January practice
Fasting
Christian fasting is not a diet. It is a way of hungering for God. Purpose first. Hunger is the reminder, not the point.
If food has been a place of disorder or harm for you, do not force a food fast. Fast from another legitimate good (screens, news, a hobby) and use that space for prayer.
Beginner path
- Start small Skip one meal. Do that for a few weeks before trying two meals or a full day. Do not jump from zero to a heroic fast.
- Plan prayer instead of eating Decide ahead what you will do in the mealtime. Read Scripture. Pray for a specific need. Walk and talk with God. Without a plan, fasting is just going hungry.
- Name a spiritual purpose Why are you fasting? Hunger for God, repentance, clarity, intercession for someone, freedom from a habit. Write the purpose down.
- Consider others Think about family meals, work, and health. Be wise. Drink water. If you have medical concerns, talk with a doctor before fasting from food.
- Try different kinds if needed Partial fasts, a meal fast, or a non-food fast can all serve the same heart posture: setting aside a good gift to seek the Giver.
Keep it in its place
Fasting does not twist God’s arm. It trains your affections. When hunger hits, let it push you to prayer: “Father, I want you more than this.” Then return to ordinary feasting with gratitude.
Rewritten for Kingdom Men beginners from themes in David Mathis / Desiring God. See “A Guide to Christian Fasting” (Desiring God).