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What is the correct way to fast? How long should I fast? |
Q. What is the correct way to fast? How long should I fast? (Submitted by: Valarie) A. Proper fasting requires a person to humble oneself before God. The word for fast in the Hebrew is "sum", pronounced sumay, which means to cover the mouth. Fasting means that NO food or drink enters the mouth. Ezra 10:6 shows this example, "Then Ezra rose up from before the house of God, and went into the chamber of Johanan the son of Eliashib: and when he came thither, he did eat no bread, nor drink water: for he mourned because of the transgression of them that had been carried away." (Ezra 10:6, KJV) Proper fasting means to afflict the soul so that one can get closer to God and learn to turn to Him for all of our needs. The most common length of time for fasting is one day or 24 hours. This example comes from Leviticus 23:27 : "And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying; Also on the tenth day of this seventh month there shall be a day of atonement: it shall be an holy convocation unto you; and ye shall afflict your souls, and offer an offering made by fire unto the LORD." (Leviticus 23:27, KJV) God wants people to fast periodically so that they will desire, through the hunger brought on by the fast, him to be a part of their life. If we turn to Him with fasting He will respond with spiritual and physical blessings. Here is an example from the scriptures: "Therefore also now, saith the LORD, turn ye even to me with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning: And rend your heart, and not your garments, and turn unto the LORD your God: for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and repenteth him of the evil. Who knoweth if he will return and repent, and leave a blessing behind him; even a meat offering and a drink offering unto the LORD your God?" (Joel 2:12-14, KJV) Fasting is a tremendous tool and it is a fantastic way to lay our sins before God and come to repentance. Other Recommended Bible Study Materials:
Answer Given By: Wayne Stenhouse |
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