeks, lettuce, mushrooms, mustard greens, okra, onions, parsley, potatoes, radishes, rutabagas, scallions, spinach, sprouts, squashes, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, turnips, watercress, yams, zucchini, veggie burgers are an option if you are not allergic to soy.

All whole grains, including but not limited to whole wheat, brown rice, millet, quinoa, oats, barley, grits, whole wheat pasta, whole wheat tortillas, rice cakes and popcorn.

All nuts and seeds, including but not limited to sunflower seeds, cashews, peanuts, sesame. Also nut butters including peanut butter.

All legumes. These can be canned or dried. Legumes include but are not limited to dried beans, pinto beans, split peas, lentils, black eyed peas, kidney beans, black beans, cannellini beans, white beans.

All quality oilsincluding but not limited to olive, canola, grape seed, peanut, and sesame.

Beverages: spring water, distilled water or other pure waters.

Other: tofu, soy products, vinegar, seasonings, salt, herbs and spices.

Foods to avoid on the Daniel Fast:

All meat and animal productsincluding but not limited to beef, lamb, pork, poultry, and fish.

Breads: including but not limited to pasta, flour, baked goods

All dairy products: including but not limited to milk, cheese, cream, butter, and eggs.

All sweeteners: including but not limited to sugar, raw sugar, honey, syrups, molasses, and cane juice.

All refined and processed food products: including but not limited to artificial flavorings, food additives, chemicals, white rice, white flour, and foods that contain artificial preservatives.

All deep fried foods: including but not limited to potato chips, French fries, corn chips.

All solid fats: including shortening, margarine, lard and foods high in fat.

Beverages:  including but not limited to coffee, tea, herbal teas, carbonated beverages, energy drinks, and alcohol.

Recommended Books: The Daniel Fast by Susan Gregory; The Miracle of Fasting by Paul Bragg

May God give you grace and peace during your Fast. Pray and seek him regarding how you should fast and for how long. Set the date, prepare your mind, mark it on the calendar, and go into this with confidence and faith! You will make it in the name of Jesus! God bless You!

Aoc network.com 

Thank you sister for this post!  I hope you don't mind but I am going to copy and paste it and then make a real copy to have in my hands!  :D

blessings!

[missmuffet]

Scripture does not command the Christian to fast. Fasting is not a way to get God to do what you want. It is a personal preference. 

[angels4u]

9 hours ago, missmuffet said:

Scripture does not command the Christian to fast. Fasting is not a way to get God to do what you want. It is a personal preference. 

I very much agree with you Miss, nobody said to try to manipulate God?

At the same time, it's a Biblical principle:)

It's not for everybody and you don't have to fast if you don't want to do this.